I am so happy with latest development in medical science.
Lab-made organs could help solve global organ donor shortage
http://www.medindia.net/news/lab-made-organs-could-help-solve-global-organ-donor-shortage-98685-1.htm
It is the happiest news indeed. If the development could push on the "fast forward" button, more lives can be saved, human trafficking related to human organ trading could be completely eliminated and thousands and thousands of patients in the waiting list will see rays and lights of hope and lives can be normal again.
I have always been looking forward for such development because I feel the future of organ donation should rely on medical science and the invention of machines which could sustain lives.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Sunday, April 1, 2012
My 7 Demands for Lynas
When issues get started, heated arguments began, I always take time to
1. See both supporters and opponents, what they say, do and how they react
2. Analyse both sides of the divide, regardless of parties
3. It will take me another week or weeks before I issue a statement or my opinions about things
What I agree with both Himpunan Hijau group and the opposition parties:
- I agree that we should take Bukit Merah as reference but it should be a learning curve instead of using it as a Stop Lynas point
- I agree on the possibilities of toxic wastes affecting people perhaps 30km radius of the plant
- I totally agree that if the plant is radioactive, measures must be taken to protect staffs and people around the plant
- I also agree with the many people supporting the movement, very rare we see movements of people and now even silent majority has taken things to street
But I also somewhat agree with the government and Lynas Corp on certain matters:
- that the plant is merely a plant with low radiation level, not like a radioactive plant as claimed by the opposition
- I agree that a Parliament Select Committee be established to look into the matter
- I agree that we have foreign direct investment and it will be very difficult to just stop the project and eventually lose interest from foreign countries to invest in Malaysia in the future. Now I know people also talked about government wants money and don't care about the people anymore - but let's just take things one by one
- I agree that the Department of Environment and AELB should be taking charge of all monitoring
Yet, both arguments - as many things are - both parties think they are right and has got no wrong. I disagree with that. Looking at both sides of the divide, I think both have their points but a question remains unanswered, 'What's Next?' Too often we see war of words, courses of blaming game but not a practical solution to the real issue.
It is not the number of people attending Himpunan Hijau that matters, it is how to solve the problem.
It is not how safe the goverment thinks Lynas is, it is how to solve the main problem pertaining the continuance or stopping Lynas
In my humble opinion, humblest of a human in Malaysia (and not an expert in this field), let me list my demands for Lynas:
1. AELB published that RM50 million deposit was to be paid by Lynas, but I think RM50 million does not justify. Learning from Bukit Merah which made the government spent RM200 million to clean the plant, the minimum deposit should at least be RM100 million
2. If it is true like what Himpunan Hijau claimed that the toxic wastes could harm people of 30km radius, Lynas perhaps should have an option for relocation for residents staying within 30km radius
3. The worry on radioactivity, I believe all staffs and people in and near the plant should be informed of the highest and lowest mSv counts every month, with all areas within the plant be installed a monitoring of the radiation level so staffs will know what they are exposed to
4. Since the government has given 12 years tax break to Lynas, perhaps we the rakyat should demand Lynas to allocate a dividend for environmental projects and for the benefit of rakyat.
5. I also demand Lynas to be more open and transparent! I'd like to see Lynas opening its doors for public visits and make it an educational visit by having people to explain and show the public how the process of rare earth extraction is being done.
6. I'd demand DOE and AELB to do their job real well, just like how oil palm industry and oil and gas industry are being strictly monitored. Secondly I'd like AELB and DOE to open their inspection sessions to the public, the rakyat, people staying around the plant and maybe Himpunan Hijau activists, perhaps each session is open to a fixed number of observers. How DOE and AELB do their inspection, what inspection standards are being used and how to determine safety levels, all these must be open to the public, more importantly the people around the plant.
7. Welfare of people working in the plant MUST not be compromised. I suggest and demand free full body checkup for all staffs at Lynas yearly. All risks and risk exposure to any radioactivity must be thoroughly informed to the staffs and made understood and signed by both parties before he or she starts working. Just like how it is a requirement for me to thoroughly understand the risks to donate part of my liver to someone. I did it after fully understanding the risks, including 1% death risk during operation and 10% risk of death due to infections.
If Lynas could not fulfill all my demands, I demand that Lynas leaves Malaysia for a better future.
[new] I disagree if we say, "go have Lynas somewhere else but not in Malaysia, but I want benefits of rare earth." A little selfish I think, because is the NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) mindset.
I stand corrected on the numbers and certain values I may have wrongly stated.
