The Year It Was 2007

Taken from Postsecret.com

It's a few more hours before this year ends. After i'm done typing this entry, i would be resting for awhile before i head down to church for the watch night service.

Looking back at 2007, there are a few highlights; happenings in my life. And here they are in no particular order:

1.Getting involved with UTAR activities
Besides being involved in the Christian Fellowship since i entered UTAR, i've been involved in other activities, events and societies as well.

This year, i was in the Talent Night Committee as well as The UTAR Ball Night Committee, holding my post in the recruitment department. Spent many late hours in the campus with friends while we prepared for the event. Many fun memories were built through those practices, perparations and late night supper.


2.Bass guitar
Like many other bassists i know, i finally got one myself - a bass guitar. Got it from my friend Ryo for about RM500+. Named Jazzabell, she served me well, but didn't get to jam a lot when i broke my arm.

But will try my best to jam with her as often as possible in church. Thinking of joining a band. Any band out there in need of a bassist?


3.Shifted
Nothing big, but i shifted to a bigger room, and i have my own TV in my room. I can stay here the whole day!


4.broken my arm

One of the turning point of my life. After being knocked by a little-speed-demon while going out of dinner, i entered the hospital through an ambulance for the first time in my life.

The broken right humerus left me disabled and incapable of performing many daily tasks, but i learnt to appreciate not only how important both my hands, but gave me a chance to use my left hand more often. But not really ambidextrous yet.

Also, i discovered that this pain in my right arm reminds me that i'm alive.

5.Mr & Mrs Yap

It was an honour to be part of Justin's and Sher-Mayne's wedding by being one of the groomsmen. The wedding was fantastic and was like out of a fairy tale.

To the both of them, will they have many, many great adventurous years ahead of them!

6.Thesis
Yup, i've finally written my very own thesis. Entitled "The Perception of College/University Undergraduates Towards The New Content of theSun Newspaper", i did it as part of my course, and i'm proud i chose that topic. Though, if i were given a chance to improve it, i would do it better.

Nonetheless, you reap what you sow - and i'm content with what Dr Carmen, my supervisor graded me.


7.Graduated

Crazy Jrians, when we were freshmen

Finally, after three years in pursuing the course, and five years in UTAR (inclusive of the Two Missing Years), i'm finally out of that place with a degree in Journalism.

Not only did i gain a whole bunch of friends, but with them, many fun experiences and memories with these group of crazy people. Everything from the lame jokes we shared and mamak sessions we had to the many hours spent together getting a last-minute assignment done. It seemed like yesterday when it all happened. And today, most of us contribute to the statistic of those 'graping' in the country's workforce.

Happy days.


Crazy Jrians as seniors


8.Hosting a Party
Posted an entry about this HERE. But below are some photos taken on that night.








9.Lessons
It's either you learn it the easy way, or the hard way. This is what i personally believe. And for me, i get through life learning things the hard way, and many a times, these things could be avoided if i had choose the right thing. But we humans are anything but perfect, fallen from ordinary.

Yeah, many lessons i learnt costed me a lot, but i would steer away from repeating them in the future, i hope.


"I've faced my demons
Wrestling these angels to the ground
And all that I could find
Was a thin line between
All the saints and villains
it was crossed in my own mind

Someday I'm gonna find it
Wish I knew what I was looking for
Inside the disarray (inside the disarray)
I woke up this morning
Don’t know where I’m going
But it’s alright
I wouldn't have it any other way"

Excerpt from Lifehouse's Disarray

In the end, even if i failed to find myself by this year, there is always next year. I may wake up every morning with the ache in my arm - but at least i get to see the next day. Afterall, self-discovery is a life-learning process.

Let's welcome 2008 with an postive mindset and open arms.

Another one from Postsecret.com

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Staring Blankly (Go): Going There Again.

There's just too little time left before the new year arrives.

I had some time to ponder about things that have happened in the past. Things i could have avoided and things i should have done. Played the scenario one time too many, and i wonder if it would turn out the way i'm pleased with.

Up to now, i could not really understand (or least see) my purpose; what i really want. What is my purpose being me? It seems like i'm just moving with the path life paved for me. But can i get out of it and make my own way?

I accept the fact that whatever God does, He has His reason(s), and it is for our own benefit. We may not be able to comprehend His plan for us, but it's for our own good. Yes, i can't see it, yet.

Sometimes, i wonder if i can turn back, and look for him. And will He be there too?


Jack: I've been flying a lot. That golden pass that they gave us, I've been using it. Every Friday night I fly from Los Angeles to Tokyo, or Singapore, or Sydney. And I get off and I have a drink, and then I fly home.

Kate: Why?

Jack: Because I want it to crash, Kate. I don't care about anybody else on board. Every little bump we hit, or turbulence, I actually close my eyes and I pray that I can get back."

Kate: This is not going to change.

Jack: No, I am sick of lying. We made a mistake.

Kate: I have to go. He's going to be wondering where I am.

Jack: We were not supposed to leave.

Kate: Yes we were. Bye, Jack.

Jack: We have to go back, Kate!

Taken from Lost, (Through the Looking Glass, Part 2)

But nonetheless, regardless of circumstances, i must move forward in order to evolve and grow.

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Pictures of Me Tag.

A photo tag from Megan. Here are the damages:


*Last picture taken of yourself.

*taken by?
Yen Yen

*When was it taken?
Towards the end of November this year.


*A picture of you with your friends


*When was it taken?
In June or July 2007.

*Who are they?
My classmates - 1st row (l-r): Nicolette, Chiew Mei, Hoi Yen, Lily, Eu Wah, Chin Han and I-Ling
Back row (l-r): Alex, Soo Yee, Chee Been, Me, Yen Yen, Pek Mei, Grace and Wing Hooi.


*A picture of you in a fitting room
None, i don't camwhore myself, whatmore in a fitting room.

*Where was it?
Nowhere.

*A picture of you with Christmas tree or Christmas deco

*Where was it?
My house at my Christmas/Farewell Party.


*A picture of you doing peace sign
I don't do the peace sign.

