My Better Half's Birthday

My better half,my significant other,the mother of my children,the grandma of my grandson,my love,my life,my dear wife celebrates her birthday today. Milah,you have been patient with me,the kids.You always stood by us when things are bad.You encouraged us with your unflinching support. We may not agree sometimes but I always see your point of view. Sometimes I feel helpless without you. On your birthday,I can't promise you expensive gifts.I can only promise you my utmost devotion,my endless love. The kids and I will forever be at your side throughout our lives. Have a nice birthday my dear.

Mykad

I saw this familiar looking lady on the 8pm news on TV3 last night.She was one of the last minute applicants for Mykad at the PJ Registration Office.Why last minute,sister ? Too busy ? I hope you didn't have to wait too long. My disabled son Fadzlil applied for his Mykad 2 weeks ago.For him it was plain sailing. No need to get a number.No need to queue up. Disables like him are given special priviledges. A path was cleared for him and his wheelchair and driver Fahmie.Thank you nice folks. The photographing and thumbprinting only took about 10 minutes.The officers were very helpful and understanding.Thank you JPN Kepala Batas. It was not like some of those horror stories going around about the hostile Registration Offices in some places. Government officials in small towns like Kepala Batas are more people friendly and tolerant than those officers in the main towns.

A year after Tsunami

One year ago,2004,a disaster hit our shores.The tsunami. The worst hit was North Sumatra (especially Bandar Acheh).The whole city was destroyed.150,000 people lost thir lives. 58 people died in Malaysia (in Penang,Kota Kuala Muda,Kedah,Pulau Langkawi) Most of the victims were picnickers and fishermen. Millions of ringgit were collected for the victims.So many pledges were made.Promising new boats for the fishermen,housing for those who lost their homes. They got shoddy houses .walls so thin you can hear the next door neighbour fart. Leaky roofs,poor sewerage system.This is in Kuala Muda. Fishermen were given outboard motors.I recall one fisherman saying.What good is an outboard motor if I dont have a boat.At least I can paddle it.You expect me to lug that motor on my back and swim out to sea to catch fish. It looks like aid has not been properly distributed.These people lost their livelihoods. Quickly give them their boats and nets. It also seems that those delegated to provide the aid have been aiding the undeserving spongers. CM Mahdzir and CM Tsu Koon better look in at this hanky panky in your states.

Losing a Language

Sometimes when I reread my posts I find that they are not so great. My narratives sound so bo..ring. Maybe because I was with the government.Everything was in BM. So my English suffered a bit.The news papers helped me to stay tuned to the language. My younger office mates couldn't string a decent English sentence. Some were proffessionals mind you.U Grads ! Hey even my kids can't converse properly in English.Peer influence ? Lousy education system,lousy English teachers. How could my kids be not fluent in English.Their mum (my Missus) wouldn't even try.She was Malay educated. I have conversed with my kids.They can but they are not that confident. They developed this phobia from their schools and school mates. You know,rural Malays like to ridicule those who speak English.Speaking London kunun. The kampung people will forever be under their coconut shell. When I meet my peers and siblings,our conversations slips naturally into English. Our children have also started to read and write English.Thanks to the Internet and tv. My sister used to write great essays in her younger days. My brother is a journalist and so is my bro in law.In English. I do not want my kids to be in a rut like their school and kampong mates.

Shahman's Birthday.

My 4th son,Shahman turns 19 today. A very big and husky young man.He towers over all of us. Now in his 2nd year at UniKL. Happy birthday Shahman from all of us. Be sure to study hard,work hard and don't neglect your health. Don't forget to pray every day. WE love you.

Qholiff's wedding Part Two

There's something about weddings and Raya .Those are the rare times when I get to meet my siblings and in-laws.Otherwise it is so hard to meet them.Unless I take the trouble to visit their parts of the world. I feel that I am the one who always `goes' but nobody comes unless it is Raya or something that they need me for. I don't mind,I understand,Why do I and my family have to live in this distant corner of the globe. Qholiff's wedding was such an occassion. Each time there is a wedding in the family,the whole family contributes thei part if not financially,at least with our sweat and support . Our family home in Brown Garden was the venue of Qholiff's wedding reception. Bro Fajar the local resident took charge of the tents and catering and the carpenters constructing the pelamin. Helinna was the conceptualist and finance manager. The theme this time is the Swinging Sixties.Colour theme light blue and gold. Music played will be Beatles era and Malay Pop Yeh Yeh stuff. Decorations : Mary Quant flower logos painted blue and gold,hanging and pasted in the house and in the tents.Jeni and cousin Rose produced the manila card flowers. The boys helped out in painting. The ladies will take care of the pelamin and its trimmings and relevant ornaments. The reception was held Saturday 17th December at 8.30pm. Our family seldom host a traditional type of wedding feast.(The one that goes on all afternoon from 12 to 6). 6 tents were raised all along the road right in front of our house and neighbours'. 3 more tents on the playground facing the house. 2 tents meant for the main table for the bridal couple and all their siblings and cousins. One tent set aside for a band presentation by Qholiff and cousins and the deejay. Izron and Fauziah started welcoming guests and relatives who started streaming in from 8 pm. The bridal couple were lead by the family kids in blue and gold.Girls in blue,boys in gold shirts followed by the bride's family.After the bersanding and merinjis,the kids and the bridal couple went to their special tent. While the guests dined Qholiff and his band boys,Aqil,Ayee and Ben started the musical session.First ,he dedicated a couple of songs for Maheran. When the grooving mood was set, the uncles,aunts and kids contributed their vocal talents.Maheran's family brought out their talents too. Maheran's parents Norma and Munir led the rest of the guests and family in a rousing joget. The session had to end at midnight,out of consideration to our tolerant neighbours. Ever since his injury,this was the first time that Fadzlil attended a wedding reception in Penang.He was always left behind with Fahmie. He thoroughly enjoyed himself. I could see that he was stressed out sitting on the wheel chair for such a long time. And my daughter Lina had to stay in the house all the time.She had mumps. As my two kids were getting uncomfortable ,we said our goodbyes. On my visit,the next day,they told me nobody slept until three a.m. What a party !