More reading:
1. http://mynewshub.my/eng/2012/02/the-truth-about-lynas/
2. What is Radiation? http://hps.org/publicinformation/ate/faqs/radiation.html
3. What is the safe level of radiation? http://www.epa.gov/radiation/understand/health_effects.html#whatlimits
4. Japan Nuclear Emergency: How Much Radiation is Safe? http://ecocentric.blogs.time.com/2011/03/13/japan-nuclear-emergency-how-much-radiation-is-safe/
5. Rare earth extraction process control method based on ion characteristic color detection http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/login.jsp?tp=&arnumber=5553842&url=http%3A%2F%2Fieeexplore.ieee.org%2Fxpls%2Fabs_all.jsp%3Farnumber%3D5553842 (Paper presented by Hui Yang)
6. Are Rare Earth Minerals Too Costly for Environment? http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/asia/july-dec09/china_12-14.html
7. China's Rare Earth Elements Industry: What Can the West Learn? http://www.iags.org/rareearth0310hurst.pdf
8. China's environmental watchdog tightens control over rare earth projects http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/china/2011-11/24/c_131267958.htm
9. HOW DANGEROUS IS RADIATION? http://www.phyast.pitt.edu/~blc/book/chapter5.html
10. Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM V) Proceedings of an international symposium Seville, Spain, 19–22 March 2007 http://www-pub.iaea.org/MTCD/publications/PDF/Pub1326_web.pdf
[newly added for my reference]
11. [simplified understanding of rare earth and Lynas] http://www.thegreenmechanics.com/2012/03/of-rare-earth-and-lynas.html and Part II http://www.thegreenmechanics.com/2012/03/of-rare-earth-and-lynas-part-ii.html
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
1. See both supporters and opponents, what they say, do and how they react
2. Analyse both sides of the divide, regardless of parties
3. It will take me another week or weeks before I issue a statement or my opinions about things
What I agree with both Himpunan Hijau group and the opposition parties:
- I agree that we should take Bukit Merah as reference but it should be a learning curve instead of using it as a Stop Lynas point
- I agree on the possibilities of toxic wastes affecting people perhaps 30km radius of the plant
- I totally agree that if the plant is radioactive, measures must be taken to protect staffs and people around the plant
- I also agree with the many people supporting the movement, very rare we see movements of people and now even silent majority has taken things to street
But I also somewhat agree with the government and Lynas Corp on certain matters:
- that the plant is merely a plant with low radiation level, not like a radioactive plant as claimed by the opposition
- I agree that a Parliament Select Committee be established to look into the matter
- I agree that we have foreign direct investment and it will be very difficult to just stop the project and eventually lose interest from foreign countries to invest in Malaysia in the future. Now I know people also talked about government wants money and don't care about the people anymore - but let's just take things one by one
- I agree that the Department of Environment and AELB should be taking charge of all monitoring
Yet, both arguments - as many things are - both parties think they are right and has got no wrong. I disagree with that. Looking at both sides of the divide, I think both have their points but a question remains unanswered, 'What's Next?' Too often we see war of words, courses of blaming game but not a practical solution to the real issue.
It is not the number of people attending Himpunan Hijau that matters, it is how to solve the problem.
It is not how safe the goverment thinks Lynas is, it is how to solve the main problem pertaining the continuance or stopping Lynas
In my humble opinion, humblest of a human in Malaysia (and not an expert in this field), let me list my demands for Lynas:
1. AELB published that RM50 million deposit was to be paid by Lynas, but I think RM50 million does not justify. Learning from Bukit Merah which made the government spent RM200 million to clean the plant, the minimum deposit should at least be RM100 million
2. If it is true like what Himpunan Hijau claimed that the toxic wastes could harm people of 30km radius, Lynas perhaps should have an option for relocation for residents staying within 30km radius
3. The worry on radioactivity, I believe all staffs and people in and near the plant should be informed of the highest and lowest mSv counts every month, with all areas within the plant be installed a monitoring of the radiation level so staffs will know what they are exposed to
4. Since the government has given 12 years tax break to Lynas, perhaps we the rakyat should demand Lynas to allocate a dividend for environmental projects and for the benefit of rakyat.
5. I also demand Lynas to be more open and transparent! I'd like to see Lynas opening its doors for public visits and make it an educational visit by having people to explain and show the public how the process of rare earth extraction is being done.
6. I'd demand DOE and AELB to do their job real well, just like how oil palm industry and oil and gas industry are being strictly monitored. Secondly I'd like AELB and DOE to open their inspection sessions to the public, the rakyat, people staying around the plant and maybe Himpunan Hijau activists, perhaps each session is open to a fixed number of observers. How DOE and AELB do their inspection, what inspection standards are being used and how to determine safety levels, all these must be open to the public, more importantly the people around the plant.