*A picture of you in B&W


*A picture of you in school uniform ( if graduated, get it from your report card)
None

*A picture of you doing weird things

*what were you doing?
I was behind the lecture hall; posing like a hot babe-magnet in the middle of Online Journalism lecture, while other groups were presenting their assignments.

*A picture of you wearing pink
Pink isn't my colour at all!

*A picture of you wearing black


*A picture of you wearing orange


*A picture of you wearing red


Who should i tag? I personally believe people shouldn't go through what i did, beside the fact most of my friends don't put up pictures. Thus, i end the blog here. If you want to do this tag, do tell me, ok?

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Dashing Through (The Rain).

Reindeers, Santa Claus and gifts in shining wraps and a fancy ribbon.

I'm not the kind of person who really 'commercially' celebrate Christmas on December 25. This year, i spent my Christmas staying at home, watching TV, surfing the Internet, resting and had dinner with my family in the night.

Though, i did hosted and attended a dinner party before Christmas. Happy days.

Well, what i've got so far for Christmas was a shirt, a box of cookies, a t-shirt, a book thong (it's a bookmark. Seriously), (another) bookmark, a candle and a bar of chocolate. And not forgetting a bunch of Christmas SMS greetings. But no Christmas cards. Perhaps many are environmentally-friendly citizens who can afford to see another tree manufactured into a cheap-Hallmark greeting card!

But still, the celebration is done in honour of the show's main star, Jesus Christ - The Greatest Gift of all Gifts. The one who came down to earth and die for sinners like us. Let us not forget about that.

Well, hope you all had a blast during Christmas. And i bet there are those at sitting at flood relief centres singing 'I'm dreaming of a (dry) Christmas' at this time of the year.

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Hosting and Partying!

It was the first time ever - me hosting a party.

Never really had a reason to, but since i've graduated (yes - unofficial, i'm out of UTAR!) with my classmates, it would only be fitting to have a farewell/Christmas party before everyone go their separate ways.

The party had the usual routine - food, small talks, and gossips. But we also had the 'JR Awards' ceremony, which was a way of appreciating our classmates with a series of categories in both the wall of fame and shame.

I was nomitated for many positive categories and won three awards, including 'the-one-with-the-funniest-jokes' and 'the-one-with-the-best-temper'. I also nominated myself for the 'messiest-person' in the wall of shame. But the night's winner was Chin Han, who won a total of six awards. And it's an oxymoron that he won both 'the-most-responsible-person' and 'the-one-who-does-not-fulfill-one's-promise'.

Gift exchange times was great too. I think many enjoyed their gifts, ranged between RM10-20. Chee Been and i got each other's gift: He a t-shirt while i got a tin of Famous Amos cookies!

And i believe Pek Mei was not too thrilled about her gift.

Here we are with our gifts we received.

There were a lot of leftovers. Like Joo, who wasn't feeling well at that time, pointed out - the pizza, fried chicken, two types of potato salads, sandwiches and fried beehoon are the main dishes. But there wasn't many heavy eaters around to finish them.

And we didn't get to play my newly-purchased Taboo. *sigh*

But all in all, we enjoyed ourselves. Will post up more photos later.

On Sunday, i was Mrs Tan's party with Pek Mei, Alex and Woon. Our Broadcasting Journalism lecturer/tutor invited us, and i still can't believe that i woke up late for it!

Fortunately, like my party, there were lots of food when both Pek Mei and i arrived. The party comprised mostly of Mrs Tan's relatives. One of them joked about us UTAR graduates (yes, graduates!) helping lower the average age of all the guest at the party! But we still managed to have a ball eating turkey and pizza (again) while talking about everything about studies and exams to work and our future plans.

We left the place about 1 plus, but not without a gift from Mrs Tan and her family.

And i believe Pek Mei might not too thrilled about her gift.


In the end, i learnt that organizing or/and hosting a party is no easy task. Thus, many appreciation to any of you who have either organized a party or open your house to other.

But hey, isn't this the season to be jolly? Falalalala lalalala

Blessed Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Staring Blankly Cuatro: Questions Unanswered

"The world isn't perfect, and the law is incomplete. Equivalent Exchange doesn't encompass everything that goes on here. But I still choose to believe in its principle: that all things do come at a price. That there's an ebb, and a flow, a cycle. That the pain we went through did have a reward and that anyone who's determined and perseveres will get something of value in return, even if it's not what they expected."

—Alphonse Elric, Fullmetal Alchemist

There is a box in one corner of my head. It sits there, collecting dust in the dark as i just stare at it from afar. It's almost full, containing a tonne of questions left unanswered. But i wonder if i should open the box now.

I may know the answers to these questions. I might dislike it or perhaps its unexpected. It's a fear for me - a darkness that creeps up into my soul. Maybe all i needed was closure.

A good friend told me, the best thing to do is to ask the one who knows - He who knows everything. I swore i almost broke to tears when i heard that over lunch that Sunday.

Till now, the box is left untouched.

But if i can't open that box, neither can i open her letter. Then, i might not be able to see him before the year ends. Or can i face Him.


I know that I'll move on, I tell myself
I'll find me something better
I'll let go and just forget her

She was no good for me
Deep down I know that's the way it has to be so
How come I still can't open this letter
I can't forget her...

Taken from The Letter by James Morrison

Love & Peace!~

BC?

The Rojak Series #15

With a lot going on this month, perhaps this would be my last TRS for the year. So, let it roll:

1.Unbalanced Sleeping Hours
With the exams going on, i've either been sleeping too little hours a night/day, or too long a night.

Well, even now, this has been affecting my internal clock, and i can't seem to sleep during regular hours. Should readjust myself after tomorrow's paper, which will be my last.


2.Congratulations, Mr & Mrs Yap
Yes. Both Justin and Sher-Mayne were married last Saturday, and i was the groomsman, along with Edwin, while Kevan was the best man.

It couldn't be a more perfect day, with the fine weather and what i believe to be the most heart-warming wedding. If there was a wedding where most of the men (read: Justin, Kevan and myself) tried their best to hold back and swallow their tears, this would be it.