Qholiff's Wedding Part One

Congratulations Qholiff and Maheran on your marriage. Qholiff is my bro Izron's son.Maheran is my cousin Norma's daughter. The akad ceremony was held Friday night 9th December. Our family sort of agreed that our spokesman would be our uncle (mum's lil bro) Ismet.After all,he had dilligently prepared a pantun script for the occassion. (This guy,Ismet is the kind that seems to know everybody,big or small,and everything). After the handing over of the dowry and exchange of presents,it was time for the akad nikah (marriage ceremony).The bride's father undertook to perform the task .As uncles of the groom,my brothers and me expected to be one of the witness.We were disappointed.Ismet was given that priviledge. During the akad,the bride's father Munir said "Aku nikahkan dikau Mohd Izron.." Everybody laughed. When he got the groom's name right,Qholiff laughed because of the first mistake.Everything went perfectly the second time. The wedding reception was held on Sunday December 11th at Dewan Tun Razak near PWTC.This was hosted by the bride's family.This was no ordinary reception.The guests of honour were the King and Queen. Prior to the occassion,the bride and groom,their parents,their best men and brides maids were rigourously schooled on royal protocol so as not to disrespect the royals. The turn out exceeded the RSVPs.You know,RSVP 2 people,turn up 10 (children,grandma,grandpa,etc) because of the royal couples' presence,I think. Who are the King and Queen for the day,anyway ? There were even some meany datuks and datins who hog the tables reseved for family.They put their handbags,phones,shoes,socks so that no one can sit there,only their favoured friends.They even had the gall to shoo away our kids. We didn't do anything because this is not our party,and we we didn't want to embarrass our hosts Munir & Norma and family. Actually both the King and Queen are very down to earth and friendly folks. That's the impression we got from my bro and the bridal couple.It would have been quite stressfull if the royal couple were stuffy and snotty,like some of those pompous datuks and datins. It was a very nice reception.Everybody went back satisfied.

Egg in Our Face

We've all got egg in our face. The girl who was in the famous ear squats video is a Malay girl. Not a Chinese national as all of us were made to believe. The Sino-centric press and politicians had a field day harassing the government and police. Will they sing the same song now they know she is not Chinese? The Home Minister has gone to apologise to the Chinese government.Rightly so,because there are still incidents of abuse and impropriety against Chinese nationals. Not just Chinese,even Indons,Banglas and other foreigners,even locals like that Malay girl. Better keep your lawmen in line Mr PM. Note: Today 15th December is my late elder brother Emran's birthday. Al Fatihah.May Allah bless your soul and place you among the solleh.

Anniversary

Today 4th December is our 28th wedding anniversary. I was just a junior government officer then.Earning about RM 500 per month. My wife Milah gave up her job in KL.I didn't allow her to work anymore. After our first child Firdaus was born, we moved to Bukit Mertajam where I was working. We shared a govt quarters in Bukit Tengah with my friend.My friend didn't want to stay there,so we had it all to ourselves.By then we already had two kids,Firdaus and Fahmie. And then my friend changed his mind and wanted to move back in.So we had to look for a new home.We rented a newly built house in Tanah Liat.The pakcik and makcik who owned the house were such nice folks.We were treated just like family. When I was late in paying rent ,the pakcik didn't mind.He was very understanding. They had three daughters and a daughter in law. Good friends to Milah. They were all very upset when we moved out.Our third son ,Fadzlil was born during our stay here. My application for a quarters was approved.We moved back to that same little house in Bukit Tengah.My family called it the little house on the praire (after that tv series). Its a single house (cabin) set back from the road with a big open space in front. The kids learnt to ride their bikes there. There is a well beside it.Whenever there is a water shortage (broken mains or cuts) we will bathe at the well.The water is clear,cold and refreshing. To prevent cattle and stray dogs loitering near our house,I got the department to erect a fence around our compound.The well is outside our compound.The villagers use it. The elder boys took a school bus to school at Kebun Sireh. Fadzlil went to kindy in Bukit Mertajam,near my office.His elder brothers also went to the same kindy . When Shahman came,our house in Tasek Gelugor was nearing completion. We moved here in 1990.Fadzlil started Standard One,Fahmie Std Three,Firdaus Std Six. Lina was born in 1991 and Shafiq in 1994. It took nearly 13 years until we finally have a place to call our own. Sometimes we were really hard up,and we had to scrape every cent to put food on the table.I have been buying milk powder since my first child was born in 1978 until now. My youngest son still drinks milk.The price of milk has tripled since 1978. Even though we were not well off,we never begged or borrowed from anyone.If somebody feels like giving,its okay. Now we are quite steady,but still not rich.We don't spend extravagantly,only when necessary. Sometimes,I feel sad that I can't afford to buy nice stuff for my wife and kids.They understand and they never demand anything.They are grateful with what I can give. This anniversary I have set aside a little something for my beloved and long suffering better half.I hope it will make her happy.

Blood Sucking Hospitals.

First of all my condolences to the family of Khairul Annuar.So sad that the hospital left him to die because the family could not pay the RM 5000 deposit on the spot. You bloody foreign owned private hospital, you think people carry RM 5000 in their pocket all the time ? Now the Health Minister Soi Lek has warned " From now on, any hospital, private or other that refuse to attend emergency cases immediately, will have their license and permits revoked." He only said that because it was reported on tv and the press that the boy was known to the DPM's family.You think he would be so concerned if it was your son or my son or some nobody's son ? Just think about it.Recall the many complaints in letters to newspapers. Was any action taken against these money grabbing hospitals ? No. Things start to happen in this country only when the powerful are involved. Good luck Malaysians.

The Lie

Everybody from the PM down to the Opposition,the NGOs and netizens love the Chinese. Or is it the money they are bringing in ? All because of that nude Chinese girl doing ear squats in the police station. And everybody is police bashing. What happened is really despicable.(I mean the bullying) The PM told the cops ," Investigate.No cover ups ." The No.2 Top Cop said," This is normal police procedure.We'll get the chap who shot the video." ???????? PM said " Set up an independent inquiry.I don't trust you cops." And then the deputy minister in charge of police said " Hey,the cops are following procedures you know.If you foreigners can't take the heat, get lost and don't come back." He was caught on camera when he said that. The PM ticked him off and ordered him to retract his statement or apologise.He grudgingly apologised and said " I was misunderstood.You reporters twisted my words." Everyone knows he is lying.Pak Lah just boot him out will you ? and the No.2 Top Cop also.They disobeyed you and embarassed you. All this because of a video of a naked Chinese girl doing ear squats in front of a makcik polis. If you surf the alternative news sites, you may find out that this practise (bullying in the police lockups) have been going on for donkey years. Nobody reprimanded the cops then. Only now, because our tourism ringgit is at stake. Tsk,tsk,tsk.