7. Welfare of people working in the plant MUST not be compromised. I suggest and demand free full body checkup for all staffs at Lynas yearly. All risks and risk exposure to any radioactivity must be thoroughly informed to the staffs and made understood and signed by both parties before he or she starts working. Just like how it is a requirement for me to thoroughly understand the risks to donate part of my liver to someone. I did it after fully understanding the risks, including 1% death risk during operation and 10% risk of death due to infections.
If Lynas could not fulfill all my demands, I demand that Lynas leaves Malaysia for a better future.
[new] I disagree if we say, "go have Lynas somewhere else but not in Malaysia, but I want benefits of rare earth." A little selfish I think, because is the NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) mindset.
I stand corrected on the numbers and certain values I may have wrongly stated.
More reading:
1. http://mynewshub.my/eng/2012/02/the-truth-about-lynas/
2. What is Radiation? http://hps.org/publicinformation/ate/faqs/radiation.html
3. What is the safe level of radiation? http://www.epa.gov/radiation/understand/health_effects.html#whatlimits
4. Japan Nuclear Emergency: How Much Radiation is Safe? http://ecocentric.blogs.time.com/2011/03/13/japan-nuclear-emergency-how-much-radiation-is-safe/
5. Rare earth extraction process control method based on ion characteristic color detection http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/login.jsp?tp=&arnumber=5553842&url=http%3A%2F%2Fieeexplore.ieee.org%2Fxpls%2Fabs_all.jsp%3Farnumber%3D5553842 (Paper presented by Hui Yang)
6. Are Rare Earth Minerals Too Costly for Environment? http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/asia/july-dec09/china_12-14.html
7. China's Rare Earth Elements Industry: What Can the West Learn? http://www.iags.org/rareearth0310hurst.pdf
8. China's environmental watchdog tightens control over rare earth projects http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/china/2011-11/24/c_131267958.htm
9. HOW DANGEROUS IS RADIATION? http://www.phyast.pitt.edu/~blc/book/chapter5.html
10. Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM V) Proceedings of an international symposium Seville, Spain, 19–22 March 2007 http://www-pub.iaea.org/MTCD/publications/PDF/Pub1326_web.pdf
[newly added for my reference]
11. [simplified understanding of rare earth and Lynas] http://www.thegreenmechanics.com/2012/03/of-rare-earth-and-lynas.html and Part II http://www.thegreenmechanics.com/2012/03/of-rare-earth-and-lynas-part-ii.html
Decide for yourselfThink about this. If Australians did not have to endure radioactive radiations from a supposedly Lynas plant back there, why would us Malaysians want to willingly subject our self to a highly risky endeavour?
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Friday, March 30, 2012
PPP Politicians for Party or People?
I am more and more disappointed with the current political scenario in our country. More to be seen especially when the general election is drawing nearer.
Our country, and rakyat which I'm very much a part of, need good people, good doers and great workers to steer Malaysia to greater heights. People of the country who put country in their heart, not just the party.
We are no more a society of reason and thinkers. We have a partisan society and a puppetry country.
First it was during YAB Lim Guan Eng debates Datuk Seri Chua Soi Lek. Looking at two camps of supporters, it didn't matter who said what, as long as Guan Eng said something, opposition camp raved. As long as Soi Lek said something, MCA camp cheered.
And then we were entertained with tow-truck sister shouting her petty issues. Suddenly, she got all the spotlight shined on her. The issues raised during the debates gone with the wind. When issues are raised, I often ask 'so, what's next?' And that question stayed lingering in my mind.
Then, Bersih 2.0, Himpunan Hijau were all so partisan - is either you agree or disagree and very often, according to you party's stand.
I understand what it means by loyalty and support. As a true supporter and true loyalist, I should do what I think is right for the people and country, not blind loyalist of a party.
Bersih 2.0 is for clean and fair election. Now, months after the rally, what has both PR and BN do for fair and clean election? The current government now set up a Parliament Select Committee for this matter and coming with ideas and solid solutions.
Our country needs moderation, thinker and reasonable people.
And then we see the 325 issue. The main issue was lack of Chinese educators in Chinese vernacular schools. However the rally turned into a whether-the-deputy-minister-got-punched issue. The petty issue of getting punched or not overshadowed the real issue pertaining the future of our children in Chinese school.
We now have politicians who fight for self and party. When can we have politicians for the people?
Having said that, I still can see a few silent fighters who are solving issues and working hard without much publicity. I hope in the next election we the rakyat will need to choose wisely candidates who can reason, thinkers, problem solvers, doers (instead of talkers) and hardworkers to steer our country to great heights. We need to catch up with our neighbours which will be overpassing us soon.