Oh, and dinner was superb. Heard that the wine was excellent, which led to some undesired commotions at the dining hall. And the cupcakes were good.

The happy couple are currently on their honeymoon in Bali, Indonesia. Looking forward to meeting up with them soon.

And i hope to get the pictures from Sher-Mayne soon.


3.Small Battles Won
For the two subjects i took this semester, i manage to score the highest marks in Online Journalism in my class (and perhaps in the whole lecture as well) and for the group assignment for Broadcasting Journalism too! I feel like i'm on top of the world.

I know i'm an above average student; thus, this is really fulfilling for me. I don't care if i can achieve an A for the subject - as long as i did well for my assignments, that's enough for me. Plus, with all the stress and troubles that came along with it, i did enjoy doing the assignments!

Now, i hope the B+ for my thesis is maintained... i reap what i sow.


4.Farewell, Crazy Jrianz
After studying together for the past three years, it's sad to have to say goodbye to my dear classmates; who went through good and bad times together and shared many pleasant memories with.

After the last paper on Thursday (what i'm sitting for tomorrow is the paper that i'm resitting due to the accident in April), Nic gave us a potrait picture of the class, and bottles with messages from (most of) the classmates.

Up to today, i've read through half of the messages. And in a nutshell, they call me nice, funny, fun to be with, gentlemen, among other things.

Cool. And this leads me to the next point....


5.Up-coming Party
I'll be hosting a farewell/Christmas party for my classmates this Tuesday at my house. This might be the last time i'll be seeing them.

There would be food, games and gift exchange. Hopefully, it would turn out well.


6.Back to the Bass-line
Yup, it's my first time playing the bass guitar in church after the accident, not to mention my first time playing in the new premise.

But it could be my last time playing bass guitar... this year. Looking forward to playing bass in the future, and i have a lot of practice to catch up on.


7.Movies
This month, i've watched two movies. Star Dust, and later I Am Legend. Watched the later with Alex, Joanne Lee and Pek Mei after Online Journalism's paper.

I would say Star Dust is an interesting love story, which managed to tie a lot of holes stated in the beginning. And if you aren't keen of seeing Robert DeNiro being queer and soft, avoid this movie at all cost. But in a nutshell, it was worth my every sens spent.

And the same would be said about I Am Legend, though Joanne Lee didn't really like it. From what i read online, the movie and original novel has a totally different ending, given the scenario and the timeline. Thus, turning the original, tragic novel-ending into a heroic, hopeful ending for the movie.

Will try watching Children of Men, which stars Clive Owen and Michael Caine, as recommended by Joanne Lee.


8.Coming to an end
Yup, we're heading about two weeks plus towards the end of the year. What have you done? What have i done?

I just hope i can find him before the year ends.

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Christmas Tag.

I got tagged by Jolene Koh, and i'm just continuing the tradition.

Rules:
Each player of this game writes about his/her Christmas wishes. People who get tagged need to visit your blog to find out more, and then write about the same topic in their blogs. Player must state the rules clearly, and pass this on by tagging the same number of people. To tag someone, leave a comment in his/her blog and tell them that they have been tagged. Number of blogger to tag: up to you.

Now, my personal wish list for Christmas.

1) A new, lighter and powerful notebook
2) The Black Sony Walkman MP3 player
3) New pair of cool spectacles
4) A new car (!)
5) To lose weight in the next six months (again)
6) Snow in Malaysia (now, to get all those rain coming here recently to freeze up)
7) To get my muse back
8) World Peace?

I’m tagging:
-Cheong Keen
-Dewgem
-YiHueih
-Megan
-John Rueben
-Sui Li
-Pek Mei
-Alex Hooi

Oh... just realized that we're coming close to the new year and closer to Christmas. Not to mention Justin & SherMayne's wedding in less than 24 hours time. Time does fly really fast!

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Uncertainities and Mistakes

I learnt a few valuable lessons recently. That pride comes before a downfall and we should not be too comfortable wherever we are.

I did a very big blunder yesterday and a very careless mistake which could cost dearly, not only to me, but to others around me. Seriously, the whole issue has been weighing down on me these pass few days, and the recent incident added more burden than it already is.

And why shouldn't we be too comfortable in our own zone/situation? From my experience, this could go away as simple as it comes. And that's when we lose control and panic. In a way, i'm going through this situation.

Talking about comfort zone, this forward came into my inbox not too long ago. Entitled Comfort Zone, it caught my attention, and i would like to share it with you readers;

About 10 years ago, I started a job as a trainer for a
Telemarketing agency. In one of my first classes the head
trainer told a very motivating story that I would like to
share with you.

He began by drawing a diagram of a stick man standing in the
middle of a circle. To make it more interesting, he drew things
like a house, a car, and a few friends inside the circle.

He asked the question "Can anyone tell me what this is?" In a
long silence, one guy decided to throw out "the world?" The
trainer said "That's close, this is your Comfort Zone. Inside
your circle you have all the things that are important to you.
Your home, your family, your friends, and your job. People feel
that inside this circle they are safe from any danger or conflict.

"Can anyone tell me what happens when you step out of this circle?"
A strong silence came over the room. The same eager guy abruptly
announced "You are afraid". Another guy said "You make mistakes".
The silence continued and the trainer smiled and said "When you
make mistakes what can the result be?" The first guy shouts "You
learn something."

"Exactly, you are learning." The trainer turned to the board and
drew an arrow pointing from the stick man directly to the outside
of the circle. He proceeded to say "When you leave your Comfort
Zone you put yourself out there, in front of the world to be in
a situations that you are not comfortable with. The end result is
that you have learned something that you did not already know,
you expand your knowledge to become a better person." He turned
again to the board and drew a bigger circle around the original
circle, and added a few new things like more friends, a bigger
house etc.

"The moral of the story is that if you stay inside your Comfort
Zone you will never be able to expand your horizons and learn.
When you step out of your Comfort Zone you will eventually make
your circle bigger, to challenge your mind and grow to be stronger,
and all in all a better person."

However it is, our future is uncertain. Whatever goof-up i did, a price has to be paid, even if it's a heavy one. But i suppose i'm responsible for it. Thus, it make sense if i paid it.