Disgusting Episode.

DISGUSTING , SHAMEFUL. Words can't describe what I think about that episode, between the policewoman and the poor naked woman made to ear squat in the police station. All of Malaysia have seen it on tv and now the world can see it on Internet, To that policewoman and others like her, I say : Kamu ni apa ? Orang kah haiwan ? Jangan ingat orang asing tak ada hak kemanusiaan. Bukan salah dia mai cari makan di sini.Tak payah nak dera sampai macam tu. Kamu ni Islam kah? Nampak macam Islam pasai pakai tudung. Tapi perangai tak macam orang Islam. Orang Islam tak meng-aib-kan orang lain ugama. Kalau lah jadi kepada kamu, adik kamu, anak kamu, mak kamu kah ? Macam mana rasa ? Kamu memalukan Polis Diraja Malaysia. Kamu memalukan Raja. Kamu memalukan kaum wanita. Kamu memalukan bangsa kamu. Kamu memalukan ugama kamu, ugama saya. Kamu memalukan negara kamu,negara kita. What the hell is the police and government going to do about this as well as other police harrassment incidents ? Dont condemn the US atrocities in Abu Gharib prison. We now have our version here for all to see. No need to study or investigate further.Action must be taken now.

The bouganvilla tree

Visitors who come to my house always tell me that my house is so easy to find. They would look for a big bushy chilli red bouganvilla tree along the fence and will definitely find my house. It is such a landmark in my neighborhood.When people ask my neighbors where my house is,the neighbors will ask them to look out for that tree. Many cuttings have been given to many admirers.But I havent seen any growing in the neighborhood. Some Mat Banglas even posed for photos with the attractive tree to send back home. This bouganvilla never stops flowering all year round. Tiny birds made their nests in the intertwining branches. And it's a good shade for the afternoon,the cats like to sleep under it. On Friday evening,there was a big thunderstorm.The sky was black with sparks of lightning and rolling thunder.The winds were howling loud and strong. Soaked heavy with rain,the old stem could'nt carry the weight of its heavy head of wet leaves and red wet flowers.Finally it snapped and the tree which was our pride and friend to humans and animals was no more. The tree was broken near its stump.Fahmie and friends took two days to clear the leaves and branches.It was not easy.The branches were twisted in and out.The thorns were sharp and painful. About two feet of stump was left.Hope that will grow. When the tree fell,it pulled down my telephone wire too.So I was offline for one day.

What's Happening To Us ?

My dear Malaysia,whats happening to us ? 230 lives were lost in traffic accidents before and during the festive season of Deepa-Raya. Our drivers,motorcyclists don't care about their lives,thir families and other passengers. The government can have a hundred Ops Sikap (Operation Attitude) but its not working,people just want to drive fast on the highways and village roads as if they are F1 drivers.Why were they in such a hurry ? You will still get to your destination if you drive carefully and follow the highway code.Some die because of your carelessness. Malaysian Azahari a Jemaah Islamiah bomb expert was shot dead by Indonesian army. Azahari was a former proffessor from UITM. The way our Malay newspapers write about this chap,as if he was a Muslim hero. Hey orang surat khabar ! Heroes don't kill innocent people. We should be ashamed this guy is a Malaysian, not glorify him. Now the Indon army is hunting his pal,Noordin Mat Top,another Malaysian bomber. These guys wasted their talents for the wrong cause. Hey we don't like the Western powers attacking innocent Muslims in Iraq ,Iran and Afghanistan.Don't follow their barbaric method. The true Islamic way is peaceful and in moderation. Our oldest university UM dropped out of the Top 100 world universities (from 89 to 139). Should we be ashamed or not ? Our MPs behave like idiots. Insulting other races .Complaining about Hattan's singing of Negara Ku. Dont they have anything constructive or useful to speak about ? Recently, Penang CM Tsu Koon (deputy president of Gerakan) just mentioned that all is not well with the teaching of Maths and Science in English. Every Mat and Mamat from Perlis to Johor is hungry for his blood. Now teachers want Saturdays off.You think every teacher has to work on Saturday ? Only school heads work on Saturdays.Other days they are in school till 4.30 pm. The other cikgus, all belah at 1.30, the latest 2.00 pm. The afternoon session cikgus come at 1.45 and belah at 6.30 pm. School holidays, all balik kampong.Their union says they do research work. What research work ? The teachers who really work hard are only 10 or 20 percent. Yesterday the Sec.Gen. of the Rural Development Ministry was charged for CBT. He misused funds for the Extremely Poor Aid. A towkay is involved, but not yet arrested. Did he do it for himself,or is he a fall guy for somebody more powerful. His master will never get caught, I think. Today,the news revealed that our national airlines (MAS) is losing money and business. What happened Malaysia.? What's happening Pak Lah ?