-------
Things just happen, the rest is up to ME to make it GREAT!
Chew Hoong Ling
016-3310325
016-2332993 (BBM)
www.hoongling.com
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Satu Malaysia, Malaysian Malaysia, does it matter?
When I meet a Malay friend, I speak in Malay and when I see a Chinese friend I speak Cantonese, sometimes Mandarin or some broken Hokkien, Hakka, and a phrase of Hainanese "boh bat kong" (I don't know how to speak Hainanese!). Seeing an Indian friend, my tongue twists to Tamil with an immediate "yerperddi irrekerengge?" to ask "how are you?"
At times among Chinese friends, we speak Malay too! One such friend is Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye. From the very beginning of knowing this idol of mine, we speak Malay more often than English or Chinese. Up to now, I still do not know what dialiect is Tan Sri Lee.
When Chinese get together, is normal to ask if you are Hokkien, Hakka, Hainanese, Teo Chew, Foo Chow or Cantonese. Same goes to Indian and Malay friends.
It is in ME that I feel I am a Malaysian, the love for the country no matter what. It is the Malaysian in me that ticks on forms as "Lain-lain" and when asked to specify, I write "Bangsa Malaysia".
It is ME that I feel my country is my world, my country is the best and her name is Malaysia. It is ME because I BE the change I want to see in my country. People are often posted this to ponder "Ask not what the country can do for you but what you can do for the country." I took it seriously and when I put Malaysia in my heart, I do what I can to contribute to all the complaints I have in my mind.
My country is dirty? I clean my own home first.
My country has floods? I first play with flood waters, enjoy them and then help flood victims.
My country is developing lands on hill side? I first protest the action and try to see what else I can do.
My country has low number of organ donors? I first pledge organs myself and then organise more organ donation awareness campaigns.
My country has high road accident rates? I first drive carefully and ensure the safety of others on the road.
My country has high corruption rate? I first ensure I myself don't bribe or take bribes.
My country's inflation is high? Firstly I be frugal. Most often we see people overbuy things and eventually turn to waste.
My country's average income is low? I first educate myself and learn more knowledge to make more money.
My country has bad apples in it? I first be good and BE the change I want to see...
Be the change you want to see in this world ~ Mahatma Gandhi
At times among Chinese friends, we speak Malay too! One such friend is Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye. From the very beginning of knowing this idol of mine, we speak Malay more often than English or Chinese. Up to now, I still do not know what dialiect is Tan Sri Lee.
When Chinese get together, is normal to ask if you are Hokkien, Hakka, Hainanese, Teo Chew, Foo Chow or Cantonese. Same goes to Indian and Malay friends.
It is in ME that I feel I am a Malaysian, the love for the country no matter what. It is the Malaysian in me that ticks on forms as "Lain-lain" and when asked to specify, I write "Bangsa Malaysia".
It is ME that I feel my country is my world, my country is the best and her name is Malaysia. It is ME because I BE the change I want to see in my country. People are often posted this to ponder "Ask not what the country can do for you but what you can do for the country." I took it seriously and when I put Malaysia in my heart, I do what I can to contribute to all the complaints I have in my mind.
My country is dirty? I clean my own home first.
My country has floods? I first play with flood waters, enjoy them and then help flood victims.
My country is developing lands on hill side? I first protest the action and try to see what else I can do.
My country has low number of organ donors? I first pledge organs myself and then organise more organ donation awareness campaigns.
My country has high road accident rates? I first drive carefully and ensure the safety of others on the road.
My country has high corruption rate? I first ensure I myself don't bribe or take bribes.
My country's inflation is high? Firstly I be frugal. Most often we see people overbuy things and eventually turn to waste.
My country's average income is low? I first educate myself and learn more knowledge to make more money.
My country has bad apples in it? I first be good and BE the change I want to see...
Be the change you want to see in this world ~ Mahatma Gandhi
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Celebrate Valentine's Day with a GREEN RIBBON this year
I read the news this afternoon
PAS wants to stop Valentine’s Day celebration
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/2/7/nation/10686706&sec=nation
I wrote to the papers expressing my humble opinion. Delinquents may not need a specific day to indulge in immoral activities but we Asians, who normally are shy to express love, may need a day to dig out the courage to say "I Love You" to spouses, parents, family members and friends. Therefore, why not on a Valentine's Day? So, what is so wrong about celebrating a day to promote love? Why must there be war over such a matter of celebration and also connecting the day with Christianity?
Let's get this a level higher, let us bring Valentine's Day a day of loving one another - regardless of family members or enemies. I know it is difficult but I'd call for all to pledge your organs on Valentine's Day. Let us all wear a green ribbon - which represents organ donation - during Valentine's Day.