And this is from a person who does not have anything to look forward to everytime the sun rises.

Love & Peace!~

BC?

A Prayer: All in All

A prayer... for those who will be sitting for exams soon.
Examination period is coming soon. And books and notes will be opened and dust will be flying - a lot. And the tonnes of midnight oil burning would definitely contribute to the increase in petrol next year.

A prayer... for those who are in the midst of completing their final year project
Especially those in my batch, classmates and various courses alike. The clock is ticking as the day of evaluation and marking draws closer than you can say 'literature review'.

A prayer... for those who are ill and unwell
The flu is making its way around those who are revising and not. Stress and many, many tasks to accomplish may be among the factors why one would fall sick now. Oh, not forgetting the others who stay up burning the oil.

A prayer... for those who are moving on to the next step in life
Not only the ones who (hopefully) would graduate from the university, but to those who have finish taking SPM and PMR examination. What is your next step? Do you have a plan? Can you relax now? Three among the multitude of questions going through one's head now.

A prayer... for those who are under spiritual attack
When there's too much pressure in life, one's spiritual life is at stake... and the Devil would conviently take this opportunity to mess one's life. Do beware and prayer-ful.

A prayer... for those who believes there's no hope as the sun shines on tomorrow
And when one feels messed up and everything doesn't go one's way, a sense of hopelessness arise. A lie from the Devil, keeping us away from what God has promised His children - a life of great abundance.

A prayer... for those who are weary
Refer to the statements above (read: redundancy). This would refer to me. But if you feel like you belong here, join the club.

A prayer... let's all pray.

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Staring Blankly Ternion: Paths Chosen

"Humankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return. To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. That is alchemy's First Law of Equivalent Exchange. In those days, we really believed that to be the world's one, and only, truth."

- Alphonse Elric

From Hiromu Arakawa's anime/manga Fullmetal Alchemist

There are times, one would step out of the light and dive into darkness. One must remove any doubt and fear as they chose to go down the path of light or darkness. No matter which route is chosen, these routes are paved with uncertainty.

Like Riku of Kingdom Hearts, swallowed by the darkness of the Heartless. Or Bleach's Tousen Kaname, who followed the heretic path in his defence of justice.

I, in a way, believe in the Equilavent Law.

I believe that there are things you should lose, even if it cost you dearly, in order to gain something else, which surprisingly unexpected.


"My power has grown faint. You probably could have beaten me without transforming into hollow form, but you were nice enough to go all-out for me, even though you knew it would exhaust you.

"You have my gratitude.

"And now, i will do what i can to thank you. Those who exist from this point onwards aren't as sweet as i am.

"Don't be irresolute when you slash down the enemy.

"Never hesitate in dealing the killing blow.

"And more than anything else, do not heal their wounds. Such acts are unspeakable, nino!

"Leave your chocolate here, AND BECOME A DEMON, NINO!~

"Just as strong as a demon, and just as wicked.

"You must realise that the only way to stand up to the coldhearted... is to become coldhearted yourself.

"Because if you don't, NINO.... "

- Dordonii Alessandro Del Socacchio

From Kubo Tite's manga Bleach (Chapter 254: Leave The Chocolate Here)

But is it worth the cost?

I believe, in order to find something greater, we need to embark on this journey headstrong. But one should remember to walk down the twilight path to the shining dawn ahead. Or risk being lost in darkness forever?


"...Baptized in the river
I've seen a vision of my life
And I wanna be delivered
In the city with the sinner
I've done a lot of things wrong
But I swear I'm a believer
Like the prodigal son
I was out on my own
Now I'm trying to find my way back home..."

Excerpt from The River by Good Charlotte

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Smoke in Your Eyes: The Hindraf gathering

Tear gas being shot metres away from me, came down like - i saw it with my own eyes as i was on my way to church this morning.

Yes, my church is along Jalan Ampang, and if you're unaware, it's where the Hindu Rights Action Force (HINDRAF) gathered to hand some petition to the British High Commission earlier today.

I pity those the crowd who had to run away coughing from the tear gas, as i drove passby them and headed to church. I personally believe that they could have done better to not hurt those people.

But then, there are demonstrators who did damaged public property, throw rocks at cars and not to mention liter the roads. Can they be a little more responsible?

Oh, do click HERE to view the video of the demonstration.


A couple of hours ago, i got an SMS from my friend, which states the following:

Riot in kl very bad.
Latest news, 3 reportd died.
Pls pray 4 mercy n self control.
Pass 2 all in Kl...

Followed by a bunch of Chinese characters which i (a banana) can't read. But it clearly has to do with danger.

Trying to verify this info i checked online, and while doing so, PoliceWatchMalaysia.com stated that a 20-year-old boy died in after the gangsters attacked him.


IF the agitated crowd did not dispurse by 2pm just now, tension could have built up. Went i arrived at Ampang Point, i could feel the tension between the police and the demonstrators. And even one false sneeze could have triggered chaos - ergo, we would have another Kampung Medan incident at hand.

Scary.

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Writer's Rights: Are they doing the right thing?

It was only when i watching the rerun of the recent American Music Awards, that i realised that there's a writers strike happening in America.

This is what i got from sun2surf.com

Economic costs mount from Hollywood writers strike
LOS ANGELES (Nov 22, 2007): The Hollywood writers strike against major studios will cost at least US$21 million a day in television production spending alone and idle 10,000 workers if it lasts much longer, experts said on Wednesday....

Click HERE to read more

And this is another arctile regarding the recent writers strike:

"A 5-year-old boy revealing the little-known connection between superheroes and the Hollywood writer's strike. A 94-year-old writer, with a resume dating back to the Marx Brothers, explaining why he supports his union. And a look at what the cinematic world would be like if professional writers weren't around to create it.

Hollywood's writers might be on strike, but that hasn't stopped their creative juices from flowing. True, their efforts aren't being channeled into episodic television or movie scripts. But the established media's loss is the Internet's gain...."

Click HERE for the full story.

Hopefully, all things can reach a proper settlement. I personally believe that these writers should get paid properly. Series like House, Lost and Heroes have great writers, with many witty one-liners. And shouldn't they be getting their just dessert?