This Raya 2005

Raya Eve (2nd November) Tuned to the TV to wait for the announcement of Hari Raya. Actually we all know when Hari Raya Aidilfitri (1st of Shawal) is going to fall. The dates have allready been calculated by our ahli falaq (asronomists) but as it is a necessary ritual,groups of religous officials make their way to the selected points of observation to peek at the sky to see the moon dot. The same procedure is done for determining the 1st of Ramadan (the fasting month) and also for the 1st of Zulhijjah. After all the said officials have come to an agreement on the date,the word is sent out to the Man of the Hour,the Keeper of the Rulers' Seal. The Keeper comes on tv in between the news and declares on behalf of the King that Hari Raya Aidilfitri will be celebrated tomorrow 3rd November. Hari Raya Aidilfitri (3rd November-1st day) The day begins with a mandi sunat Aidilfitri (raya bath).Then to the mosque for Sembahyang Sunat Aidilfitri (Raya prayers).Shake hands and salam with friends in the mosque . Gather the family and apologise to each other (minta ampun & maaf) kiss and hug each other.Give duit raya to all my kids and grandson except Firdaus and Zu.Firdaus gives duit raya to all his brothers and sister.Even Fahmie is giving duit raya to his brothers and sister. I feel so happy that I could cry.I'm so sentimental. Breakfasted on ketupat,nasi impit,rendang ,kuah kacang and kuih raya. Soon our kids' friends start visiting.Milah and I called on our nearest neighbours to wish them Selamat Hari Raya. My siblings Maher and wife Faridah,Izron and wife Fauziah,Helinna and hubby Kali,and their kids had gathered together and descended on my house that morning.More hugging and kissing,this is normal in our family.The kids recieved their duit raya from their uncles,aunts and older cousins. Catch up with the latest happenings in the family circle,discuss some current events and reminisced about mum and dad,old times,old friends. Then they all left and the house was peaceful again. This year,not many kids came to beraya, I think that at the time they make their rounds there were so many people in the house,so they bypassed our house. Firdaus,Zu and kid,with Lina and Fahmie went to beraya in Penang to visit the uncles and aunts.They returned to Alor Star that night.On the 2nd day of Raya they are visiting Zu's uncles and aunts.Zu starts working on Saturday. What can I say, its their life now.Anyway they were here 2 days before raya. 2nd Day of Raya This is the first time Fadzlil is going out to celebrate Raya outside Tasik Gelugor. First to Brown Garden,my family home.When we got there ,we were informed that Helinna,Kali and family had just left for KL. Bro Maher,Fari,Bro Fajar and wife Hasmah were home.Izron and family had to go to Fauziah's kampung in Bandar Bahru. Sis Jeniffa and hubby Dzol (Yo) just arrived this morning with daughter Fatina & Sushi. Attended Friday prayers at the Taman Sardon Mosque. After lunch we left for Balik Pulau.This is the first time Shahman is driving to Balik Pulau.We took the new road,thats not so winding,but very steep. Shahman handled the car very well. Kak Bedah (Milah's big sis) and Abang Mat (bro in law)invited all the relatives to her open house. Sorry to say,but there was only a little bit of beehoon soup left. After that we went to another of Milah's big sis ,Kak Naidah's house. Left Fadzlil and Fahmie there for awhile,and went to Nooripah (lil sis) flat. Ate a little kuih raya and then wnt back to Kak Naidah's. Sorry again,not much food left,only some curry(minus the meat) and fried eggs. Went home ,not so full. Body all aching from carrying Fadzlil in and out of the car. 3rd Day of Raya Kak Tekah (Milah's big sis) and Mohtar (bro in law) open house.She is serving soto and roti surai. This time we ate a lot.We came earliier.Her house is in Bukit Mertajam,not far from home. After we returned home,Kak Pah (Milah's no.one big sis) came with her kids and grand kids,also Ari (Milah's lil bro) Yati (sis in law)and family. Served them kuih raya.We didnt cook anything. Kak Pah came to invite us at the same time to her youngest son Danny's wedding.this November 27th. Try to catch up on sleep this afternoon. After dinner (Milah made nasi lemak with sambal udang) writing the blog. Selamat Hari Raya to one and all. Maaf zahir dan batin. To my wife,children,dauhter in law and grandson.....I love you.

Firdaus

Today is my eldest son Firdaus's birthday.He will be 27. Firdaus is an aircraft technician in Airod, Kepala Batas,Kedah. He married a Kedah girl, Zuraidah from Gunung Keriang.That's where is situated the Muzium Padi,one of Kedah's attractions.But the mountain looks more attractive.You can get lots of limestone crystals here. They have a one year old son Hasif,our first grandchild. Since he got married, Firdaus seldom comes home.The excuse is that both he and his wife have different weekends.He is off on Saturdays and Sundays.She is off on Fridays. Any way, I feel he has done all right for his family.He has bought a house,and that is the most important part in building a future for his own family. My prayer is that he will cherish his family,parents and siblings.Take good care of his health.Don't get into debts.Don't fool around.Make his home a happy home. I wish he would come home more often.We all miss and love that little fella.

Fadzlil's birthday

Today is my 3rd son Fadzlil's 22nd birthday. If not for that unfortunate accident 4 years ago, he would be out celebrating his birthday with the guys. It is frustating but he has accepted it. Never stop asking God for a cure and recovery. Never stop believing in God. Think of what has happened to you and the effect on your loved ones as God's blessing (rahmat). Fadzlil, your mum,dad and siblings will stay by you all the time. Have courage in yourself and God will give you strength. Inshaallah.

Kak Endon Passes Away

Datin Seri Endon Mahmood, PM Abdullah's wife passed away this morning. Me and my family offer our most sincere takziah to Pak Lah's family and the Ambak family.Sabar banyak-banyak. Semoga ruhnya di cucuri rahmat.