PAS wants to stop Valentine’s Day celebration
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/2/7/nation/10686706&sec=nation
Nasrudin said the movement was not out to punish those celebrating Valentine's Day.
“We are also not trying to assume the role of moral police. We are not enforcers.
“But, we want to help save the youngsters from falling into the Valentine's Day trap that promotes immoral activities,” he said.
I wrote to the papers expressing my humble opinion. Delinquents may not need a specific day to indulge in immoral activities but we Asians, who normally are shy to express love, may need a day to dig out the courage to say "I Love You" to spouses, parents, family members and friends. Therefore, why not on a Valentine's Day? So, what is so wrong about celebrating a day to promote love? Why must there be war over such a matter of celebration and also connecting the day with Christianity?
Let's get this a level higher, let us bring Valentine's Day a day of loving one another - regardless of family members or enemies. I know it is difficult but I'd call for all to pledge your organs on Valentine's Day. Let us all wear a green ribbon - which represents organ donation - during Valentine's Day.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
The Malaysians Dilemma
I feel like we are all in a dilemma.
At one hand we do not believe that the BN government could walk its talk, yet we have also seen flaws in the PR-governed states. Both BN and PR are finger pointing each other. The dilemma: how can my country move forward?
At one hand we say stop corruption but at times when in dire needs or organising an event, most of the time many asked an elected representative for funds - citing the myth that politicians have a lot of money. (Read my post at www.fikirlah.my) The dilemma: how can I reduce corruptions? Perhaps it begins with myself.
At one hand we see mainstream media reporting bias news, on the other hand we also see alternative media fool us as if we are stupid. The dilemma: when will we have clear, unbias news? Perhaps is better to use our own brains.
At one hand we always speak up when we feel things are not right but on the other, when asked to stand for election, many of these young vocalist do not dare to. The dilemma: when can we have people who keep talking, finally do something or participate in the government process to better our country?
The dilemmas affect all of us and I strongly feel that those who are vocal enough should bring it to the next level - to participate in the election process and better still stand in the election. We are the third force!
-------
Things just happen, the rest is up to ME to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
www.organdonation.com.my
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
At one hand we do not believe that the BN government could walk its talk, yet we have also seen flaws in the PR-governed states. Both BN and PR are finger pointing each other. The dilemma: how can my country move forward?
At one hand we say stop corruption but at times when in dire needs or organising an event, most of the time many asked an elected representative for funds - citing the myth that politicians have a lot of money. (Read my post at www.fikirlah.my) The dilemma: how can I reduce corruptions? Perhaps it begins with myself.
At one hand we see mainstream media reporting bias news, on the other hand we also see alternative media fool us as if we are stupid. The dilemma: when will we have clear, unbias news? Perhaps is better to use our own brains.
At one hand we always speak up when we feel things are not right but on the other, when asked to stand for election, many of these young vocalist do not dare to. The dilemma: when can we have people who keep talking, finally do something or participate in the government process to better our country?
The dilemmas affect all of us and I strongly feel that those who are vocal enough should bring it to the next level - to participate in the election process and better still stand in the election. We are the third force!
-------
Things just happen, the rest is up to ME to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
www.organdonation.com.my
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Most memorable moment of 2012
Had some unpleasant ending of 2011, well organising an event was never smooth flowing. When I want things done one way, some buggers wat things done another way.
It was an event I managed, I headed, I even sponsored the main prize, yet... Well, is okay, a learning experience.
"When you learn from mistakes, you have never failed at all"
But all good, I've never thought that ending the 2011 with lots of unpleasant moments will mean a beginning of 2012 most memorable.
Right after countdown 2012 we drew a few lucky draws.
Kwangchen, a friend who came all the way from KL to Kuantan to help us set up the settings for Kahwin4.0 - wrote his resolution: 'To win an iPad2 for my son'. We had all participants wrote their 2012 resolution.
This time Kahwin4.0 - JonathanFun had his first press conference prior to the event and gave his first talk at Kahwin4.0. Taeyong came and willingly volunteered to do Live Tweets, PostMeNow_MYSG a new found friend but very close Kahwin4.0 supporter - flew in from Singapore and start helping us as soon as he touched down.
I was at first disappointed with the lack of man power which I thought was arranged, there were people who came and gave suggestions but hands were not moving (a norm in any events), insisted things done their ways but then I have much gratitude to JonathanFun, taeyong, kwangchen and PostMeNow. All came without the need to call, all volunteered to help without the need to give instructions. All automatic volunteers!