Curiously, how would these people picket? I imagine them going around the companies, and holding up signs like so:

"*(%#Q(*&#Q(^))"
"more money Need. understand you?"
"____ ___ fill in the blanks!"
"Better pay = better scripts"
"Writer's rights are right"

On another note, it's great to know that Casting Crown won the award for the favourite artiste in the contemporary inspirational category.

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Know your rights.

If you're one who lives by the motto 'Customers are always right' or is curious about what your rights as a consumer, you're reading the right post.

I got this email from a friend a couple of hours ago, and it caught my attention. Anyway, i would like to share this with you:


Legal Issue on Contract Law in Malaysia

This is something I like to share with you from one of my seminar recently. If you find this informative, pls circulate. It was conducted by A/P Catherine Tay on Legal issues in E-commerce.

Notice that most of the time, the receipt / invoice you received from the merchant carries this exclusion clause or similarly worded statement: "Goods sold are not returnable" or "No refund once sold".

The thing that I have learnt from her is that : "As long as your good is purchased for home use and not for business (i.e. to be resold), the above exclusion clause is VOID.

That means, as long as the good is defective, regardless of what is worded, you CAN get back all your money spent . You do not have to accept a repair on the good or an exchange. You CAN ask for a refund. AND you are LEGALLY right and entitled to! What a relevation!!

And most of the time the merchant will refuse to return you your money.

Her advice? From her own experience ( and no less than 7 and all successful!), she will threaten the merchant with four words: "SEE YOU IN COURT!"

The court here refers to the Small Claims Tribunal Court.

However, you don't have to tell them what court! All you have to pay is RM10 admin fee and the loser (the merchant) will have to refund you the money PLUS the admin fee!

She shared this with us because she felt that even educated people are cowed by such unfair wordings (which includes her jaded friends who are not lawyers).

Pls try not to let the merchant fleece you the next time you have a defective good.

I know where to file this. On the 16th floor of Putra Place (The Mall opposite Putra World Trade Centre) . The form cost RM5.00. The Tribunal will settle within 2 months period.

Tribunal Tuntutan Pengguna Malaysia,
Tingkat 16, Putra Place,
100, Jalan Putra,
50622 KUALA LUMPUR
Tel: 03 - 40492300 / 40424181 Fax: 03 - 40424259


I'm not really sure how true this is. I'm finding the authencity of this fact. Could anyone help me check this fact out, please?

But if this is true, i would love to go to the cashier with my damaged good, point my finger and arrogantly say "I SUE YOU!"

Love & Peace!~

BC?

The Rojak Series #14

I just realised that i have not been doing TRS for a very, very long time. For your information, TRS is an entry which comprises a few short entries that happened for a certain span of time.

So, let TRS roll!

1. The Needful Things

Clothes, shelter and food; the three essentials need every human being must have to live. We need them.

On Monday, my handphone was sitting all by itself as i drove off to school. It wasn't until i wanted to contact Dr Carmen, my thesis supervisor, that i realised that it wasn't with me. And it was cumbersome since i was expecting some calls and i needed to make some as well.

To my horror, when i got back home at about 9, there were a dozen missed calls and more than five messages on my mobile. I then realised how dependent we are towards technology.

Almost everyone of my age range that i know has at least one, non-sophisticated mobile with them. And to some, it has become a lifeline in any imaginable situation. And i might be in this cluster.

Perhaps now, there are four needs in life - clothes, shelter, food and a mobile phone.... But wait, there's also the Internet and television. Shall we label them needs number five and six?


2. Recording Is Fun

As part of our Broadcast Journalism assignment, we were asked to take videos and make news. And video recording is fun. The process of taking it and later editing it is fun!

Broadcasting students must have been having a ball for awhile. But with the deadline approaching fast, my group needs to hurry up and get it done. Hopefully, we can enjoy ourselves doing it till the end.


3.Impulsive Buying

Just this week itself, i bought two shirts and a hoodie. But the best bargain was the hoodie.

I actually found it when i was trying out the first shirt i bought in a warehouse sale near UTAR PD block on Monday night. It attracted me and without thinking, showed it to Yen Yen, Pek Mei and Alex and later enquired the price. When the sales person told me the price, i myself was shocked.

Mind you, it's a GAP hooded sweatshirt! And it costed for a ridiculously low price of RM15. Yes, not RM50 or RM150, it's fifteen ringgit only! Indeed a buy.

I got the second shirt from Crazeecausa in Sg Wang for RM15, when i was out celebrating Grace's birthday there with some of my classmates.

All in all, i spent about RM60. I would not want to press the Impulse Button again. Only my wallet can stop me from spending any further.


4.November 30

In about three weeks' time, i would have to submit my thesis by then. Looks like i really have to pull up my socks and keep up to my schedule.

This deadline has driven most of my classmates crazy - many ending up being edgy. And that's without the stress from the assignments and lecture notes we have to read up.

5. Good news i

Congratulations to Mr Zachary Roland, who just got married yesterday. Pek Mei, Alex and i along with some other lecturers and staff were among the students invited by our Advertising lecturer to both the wedding and the dinner. It was good.

Many blessed days and experience to the newly weds.


6. Good news ii

I'm all happy inside, yet i have to keep it a secret. I can't really expose this for now, but what i can say is that i might not be seeing the world of journalism for about four years or so.

But perhaps this is God's hand paving my future. Perhaps.

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Scenes from the Camp

Anyway, if any of you readers are curious about the camp, here are the long awaited pictures from the camp:

This is Highland Christian Centre in Tanah Rata, where the whole UTAR CF camp was staged, campers ran wild, fun activities were held and blustery weather got the better of most people.

DUMC's Pastor Chris Kam, our camp speaker, got his birthday celebrated up in Tanah Rata with us. An honour indeed to have such person in our midst, despite being able to have his own birthday with his family.

Caterpillar. This is one game that should be categoried under "Unplayable Games", where i shall never, ever again think of putting it into my list of games to play. Neither should others be tormented, have their t-shirts pulled and dignity shred again.