24 Hours in a Ramadzan Day

We have been fasting for 11 days now. What effects me the most is my lost sleep. 24 hours of a day in Ramadzan,goes something like this. 00.00 : still awake watching tv with Fadzlil and Fahmie. 00.30 : Carry Fadzlil to his room.Fahmie goes to sleep. 01.30 : I go to bed after watching more tv.Set the alarm clock to 3.00 am. 03.00 : Awakened by the clock. Wake my missus up. Missus prepares sahur meal and coffee. Wake up all you lazy kids, especially Fahmie. Fahmie gets shaken and shaken for about ten times before he is conscious. Fadzlil is also woken up. My missus feeds him first. 04.30 : After the sahur,everyone goes back to sleep. Set the alarm for 6.00 am. 06.00 : Bath and subuh prayers.Repeat the same procedure for Fahmie. 07.00 : Send Lina to school SM Kampong Selamat. 07.30: Fahmie goes to work in Penang island. 08.00: Send Shafiq to school in Pokok Machang. 08.30: Go to market or shop ,buy newspapers. Read papers and fall asleep. 10.00: Wake Fadzlil up,me and Milah (my missus) carry him out and sit him in front of the tv.Wash his face and brush his teeth. 11.45: Collect Shafiq from his school.Bathe and change him. Milah starts working on today's buka puasa menu. 13.15: Zohor prayers. 14.30: Lina comes back from school.After she has bathed and rested,she will hog the computer until evening.Looking at her mail and chatting online. 14.30:Carry Fadzlil to bathroom for his bath. 15.00:Milah bathes him,he doesn't like me to bathe him. Carry him back to the bed,change his clothes,etc. Leave him for his nap until 5.30 pm. 15.00: I catch up for my lost sleep. 16.20 : Asar prayers. 17.30 : Carry Fadzlil out,so he can watch tv with the family. 17.30: Go to pasar Ramadzan buy some kuih for buka puasa. 18.45: Spread the dinner table with our food for breaking fast. Lina prepares the cool drinks. 19.06: Waktu berbuka puasa untuk Negeri Pulau Pinang dan kawasan- kawasan sewaktu dengannya. 19.15 to 20.00 : Maghrib prayers as soon as youve rested. 20.20: Prepare to go to mosque for Isha' and Terawih prayers. Sometimes I go ,sometimes I don't.See the weather lah. 23.00: Milah and Lina call it a day,say good night. Fahmie as usual, lawat kawasan until midnight. I watch tv with Fadzlil,sometimes tv watches us. 24.00: Same old routine again.

My Mum

Today October 7th is my mum's birthday. She would have been 80 years old. She was the eldest child of a Bengali immigrant named Azyze and a Malay lady named Aishah (aka Putih).She was born in 1925 in Sungai Petani,Kedah. Azyze later moved to Penang and worked in the PWD (now called JKR).When he retired he was active in UMNO and became Chairman of the Penang Rural District Council. A road in Tanjung Bunga was named after him. The road is Jalan Azyze. My mum and her sisters were among the very first Malay girls to attend a missionary school, Methodist Girls School, in Anson Road. She had to stop schooling when war broke out and after my grandma died in 1942. She was introduced to my dad by his brother (my uncle Noor Naim) who was courting her sister (my aunty Yon).My dad was working in Singapore ,so my uncle became his postman for their correspondence. They got married in 1943.They had 8 children (6 boys,2 girls). When my dad passed away it was devastating for us all.But my mother put on a brave front and stoically held the family together,together fighting hunger and poverty Until her last breath we made sure her life is comfortable and pleasant. She saw all her children got married,and every grand child that was born has been kissed by her.The grand children she did'nt see was my boy Shafiq and Fajar's girl Hafatin. But when we go back to our family home in Brown Garden, we will see a big photograph of our mum and our children's grandma. And there is another family portrait with mum and dad .

Selamat Berpuasa

Tomorrow 4th October all Muslims in Malaysia will start the fasting month of Ramadan. During this month we are obliged to refrain from eating and drinking from early dawn to dusk.We are also required to do a lot of ibadat ( doing good things like praying,reading the quran, do good deeds and give to the poor and weak.) Last year, Fadzlil (my paralysed son) managed to complete the fast,without any problems. This year I hope he will make it too. To all my family and fellow Muslims I wish Selamat Berpuasa.

A Message to Fahmie

Today is my second son Fahmie's 24th birthday. I wish him all the success in this world.Hope he will work harder and not fool around so much. Fahmie this is your life and only you and you alone can change it. Happy birthday my son.May God bless you. Love from Mak and Bapak and all your family.

He Can't Keep Quiet

Our former PM Tun Mahathir is very much in the news these days. There was the APs controversy with MITI Minister Rafidah. When the list of AP holders were released as ordered by PM Abdullah.There were some startling revelations.A few good friends of Rafidah recieved thousands of APs. Until today Rafidah cant come out with a decent explanation. When parliament resumed sitting recently,Rafidah knowing that she will be grilled by her fellow MPs absented herself.She was attending a meeting in the US. Her deputy Husni stood in for her.Husni revealed a list of 337 MPs (BN and non BN) who recived an AP. How embarassing for them.There they were criticizing MITI awarding APs to cronies, actually they also got an AP.Now we know what a hypocratic lot these politicians are. Any way Tun Mahathir says this AP episode is not over yet.Wonder what's he got to say. Recently Tun Mahathir was invited to a Human Rights seminar by Suhakam (Malaysian Human Rights Commission). Many NGOs were against Suhakam's decision to invite him.At the Seminar Tun M blasted the US and Europeans for the invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan, that abused the human rights of innocent civilians. The Malaysian NGOs reminded Tun M that he was an abuser of human rights when he ruled Malaysia for 22 years. After the Seminar some foreign busybody reporters asked him whether he regretted sacking Anwar Ibrahim.He said he did the right thing.Anwar was a homosexual and he doesnt want a gay PM to run the country,he said. Now, Anwar wants to sue Tun M,and Tun M says go ahead,it is his right. Thats Tun Mahathir, he will never shut up. Idont know if he is being meddlesome or that it is his patriotic way.

Malaysia Day

Yesterday September 16th,Malaysia turned 42. But few remembered that day. Every year we celebrate Independence Day on August 31st. That day is significant to the former Federation of Malaya,It was not so significant to Sabah and Sarawak.They got their Independence on Sept.16 1963,when the joined the Federation to become one nation called Malaysia. Since this is Malaysia's official birthday,why don't the Government declare it a National Holiday ? Our brothers in Sabah and Sarawak are not very happy because we force them to celebrate thier Independence on the same day that Malaya got its Independence. So sorry,but thats the way it is.

Bloggers and posters

I surf the Net every day and read most of the popular Malaysian blogs.I find that most of these bloggers dont have anything positive to say about the government.It seems that this country is being run by incompetent bumblers and liars. Actually, these famous bloggers do write and put out their thoughts and observations in a very articulate and precise way,without hurting the sensitivities of the communities. But it is the bad ass posters (not everyone) with their racial slanted and chauvinistic comments that ruined whatever good intentions the blogger was trying to communicate. If you guys are so smart and adequate,come next elections put down your laptops and run for office.Kit and Karpal could use your support. As for me, I prefer my blog to be personal,for my family and friends.