And when we had a countdown and greeted everyone Happy New Year, we proceed with the lucky draw which an iPad2 which I so proudly and willingly sponsored. In fact Kuantan version was one most meaningful - all done without meeting - only BBM!
And when we come to the iPad2..... First draw... Announced the name, none took the prize, second name announced the person has left the party... And the third draw came and my eyes popped opened wide... The name on the resolution chit was '@kwangchen'!
My heart pounded hard, I felt so happy!
The most memorable moments...
1. I un-virgin-ised Jonathan with his first experience in giving a talk and having a press conference
2. I realised kwangchen's dream in getting an iPad2 for his son. He is a close friend despite from the opposition parties yet very supportive and always a true friend. When I did kayakforhumanity without much funds, he sponsored us whatever he could. Having an iPad2 for him is nothing a gift I would be giving him for his sincerity
3. Taeyong - never met for so long and came to support! She too, as all good people, got a prize!
4. I learnt a lot - and I believed I handled well a situation which I unwillingly do it but out of patience and wisdom, I had to do it but I'm happy now I've done this way instead of hard knocking ad bulldozing my way
As I sing songs in karaoke now with the group of friends, I really appreciate the past weeks - good and bad - what had happened.
2012 will be my year...
-------
Things just happen, the rest is up to ME to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
www.organdonation.com.my
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Thursday, December 29, 2011
I was offered..... (And it takes courage)
I appreciate thus far to take bold courageous moves in my life. There were many times I couldn't believe I took the courage to do things I was offered.
In school, I was offered.... To be a prefect. I've NEVER thought I could assume a role which could be considered a leader in school. I was naughty, I punched my kindergarten teacher, slapped my primary school teacher and argued with my headmistress. No one would ever think I can lead but that's where my turning point was...
I was offered.... To assume roles in youth organisations and I did well. In fact I founded Pandan Jaya Neighbourhood Watch, numerous programs and recently the Voice of Women.
I was offered.... An opportunity to save a live, a stranger whom I didn't know. Now as I looked back, I really didn't know how I said yes but I'm glad I did. It was the best joy of giving I had in life.
I was offered.... An opportunity to publish my book. Anas helped me. And I'm so glad that the book had now inspired many and helped many people make decision to pledge their organs.
I was offered... To work with Dato Sri Ong Tee Keat. Learnt a lot to WALK THE TALK. I've been talking about organ donation for 16 years and it was time for me to DO IT and I did it while I'm alive.
I've learnt that it is less valuable to talk (or in this technology world, tweet/FB) but it is important to PARTICIPATE in the decision making process and make a difference. I learnt that those who only tweet/update FB but dare not, will not or better not participate to DO SOMETHING has no relevance.
Think! You only talk but dare not take up the challenge to work on things which could benefit people. At the very least, give suggestions to make things better - not just talk and condemn at all times. I've openly stated this opinion even in the mass media.
And then.... I was offered
To contest in the election. My first response to it - THREE BIG NO... No No No! It wasn't until long 'lectures' from friends and rethinking my earlier paragraph of this blog, thinking deeply I actually said no to THREE things.
I said No because I still enjoy people saying good things about me - who doesn't? I said NO because I don't think I want to work as hard as politicians who really served the people. And I said NO because I didn't want to associate with a party, a President or a coalition many people said was dirty, tainted and losing touch.
Yet the biggest NO was because I was just chickening out. I asked myself again and again, how long can I live in a wonderland? And as dirty a party is, why not I be in it to clean it? Why must I get into it and get dirty myself? As much as I've always been talking about how dirty politics is, what have I done to reverse it and what have I done to make a difference?
Given another chance I'll say Yes Yes Yes. It doesn't matter if people say I'm dirty, I'm losing grounds/sanity, accusing me of being a betrayer, accusing me of being in politics for self gains, accusing me of choosing the wrong party wrong President. I will say yes for THREE big reasons.
I want to serve ad that's what I've always been doing. I'd say yes again because I want people to know that talking is cheap, doing something takes courage. And I truly believe I can make a difference because I've done it.
I already realised even giving my liver invited negative responses, what more being in politics and especially with one with a President some people think is tainted? So be it, I know what I want and most importantly what I want to achieve. If you'd like to support me, please give me constant reminders NOT to be 'like them'. I think you guys understand what I mean.
I recall a ZEN comic.
Student: Teacher, you are so noble you should go to heaven
Teacher: I will go to hell
Student: Why so?
Teacher: It is so dirty in hell, if I don't go to hell, who will help them?