Here are some examples of what we did in the workshop - creatively penning down our names, designing a tombstone for ourselves and creating our vision in life.

Here are the workshop product of mine (left) and Joshua Chin's. This jolly, bubbly dude was my workshop partner in camp.

I can't believe i got to meet many wonderful creatures in this cool place! Especially this beetle, which is big. One of the nights, Angeline was running on emotions as one as this beetle landed too close to her. And she screamed and jumped, asking me to control my pet. Honestly, i wish i could control them!

As much as i love bugs, i couldn't get over my fear of fluttering moths for the longest time i could remember. However, this fear was overcome in camp, which was an achievement for me. I'm less afraid, if not fearless, to pick up moths from the floor now!

The camp photo with (most of) the campers in it. No points for guessing where i am.

It was suddenly foggy moments before we started travelling down to KL. With the rain, we were cautious for our lives as the bus could have slip and roll over from the edge and we ending up going home instead... if you get my drift.

As we were heading home, the campers can't get enough of Choh Dai Di, as seen in the picture here with the master gambler Desmond and David. I was suppose to join them, but i was soundly sleeping all the way down to KL. The chilli effect had worn out by then.

And i need to prepare my vision and mission statement for pastor. But what can be produced of one who has neither plans nor dreams?

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Take Back Your Time Day: Something EVERYONE wants!

Deja vu, as again, i heard another interesting day over the radio. The same deejays were talking about it.

Once again another day has been observed, and it's called 'Take Back Your Time Day'. Held on October 24, people are encouraged to either take the day off or carve out some time for themselves, preferably spent with friends in congenial surroundings. In layman's words, it's a day to just relax and do the important things.

How often do we get too engrossed in our daily routine that we forget things which are important to us; family, friends and entertainment?

If i wanted to post this entry up last week, but i got to caught up with work. And again, i wish i could actually post this up on time.

If given to get my time back, i would want those two years that i could not get back again. Some readers know about that.

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Boss's Appreciated.

Today, what the deejays talked over the radio caught my attention. Well, Secretary's Day is somewhat common, but have you heard of Boss's Day?

Yes, such day exist and the deejays chatter about it over the air. And the best part is, this event is celebrated... today! Every Oct 16 since the 1960s. The whole celebration is basically done to thank corporate superiors for being kind and fair throughout the year. Click HERE for more details.

I guess many readers can relate to this celebration as their still studying. But i'm not surprise if those who are working are quietly murmering as they reminiscing they encounter with their own boss.

But you don't have to be own your own business or be have employees to celebrate it - just go to any mamak stall and call out to the workers there. They'll sincerely call you boss and serve you (and you can call him boss as well!)

Taiko, enjoy!

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Novenus.

I'm too distant from being fine
Life and death blurred the line
Troubles wallowed through but humbles mine
The life i lived until now
Inner screams shouts silently every hour
There is nothing's left, nothing's right
Lost the guidience in the light
As darkness flows into my eye
I miserably miss you every time.

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Thinking Green: A Blog Action Day Entry.

In the age of Internet and modern technology, we are taking things for granted. The environment and the resources available is what i'm arguing in this case....

Too often we just waste clean water and electricity when there are those struggling for drops of clean water or live through the night with candles. And sadly, recycling has not been implemented properly or widely taught (at least from where i am from).

And surprise, surprise; global warming is no myth to laugh about, as you can see how much it has affected the world's climate as compared to how it was decades ago.

Let's not just blame money-hungry companies in wasting their resources for profit's sake. I believe each of us should play a part in preserving nature, in anyway possible. After all, a little effort does go a long way.

You don't have to join some NGO to begin this. Switch off electric appliances when they're not in use. Keep the taps off as often as possible. Car pull when you can. Just keep your mind positively tuned to help the save the environment and you're on the right track.

Let's do our best to help protect Mother Nature. After all, we do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.

"They took all the trees, and put em in a tree museum
And they charged the people a dollar and a half to see them
No, no, no, don't it always seem to go
That you don't know what you've got till it's gone
They paved paradise, and put up a parkin' lot..."

Excerpt from Counting Crows' Big Yellow Taxi

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Purpose Driven Life: UTAR CF Camp 2007

It has been more than a week since the UTAR CF Camp, organized by us UTAR CF PJ campus committee. And boy, was it exhilarating!

Held in Highland Christian Centre in Tanah Rata, Cameron Highland, the camp was held from Oct 3 - Oct 6, 2007 with over 60 campers from all the four faculties in campuses in UTAR.

Pastor Chris, the camp speaker, led the workshop sessions; which were insightful. We talked a lot about tombstone, creating visions and mission statements and how we should live our lives by planning ahead. Morbid and taboo as it sounds, but death is something we should look forward to as we leave this earth for eternity. He advised us to prepare for life after death - eternity in heaven! After all, i remember someone telling me that there are two certainites in life; death and taxes.

it was a refreshing experience as this time, We had full workshop sessions instead of having both sermons and workshop in a camp. At least the campers get to participate most of the time. And most of the campers came to live when pastor started talking about boy-girl relationship issues during the last session of the camp.

Being held in Cameron Highlands, there were bugs, insects and more bugs everywhere. I did manage to get over my fear of fluttering moths. And unfortunately, discovered those who killed moths at the same time!

As i was in-charged of games and ice-breakers, i would say that i was under-prepared as i underestimated the time i had in preparing the games prior to camp and overestimated my own capabilities in executing them. Few glitches here and there, but in was a surprising outcome when many campers actually enjoyed the night game. They were excitingly running around and participating in the night game - detective solving-game via station games. It wouldn't happened that well if it wasn't for the cooperation between the committee members in executing the station games and the suspects acting out their roles sarcastically well!

As the last night was a sleep free night, some of us decided to skip sleeping time and continued playing cards till the break of dawn. I could barely keep my eyes open... until i ate breakfast. The burning, white label chilli sauce kept me awake for the next five hours up to the point we packed up and headed down for PJ. Then, i was sleeping like a baby on the way back for the next few hours.

My only regret is that i wish i had known the campers better then.

If i were to sum up the whole experience in a phrase, it would be eye-opening!