Happy Birthday Hasif

Happy Birthday Hasif. Its your very FIRST birthday. Dont be in a hurry to grow up. Love and hugs from Grandpa.Grandma,Uncle Fahmie,Uncle Fadzlil,Uncle Shahman,Aunty Lina and Uncle Shafiq.

My Wife,Jamilah

Its 4.25pm, my wife is having her well deserved afternoon nap.She looks so peacefull and serene. I have retired from my job for two years already but my wife will never retire from her housewife duties as long as she is able. She may nag at me and the kids from time to time,but we know she does it because she loves us.Some times I say some hurtful things to her but I never meant it.I would never never hurt her feelings.I have never ever hit her, God will curse me if I do that. My wife,Jamilah (it means beautiful in Arabic) comes from the coastal village of Batu Uban,where the Penang Bridge ends on the island side. When I first saw her I was struck by her beauty.Her skin was milky white,long luxurious black hair framing her lovely face,and her eyes were round and hazel. We were married on 4th December 1977. We now have 6 kids (5 boys and a girl) and one grandson. Jamilah comes from a big family (11 siblings,10 girls & 1 boy).She was the 6th child. At the time we married,both her parents had passed away and 4 siblings were still schooling.Her elder sisters and brother in laws helped to raise their family. We are very happy, fighting is normal in every family,then we speak again to each other. I have no reason to complain.She takes good care of us and our home. How would we ever survive without her?

Merdeka Again

No matter what I think of our politicians, I love my country very much. I was born here,so did my dad and mum.My grand parents were born here too. Only our great grand ancestors were not born here. To be fair to the late Tunku,although he didn't fight for independence like some Malay heroes, he did convince the British that we Malayans were ready and able to rule ourselves. The Alliance of UMNO.MCA and MIC won the first elections in Malaya in 1955.Tunku became the Chief Minister of the Federation of Malaya.Since the Alliance government under Tunku proved that they were capable, the British were willing to let the malayans govern themselves. Malaya became independent on 31st August 1957. Now our new generation leaders have too much power.Some got greedier to get richer,at the expense of the poorer ,less educated folks. Some became envious of fellow Malaysians who are different in race or faith. We have become a free nation for 48 years, but we are still divided . Every year on Merdeka Day we fly flags on our rooftops,on our cars to show our patriotism.But in our hearts there's suspicion about the guy who is different from us. Malays still despice Chinese and Indians.Chinese despice Malays and Indians.Indians despice Malays and Chinese. This will go on for years until finally when all the races are mixed up like rojak,through inter-marriages,then we will have a true Malaysian. Just like me and my family,all mixed up true Malaysians.

Merdeka

Malaysia is 48 years old today. Actually Peninsular Malaysia is 48. Sabah and Sarawak will only be 42 on September 16th Our history books say UMNO fought for our Independence. Really ah? I read somewhere that the British gave the country to UMNO under Tunku Abdul Rahman because Tunku accepted their terms. Some unknown freedom fighters were jailed for actually fighting the British government at that time.It was these heroes that fought for Malaya's independence. That was how history was taught by the people in power at the moment.When the British ruled us,they taught all the good things about the British rulers.How well they treated the natives. Now we rule our own country,history is Malaysian oriented.We learnt that the British were not so good after all.They just wanted to steal our land and riches. No matter who is right or wrong, we adopted many British ideas.We ,older generation speak and write in English.Read English papers,sing English songs,etc.Our government follows the British system. The only thing that Malaysia has to show for its freedom from the English is we use our National Language in government and schools.It has not helped our young people.They cannot compete globally. Until 2020 Good luck Malaysia.

Allah's Test

Fahmie,my second son is in hospital. He was admitted yesterday,as recommended by the neurologist. My eldest son Firdaus and Fahmie both suffer from a rare sickness called hypo-kalemitic syndrome,which is a low count of pottassium and a higher count of carbohydrates in their blood. When their pottassium level drops,their limbs become semi-paralysed. They are unable to stand up and ,both legs and arms become weak. Firdaus had this problem before,and he is regularly taking the medication and cutting down on carbohydrates in his diet. It really depresses me that my sons are not as healthy as they should be. Firdaus and Fahmie have this pottassium problem. My third son Fadzlil is paralysed from a motorbike accident. My fourth son seems to be okay,no serious sickness. My youngest son Shafiq born with Down Syndrome. My only daughter Lina is also okay. I think that Allah is testing me and my wife Milah to see how we can handle all this misfortune,and we must accept.

Happy Birthday Shafiq.

Happy Birthday Shafiq. Today is your 11th birthday. Think about all the fun things you can do at this age. But you are not like other boys.You are special. You will always be Mak and Bapak's baby. You are forever the Adik to your Abangs and Kakaks. We love you as you are,as Allah meant you to be. May Allah bless you Shafiq.

After 1968

August II was my father's birthday.He would have been 87 years old. He died in 1968 at the age of 50. He didnt see his children got married,and his 30 grandchildren. A lot of things happened in Malaysia since 1968. The Penang Bridge was built . The country's administration was moved from KL to a new town called Putrajaya. The International Airport was moved from Subang to Sepang. We have two national car makers,Proton and Perodua. Our currency is called RM (Ringgit) not Malaysian Dollar. In 1968 our population was 10 million,now its 24 million people. Many foreign workers have been working here. There are no English medium schools,all schools use Bahasa Malaysia as a medium. English has only recently been introduced in Science and Maths subject. The school teachers and government servants speak rotten English. Even the universities use BM in their courses,our graduates dare not go overseas because of their inferior command of English. The children of rich Malays and ministers go overseas for their education. There is no integration among the races ,every race eyes the other with suspicion. Even the Malays cannot get along with their own race,because the government leaders only help themselves,their family and cronies. The simple kampong folk is still as poor as he was back in 1968. There are many roads and highways and so many vehicles speeding . Road deaths and accidents occur almost every day. Its not safe to walk on the streets,there are snatch thieves,rapists. Nobody is safe from these brutes. The police do not patrol the streets,they just drive round in their patrol cars and block small cars and motor cyclists and threaten these poor people for bribes. They woudnt dare haul up those driving expensive Mercs,BMWs ,it culd be some big shot's son or wife.Because of these kind of cops road bullies get away. The air we are breathing today is not so fresh.All the nice shady trees and hills are being cut to make more houses,more roads. When those trees are burnt we get haze. Although we have made impressive progress throuh the years after Merdeka,we still have to change our attitudes. Like our PM said we have first class infrastructure but third class menatlity.