Student: Bow
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Things just happen, the rest is up to ME to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
www.organdonation.com.my
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Friday, December 23, 2011
Tokleh tehe: In Malaysia you cannot even admit your mistakes openly
I have never said I am a total neutral. I am always a BN supporter but I also criticise BN if I think what they do is too much. Yet, there are times I also agree a lot with the PR for certain things done right. I am always a centrist leaning towards BN all these while if all you have not yet noticed.
Many close friends know well I am a BN fellow.
Therefore, while I attended many functions within DAP, PKR and the Selangor government, I was still a member of a party within BN coalition. I have friends from both coalition and during Tenang By-Election, I even attended both BN and PR camps!
Ask anyone, I have always invited both the coalition in things I do, particularly instrumental as the ONLY one who would interviewed YB Chang Lih Kang, YB Elizabeth Wong during the Youth Lab, listed among others Nurul Izzah and Nik Nazmi as politic youth icons in my reports.
Yet, when I invited Dato' Sri Dr Chua Soi Lek as a speaker in Kahwin4.0 Youth Forum, all sorts of comments come about. They forgot that their enemy could be Soi Lek himself, but they dragged me into it by calling me "losing political neutrality", "losing dignity". Kahwin4.0 is a youth forum and a forum initiated by myself. I think I hold the rights to invite any leaders I feel worth a discussion.
Funny thing was, these comments only come from people who have NOT attended the forum! They did not know WHAT Kahwin4.0 stands for, they did not know what Kahwin4.0 is all about and they did not know WHY Soi Lek was chosen. Yet, many assumed it was a marriage talk, accusing how Soi Lek could talk about marriage and all kinds of "women should not invite Soi Lek to any events"
And yet, DURING the forum, I was literally SHOCKED to see women walking passed our venue of event voluntarily wanting to listen to the very man people said was TAINTED. Another shocker came when a female would stood up and said "This is the first time I met you and I have all the respect for you for your dignity to take responsible for what you have done and resigned at that time." And after the event, I have this cool duckie said this:
Had fair share of accusements, finger pointing, names calling, tweet "siege" (????) and bombarded by many!
By organising this close door (close door some more!!) youth forum alone, even my friends could call me "losing political neutrality" just because of one event. Never finding out who wrote the website content - by taking a look at it, I was accused as too complimentary in the content towards the man we invited.
Now I understand that a friend could be otherwise just because you invite his opponent/enemy or someone he dislikes, to an event. Now where did common sense or friendship go?
I sometimes hated people but I have never lose respect by calling names or pass certain remarks despite how bad the person has been to me. I recall a person whom I can still may never be able to forgive but yet I still respect all his achievements and accomplishments. Even till now, when someone bad mouth about him, I will still say the good things he has done.
Just like my cute yellow duckie friend said... On a professional level we respect Soi Lek... but his personal life is not for us to judge. All of us made mistakes and have our own idiosyncrasies.
This man had the dignity to admit his mistake OPENLY, dealt with his family members and resigned. Who in Malaysia has done the same, please raise your hands and you could be someone I'd like to interview too. :)
Come constant accusing.... I will invite the man to more events! Thank you friends who gave me a good birthday lesson.
Many close friends know well I am a BN fellow.
Therefore, while I attended many functions within DAP, PKR and the Selangor government, I was still a member of a party within BN coalition. I have friends from both coalition and during Tenang By-Election, I even attended both BN and PR camps!
Ask anyone, I have always invited both the coalition in things I do, particularly instrumental as the ONLY one who would interviewed YB Chang Lih Kang, YB Elizabeth Wong during the Youth Lab, listed among others Nurul Izzah and Nik Nazmi as politic youth icons in my reports.
Yet, when I invited Dato' Sri Dr Chua Soi Lek as a speaker in Kahwin4.0 Youth Forum, all sorts of comments come about. They forgot that their enemy could be Soi Lek himself, but they dragged me into it by calling me "losing political neutrality", "losing dignity". Kahwin4.0 is a youth forum and a forum initiated by myself. I think I hold the rights to invite any leaders I feel worth a discussion.
Funny thing was, these comments only come from people who have NOT attended the forum! They did not know WHAT Kahwin4.0 stands for, they did not know what Kahwin4.0 is all about and they did not know WHY Soi Lek was chosen. Yet, many assumed it was a marriage talk, accusing how Soi Lek could talk about marriage and all kinds of "women should not invite Soi Lek to any events"
And yet, DURING the forum, I was literally SHOCKED to see women walking passed our venue of event voluntarily wanting to listen to the very man people said was TAINTED. Another shocker came when a female would stood up and said "This is the first time I met you and I have all the respect for you for your dignity to take responsible for what you have done and resigned at that time." And after the event, I have this cool duckie said this:
Had fair share of accusements, finger pointing, names calling, tweet "siege" (????) and bombarded by many!