Whether i managed to find my muse again, it's a different story. But nonetheless, the camp was awesome!

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Two Days Up Ipoh.

As i'm typing out this entry, i'm trying my best to recuperate and get enough sleep from the trip Ipoh.

On Thursday, Cheong Keen, Dewgem, Jing Hau, Justin and i embark on a gastronomical trip to Ipoh with Joanne Lee guiding us around. We may have left PJ later than expected, but we did arrive in Ipoh city in time for tea.

We ate a lot. From fried kuey teow to chicken and bean sprouts and beef noodles to shaved ice with fruits and dim sum. It was all good and surprisingly affordable compared to the cost in KL (though the same can't be applied for the dim sum). Travelling in Ipoh in two cars, we got lost every once in awhile, but had much fun in gossiping talking with one another in the car as we searched for food.

On Friday, after the breakfast, both Dewgem and Justin left for Melaka, but not without tricking me into believing that the bus had left when instead it was delayed! Argh!

Uncle Lee, Joanne's dad was not only kind enough to spend the rest of us lunch in Chemor, but he's an excellent driver. While the four of us were asleep, he manage to manuver his cute little Kancil through the limited space when i accidentally blocked the car in front of his house. And he was just generous. My gratitude goes to him.

After two rounds of dinner and supper cum Cheong Keen's birthday celebration on Friday night, we went back to Joanne's place to pack up to head for KL. At 2am, we drove back and five hours later, i was in Setapak with Joanne at Rowen's place, droozy; after dropping off Cheong Keen and Jing Hau at their homes in Kepong and Cheras respectively.

In a nutshell, it was a good road trip, and hopefully, wouldn't be my last. I'll come back for more food next time. Many live the reverse motto, but i believe that 'we eat to live and not eat to live'.

Got to get some sleep now. Oh, and Selamat Hari Raya.

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Space: A New Frontier for Malaysia

"To infinity and beyond!" exclaims Buzz Lightyear of Star Command as he zooms to the space.

Now, the same phrase can be hollered by Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, Malaysia's first astronaut (or at least Malaysia Boleh!). This 35-year old doctor will be launched into space tonight at 9.22pm with two other astronauts from the Kazakhstan.

Apparently, Dr Sheikh will be studying of the effects of microgravity and space radiation on cells and microbes, as well as experiments with proteins for a potential HIV vaccine while he's up there. That's a giant leap for Malaysians everywhere!

For further reading on the news, click HERE.

Hopefully, he and the others would go up the space station and return back to earth safely.

Anyway, in the news article, it is stated that,

"...Shukor, 35, will bring a "symbolic" load of Malaysian food to the space station, said Zulkeffeli Mat Jusoh, a program director for the Malaysian space program."

If he's up there for 12 days, i suppose he'll be celebrating Hari Raya on the orbit around Earth. Plus, he'll be sharing some Malaysian goodies with the other astronauts (read: Durian.) I wonder if the wonderful stench of the fruit would ever trigger off the Level 3 Security System on the Space station?

But nonetheless, remember this - in space, no one can hear you scream.

"...And I think it’s gonna be a long long time
Till touch down brings me round again to find
I’m not the man they think I am at home
Oh no no no I’m a rocket man
Rocket man burning out his fuse up here alone..."

Taken from Elton John's Rocketman

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Work, Fun and More Work!

More than a week has passed since i sat for my last paper. Besides staying at home and help watch guard over the renovation being done in the house, i've been enjoying myself a little.

After the exam, a few of my classmates and i went to The Curve, though it ended up splitting into two groups; Pek Mei and me watching Evan Almighty and had dinner at TGI Friday after (and she still owes me money!) While Alex, Chee Been, Chin Han, Eu Wah, Soo Yee and Yen Yen enjoyed themselves singing all the way in Red Box. We met up later for a drink at Damansara Perdana before heading home.

But that wasn't the end.

On Thursday, we (except Chee Been and Pek Mei) went to Sunway Lagoon and had a great time in both the theme park and the water park. While the rest were terrified by the stomach-wrenching 360 degrees-spin ride, i got my dosage of adrenaline rush from all the excitement.

At the same time, i learn that i should wear sandles, dress light and carry less the next time i come by the amusement park.

And in between last week and this week, there was a whole lot of manga reading; notably XXXHolic, Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles, Trigun Maximum, Beck and Bleach!

On a brighter note, there're two things i'm currently thankful for:

1. I've passed all my papers, including the two resit papers! And now my thesis and CF camp duty can get my attention.

2. Deus ex machina came in the form of Ms Angelina! Receiving her call a couple of hours back was indeed uplifting and encouraging. Not to mention also the help she's offering the camp comittee.

I've got reasons to smile.

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Can You Help Others When You Can't Help Yourself?

Taken from postsecret.com

This evening, i was abruptly awaken by a phone call from a church member. Asking me how i was doing and if i had classes was the secondary reason. The whole reason she called was because she wanted me to talk to Sy (not real name. But if you get my drift, do keep this to yourself).

Oh... i heard from his mom in mid April that he was back from Australia. After telling her that my mobile phone number has not changed, i waited for Sy to drop me a line, or an SMS message. Nothing.

Anyway, fast forward to the present - the church member told me that Sy was bogged down with some problems. He has not been going out, staying a lot in his room and was objecting his parents demands. Not to mention, he's unemployeed.

But here's the catch; although Sy and i were classmates in high school, we weren't close after we SPM was over as we went our seperate ways. In actual fact, the friends closes to him in church have already left church quite sometime ago for the same, if not similar, reason(s).

Dropped by his blog recently, only to find out that he has not been blogging since the end of March, about the time he returned back to Malaysia.

In short, he's not doing as well as one would expect after graduation (like other friends i know of).

Personally, i find it hard to click with him now. To tell him what's been going on around me, like telling him that Justin's getting married, Ernest is now studying in Terengganu or even the church will be shifting out of Ampang Point.... Trying to chat with him would probably be step one all over again.

I wonder, if the Bible did state love your neighbour like you love yourself, does that mean it's okay to hate your neighbour if you hate yourself? Surely, many youths who dislike their body figure or current growing pains would, if not ponder, agree with me.