Shafiq's Dental Appointment

Today,Shafiq had an appointment with the Dental Surgery Department in Penang Hospital. Two years ago he was refered to the hospital by the local Govt Clinic.Too much `carries' were forming in his teeth and had to be surgically removed.The hospital removed quite a number of his teeth that were badly decayed, and he spent a couple of days in the ward. so today he is going for a follow up inspection,every 4 months or so. He woke up early as usual,he thought he was going to school.Lina skipped school to keep him company.He was happy travelling so far and to some place other than his school.We travelled on the ferry so he can watch the waves and ships sailing by. I handed over his clinic card to the HA and we waited,he was happy and relaxed. And then they called him `Muhammad Shafiq'. I took his hand and he pushed it away. He knew he was going to be examined.Its no fun being held back on the dentist chair,with the bright light blinding your eyes,someone gripping your jaws and prodding your teeth. After some gentle coaxing and encouragement,Shafiq good boy,Shafiq clever boy, he relaxed and allowed himself to be examined but not without some resistance.Someone had to hold his legs,someone had to hold his head.Finally it was over.His teeth are okay ,clean.The nurse just applied some fluoride.As a reward for being a good boy,the clinic gave him a balloon.On the way out,he gave his balloon to a little girl. I am pleased with his attitude today,maybe he has been through this several times and he has learnt to cooperate. His next appointment is in January 2006.

What's Hot in Malaysian Blogs

Malaysian bloggers currently hot blog postings are: Rafidah Aziz and Mahathir's squabble about APs and Proton. Proposed extension of NEP as promoted by UMNO Youth. The dubious background of Putra UMNO Chief Azeez. The heartless SMS going round about the health of Endon.PM's wife. The party elections of MCA and Gerakan. Akademi Fantasia 3. Siti Nurhalizah's relationship with a certain Datuk K.(not Kali) The resignation of Proton executives. The resignation of UMNO disciplinary board member Zaki Tun Azmi. The demolishing of Ayah Pin's commune,but where's Ayah Pin. Wait for more hot news when Rafidah comes home to attend the Cabinet meeting tomorrow, and Pak Lah will be back too. My advice to some Malaysian blog posters,if you must comment please do it in a decent manner,don't slander people's race or religion. I observe that there's too much rubbish being posted on the net.

Shafiq the CD Raider

Sometimes, Shafiq can be so annoying. One afternoon,while his mak and abang were napping,he was wide awake.I was in the garden sweeping the leaves of the rambutan tree. He was supposed to take a nap too. After finishing my work, I popped in the house but I did not see him.Usually they will be sprawling on the carpet with the fan spinning full blast. And then I heard him making his humming noises and heard what sounded like a chair being dragged on the floor. A scraping kind of sound. I looked into the back room where the big cupboard is and there was Shafiq.He had pushed away the old armchair that was placed against the cupboard and had dragged a smaller wooden chair in front of it.He had opened the higher latch of the cupboard and had successfully opened the cupboard door for his prize. A cupboard full of vcd's. Sure,he did not unstack the cd's orderly like normal people do.He had to do it his way.Pull down everything on to the floor and unscramble them to find his chosen cd's. Actually there weren't any of his favourites,thats why they are stashed there. Of course I lost my cool and nagged him but whats the use he was cooler he just kept rummaging among his loot.I picked a few that he was interested in and he clutched them and went to bother his Mak. Bapak clear up everything, who else ? My wife told me,he had raided every cupboard in the house.All the cupboards and drawers were left opened. That is one annoying habit that we would like him to stop.How?

Carnival UMNO

The UMNO Show has come and gone. There was the Drama Queen,the upstarts with their rudeness and kris brandishing,the comedians,the poets,the charming princesses.2,500 attended the show in the main hall,5000 watching the giant screens outside with their families and friends.Thousands more shopping at numerous booths selling foods and stuffs. Many resolutions were made,to be forgotten, and brought up again next year. Yes ,this is the Malays' favourite carnival,after TV3 Karnival Sure Heboh. Dont miss it next year.

Rafidah Cries

The whole world saw Malaysia's Iron Lady Rafidah weeping `crocodile tears' at the press conference held before the start of the UMNO Wanita and Putri general assembly.She was explaining about the thousands of APs (approved permit to import foreign vehicles into Malaysia) monopolised by certain people. She argued that those 3 and others who recieved them were capable and have gained the trust of their foreign partners,so what are you making noise for ? If she gave me ,I would'nt know what to do with it. She seems to have a point there. Actually the weeping was because she felt hurt when some people said to her that she was rude to former PM Tun Dr M. She said that the Tun is like a father to her and she would never act so rudely to him.She said she was misunderstood. See tomorrow when she has to answer the UMNO delegates (intelligent and dumb) who will be waiting. I think most critics of the AP holders are just envious or maybe they feel that they are more deserving. Some people only know how to criticize but are actually useless.

So Much Hate

I felt sorry for those who lost their loved ones and friends during the London bombings.After investigations it was assumed that those responsible for the explosions were suicide bombers.They were British Pakistani Muslims.Why they did it,I dont know.But it was not the right way to demonstrate their hate for the British and American leadership. Innocent people died for nothing. I also feel sorrier for the innocent Iraqis,Afghans,Palestines and others who were bombed out of their homes,driven out of their homeland all in the name of freedom.Freedom for the US allies to get more oil and make fortunes to rebuild what they have destroyed. I think all the occupiers in these countries should leave immediately. If not there will never be peace and more killings.

Violence in Penang

These last few weeks we read the papers and watched them on tv almost every day. There were these bunch of thugs who bashed up a 19 year old boy at Gurney Drive just because he told them to stop disturbing a girl who is related to him.15 of them beat him up till he was unconscious.The boy's friends who were with him ran for their lives,what kind of useless friends are these. The boy was in a coma,brain-dead for several days until he finally passed away.One of the assailants was remorsefull and turned himself in to the police. Nine more were picked up later.Five more are being hunted. A few days after that incident another 18 year old boy was beaten up in Telok Kumbar because he protected an old man who was being abused. He broke his skull but he is still alive.No arrests have been made yet. What made them so violent and pitiless.Is it their upbringing or lack of religion or is it their lack of education ? If they had been brought up proper and decent they would respect other people.If their faith in their religion is strong they would not harm others who are innocent.If they had a decent education they would know what is right and what is wrong and would know the consequences of their deeds. The London bombings,I'll write about it later.

Father

Comes Father's Day I am reminded of what my father said to me on my 21st birthday.He said" son,you are now on your own".That did'nt mean much at first.And then 4 months later he passed away and I realised I am really on my own. He did not leave any inheritance,no house (we lived in the govt quarters) no real estate,no bank account, no car, no insurance,nothing for us to get by. All he left was my mother and his 8 children.Yes,his brothers and sisters dished us bits of charity but for how long? At that time only my elder brother was earning,he was in the Air Force based in Kuantan. I was the second in the family so I had to take on my father's responsibility. Fortunately I got a job 2 months later.With my brother's contribution and my pay we got along as best as we could. Later on my younger brothers and sister took on several jobs to help out. With my father's gratuity and EPF we had enough funds for my mother to buy a house in Brown Garden. We were in such hardship when my father left us all because my father was not prepared for his death.He thought he could live longer than he did. My father loved life as life loved him. He never thought about himself,he always gave his heart and his money to anyone ,beggar or rich man is all the same to him.But unscrupulous people took advantage of his noble and kind personality and its the family that suffered. He was very loving and gentle with children and animals.The Malay friends who come and visit are often shocked out of their songkoks to see him patting his favourite dog sitting beside his armchair.Our cousins simply loved to sit around him to listen to his stories and to learn songsof his time.My dad loved singing .The radio was always on,but not the Bahasa Malaysia station. We only turn on the Malay station when granny is around. His father (my grandpa) died young too.He had a hard time during the Japanese Occupation,being the eldest son.He did part time jobs after school to support my grandma and his family. My father has thaught a lesson to us all,only after he is gone. Prepare yourself for whatever may come,at the same time love life. Be kind and gentle to everyone young and old.Be kind to animals and other living things. This is what I am teaching my children.

Don't Cakap Besar

Today's big news in the papers and tv was about the rescues of the four boys lost in Frasers Hill and the man and boy lost in Cameron Highlands. Thanks to the Orang Asli trekkers and the rescue units for finding them.Thank God,everyone is safe. I hope people will not try to go hill trekking without expert guides and experienced trekkers.By the way,the man who got lost in Cameron Highlands claims he is a seasoned and expert hill trekker but he still got lost. People say you must never `cakap besar' (boast) in these parts of the country (jungled hills/mountains/rivers) because some `inhabitants' do not like boasters and those who misbehave in their 'territory' and they will teach you a lesson you'll never forget forever.

Modem Problem

Modem was down few weeks ago.The TM Net guys came and replaced a new one. But my computer still problem,maybe have to check the CPU.

Melayu Tak Sedar Diri

Don't it make you sick/annoyed/irritated by those ' Malays/Melayu' who matter (those in high and influential places) talking about 'towering Malays','Malay agenda','Malay rights','Malay leadership' Malay this and Malay that. What a load of bullshit. In the first place,those chaps,including myself,are not full blooded Malays,they are a mixed bunch of immigrants from India,China,Thai,Javanese,Achinese and from all over SE Asia. So what gives them the right to call themselves Bangsa Melayu.The real Bangsa Melayu are in the forests and reservations.Who's fighting for their rights?. And then they talk about racial harmony and integration.Who's responsible for the disharmony between the Chinese and Malays (well covered up for the tourists and foreigners)?.Who messed up with the education system and produced mediocre politicians and government officers.The Malay leadership. My I.C.and BC says I'm a Malay/Bumiputera,but I don't really feel like one.I am and I feel like I'm a Malaysian. My grandpa and great grandpa on my dad's side are officially described as Jawi Pekan,my grandma is Ceylonese Malay mixed with Chinese. My grandpa on my mum's side is from Bengalese ancestry,my grandma is allegedly Malay from Kedah,but many Kedahans are from Siamese ancestory. I had my primary education at Francis Light School (English medium) and secondary education at Penang Free School.We never felt any discrimination to or from other races.We were all very chummy and comfortable with all the races. We called our Chinese pals by their personal names like Seng Hong, Ah Fatt or their Christian names ,not like today's Malays calling Chinese friends by their surnames like Tan,Ong,etc.How can you bond with a non malay when you can't even call him or her by their personal name ? Talk about integration,when you don't even try to understand each other's culture and customs,come on lah. God help the malays for we have really tak sedar diri.

Rained heavily this morning (1100-1200).Brought raincoat & helmet for Shafiq.He didn't make a fuss about wearing the raincoat,like he used to,guess he knows that he has to put it on. Shafiq is my youngest son,10 years old and a Downs syndrome special child.He is quite small for his age,he looks about 8 years old. He can't speak a word,just makes sounds, and communicates with his hands and facial expressions,especially his round adorable eyes. But he can laugh with glee and giggle when he watches his favourite cartoons or VCDs. If he likes the VCD he'll watch it again and again and again.we all get tired of it and bored but he never gets bored until the disc is badly scratched and unwatchable ,mainly due to his handling, thrusting the disc in our faces until we play it for him.Shafiq the VCD fiend. Whenever the elder kids bring back a new VCD,he'll be the one to check it out first.If there's some new cartoon or kiddy movie advertised on tv,he'll gesticulate as if to say `I want it.I want it'. He likes to look at magazines with cartoon characters he is familiar with like Disney's,Doraemon,Sinchan ,Dragon Ball. Good night,Shafiq,sweet child of mine.

Introduction

Hello.I'm Pak Shah. This is the first time I'm blogging. I'll talk about my family,seems like a good way to break ice. I'm a retired civil servant.My wife is a home maker. We have six kids (5 boys and a girl) and one grandson. One of my sons is a special kid (Downs) and one son is crippled. We'll meet again soon.