In a self-centered, cold world, aid comes with strings attached - an equal exchange for the help received. Of course, people would question why should they help someone without getting anything in return. But should they be the way? If no one decides to lend a helping hand and only expect something in return, selflessness will be a virtue loss.

Perhaps we should help others without expecting anything in return. It is a reward in itself. And maybe, such favor will be repay when the time comes.

I think i should do Sy a favor and drop him a visit.


"...I wake up after seeing the beginning of my dream
but i'll grasp what happens after that with my arms

Yes, the most important things are always
the ones with no form
Even if you obtain it or lose it,
you do not notice

So turn your sadness into kindness
And your uniqueness into strength
it's okay to get lost, so begin walking
once again..."

Taken and translated from Little by Little's Kanashimi wo Yasashisa ni

Love & Peace!~

BC?

A Sound Dilemma. (Ver 1.5)

After having in pocession two, cheap, unknown protable music devices (an MP3 and an MP4 player) for almost a year, i decided to spend a little more money on quality after my current iPod nano clone failed me. Two buttons going unresponsive was the last straw. That's when i went looking for information regarding branded MP3 players.

It's not like i'm going to grab another MP3 player immediately. My current MP4 player is now at being repair at the moment. But the defects it has prompted me to looking to a possible new MP3 player, anyway.

And from array of 2GB MP3 player available in our market, i found a few. And here are the potential wins:


1. Creative Zen Stone Plus

+ 2GB, 9.5 hours playback time
+ Has FM tuner
+ Interesting smooth peeble design
+ Blue OLED screen, which provides date, time and stopwatch display as well!
- plasitc-like look
- Can't find many places that sells this
- Price: RM269


2. Sony Walkman MP3 Player - NWD-B105B

+ 2GB, 12 hours playback time
+ Drag & Drop music transfer system (finally, someone listened!)
+ Voice recorder
+ FM Tuner
+ Easy USB connecivity
- No Sony ATRAC3 digital data compression format
- Price: RM299


3. Apple iPod nano 2GB

+ 2GB, 14 Hours playback time
+ It's an iPod!
- It's an iPod! (not a big fan of iPod as it is.)
- Price: RM329 RM499 (gasp!) The price previously stated is for iPod Shuffle.

Currently, i'm putting my investment in either the Creative or the Sony, both price-wise and brand preference. But we'll see if the prices would drop in a few months' time. However, i'm not too keen on the iPod, unless someone can convince me otherwise.

While that happens, i'm trying my best to be contented with my soon-to-be-repaired MP4 player.

Oh, and the MP3 player was collateral damage in the accidents a few months back, besides my right arm.

*sigh* Decisions, decisions and more decisions....


Love & Peace!~

BC?

Days to Come.

There's some many things going on nowadays, i wish i had 28 hours per day in my life. That, or reduce in sleep time for full recovery.

I still remember Ivan made an hilarious statement about sleeping - that it is great, but it just takes up to much time. HAHAHA!~ Ingenius.

Currently, i'm sitting for my finals for the semester. Including the two papers i'm resitting, that's six papers in all. And the last paper will be on Tuesday. Which is good, since i can relax more (although, now i'm just too relax as it is) and read more manga and watch animes! focus more on my final year project. And that will be due in about 70 days or so.

Next week, it'll be Justin's birthday. Thought of bring him to Chilli's along with Kevan and Sher-Mayne. But this surprise dinner is not confirmed yet. IF you're reading this Justin Yap, please play along and act surprise when i inform you about it.

And speaking of Justin, it's about 12 weeks more to his wedding, in wheich i'll be one of the groomsmen/ushers. *Whew*

And we're now heading towards the middle of September. And after the end of this month, three quarters of the 2007 would have just gone by just like that!

So much to do, so little time, so darn sleepy.


"I am a one way motorway
I'm the one that drives away
then follows you back home
I am a street light shining
I'm a wild light blinding bright
burning off alone

it's times like these you learn to live again
it's times like these you give and give again
it's times like these you learn to love again
it's times like these time and time again..."

Excerpt from Foo Fighters' Times Like These

Love & Peace!~

BC?

Staring Blankly Redux: The Scars

A scene from Trigun. Vash's here, seen with his body painted with scars, stitches, and wounds; the price he pays for not killing his opponents.



"I tear my heart open, I sew myself shut
My weakness is that I care too much
And my scars remind me that the past is real
I tear my heart open just to feel..."

Taken from Papa Roach's Scars

It's true that life isn't a bed of roses. Everyone has their own hell to go through, regardless if it's the Taoist type of levelled-hell or the fiery pits. The types of problems ranges from the minued we face day by day or things that loom from the past.

But the issue here is not what type of crap you're dealing with. Rather, who are those who are affected by your troubles?

Scars left behind from horrible incidents that went out of hand. The hurts the people closes to you gave. The memories burnt within the depths of consciousness. The pain....

Do you want drag them down to the hell you're going through? There are those who are willing to go through your sufferings with you, bearing every single tantrum and being by yourside. But they could be burnt by you if they're not sincere to be by yourside.

What do you do? Simple; you defeat your own demons.

It's stated in the bible to cast your burdens at the feet of the cross. It's because it's not something that you're meant to carry in your life.

That aside, i would want to defeat my own demons before i could bring comfort to those around me. I would rather cut my own arm than letting them be hurt by my own sins. And be alone, like the hedgehog and its dilemma.

The question is, would you rather remove the scars and memories of it away from you, living it out like a clean sheet of paper? Or keep them as a painful reminder, physically and emotionally, to what you were?

I wonder....

But it's okay to be shy about your scars once in awhile


"... He's... smiling?

"Goin' round and round tinkering dizzily all alone... saving so many... his scars and his troubles keeps adding up...

"... A true gunman... who's only looking at the bright side of life...

"Correct? Vash The Stampede."

- Nicholas D. Wolfwood,
taken from Yasuhiro Nightow's manga Trigun Maximum (Chapter 7: His Life as a....)



Love & Peace!~

BC?