By organising this close door (close door some more!!) youth forum alone, even my friends could call me "losing political neutrality" just because of one event. Never finding out who wrote the website content - by taking a look at it, I was accused as too complimentary in the content towards the man we invited.
Now I understand that a friend could be otherwise just because you invite his opponent/enemy or someone he dislikes, to an event. Now where did common sense or friendship go?
I sometimes hated people but I have never lose respect by calling names or pass certain remarks despite how bad the person has been to me. I recall a person whom I can still may never be able to forgive but yet I still respect all his achievements and accomplishments. Even till now, when someone bad mouth about him, I will still say the good things he has done.
Just like my cute yellow duckie friend said... On a professional level we respect Soi Lek... but his personal life is not for us to judge. All of us made mistakes and have our own idiosyncrasies.
This man had the dignity to admit his mistake OPENLY, dealt with his family members and resigned. Who in Malaysia has done the same, please raise your hands and you could be someone I'd like to interview too. :)
Come constant accusing.... I will invite the man to more events! Thank you friends who gave me a good birthday lesson.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
How to vote during elections
I read Anas' blog with interest, not because he has my name in it but because it provoke thoughts and encourage people to think how to vote.
His blog post here http://letusaddvalue.blogspot.com/2011/12/how-and-who-to-vote-in-next-general.html
For me I'd vote for individuals who could do good for the country regardless of parties.
Some criteria I'm looking at are:
1. DO something
I'd look for past track records of a candidate and see if he or she has done a noble cause or at least a project to benefit the community. Doing a project does not mean just funding it or attending as a Guest of Honor. Personally manage a project from the beginning till it produces results and benefit the people. Because we have too many politicians who can talk and talk and talk but just CANNOT DO things. Therefore first thing first - someone who have done something. I don't care if the project failed as long as he has tried. If the project failed, better still! And he must learn from the mistakes.
2. Consistency in his beliefs
I always believe politicians who fight for a cause consistently is better than those who speak of an issue just to seek popularity. It is perfectly OK that he changes his stand upon learning some new facts or adapt his stand to current situations but he must fight it consistently.
3. Socially advocate, commercially sustainability
I'm a strong believer of social enterprise, social businesses and corporate for social good. I don't think any social organisation can survive at this situation without having sustainability factor. Thus, my candidate cannot keep fighting for social good but never think of commercial values or sustainability of it. I've seen so many politicians going against commercially viable companies or detest to businesses. To them businesses are for greedy corrupt people but to me, it sustain the economy, give jobs and if it is a social business it gives social impact.
4. Very universal and accepted by all races and communities
He or she must believe in the 1Malaysia spirit, Malaysian Malaysia or whatever you call it. Someone who the Malays feel comfortable with, the Chinese feel represented, the Indians feel secured with him.
5. Down to earth and truly approachable
During elections, we see candidates go house to house to campaign. Between elections, we don't see the representative visits our houses anymore. That again is not consistency. Worse still there are politicians who never ever show up or do anything after winning elections. I want a MP who is there when we have voice to bring to the Parliament and help make the constituency a better place. Even when not invited he'd say he'll support an event or program
6. NOT giving goodies as approach for charities etc
I saw so much money being spent during elections and people too take advantage of elections to make money. I strongly oppose to this culture. THINK - if politicians give money, where will the money come from? They will need to seek projects, dwell into corruptions just to please people with money. If you are happy with receiving money from your MP then don't talk about eradicating corruptions. If you talk about eradicating corruption, stop asking MPs for money which is out of their budget. If the candidate continue giving money to the public and out of his budget, I do not think he can stay uncorrupted, so I will not vote for him. He should provide innovative solutions for sustainability and not continuously funding his constituents.
7. READ
This may be a simple criteria but I've also seen representatives of the rakyat who do not read to expand their knowledge.
Perhaps more people can come up with your own criteria list for a candidate or how to vote during election, will encourage more people to rationally choose a representative rather than voting emotionally.
I'd think people who fit my criteria perhaps are:
1. Marina Mahathir
2. Chandra Muzaffar
3. Anas Zubedy
4. Syed Akbar Ali
5. Zainah Anwar, Sisters in Islam
Ok lahhh I know you want young people
1. Lim Chee Wee, Bar Council
2. Edmund Bon, LoyarBurok
3. Syahredzan, MyConsti
4. Saifuddin Abdullah, Deputy Minister of Higher Education
5. Wee Ka Siong, Deputy Minister of Education
More women candidates preferably:
6. Nicole Wong, Beliawanis MCA
7. Kat Wong, INSAP Deputy Director
8. Fui K. Soong, CEO os CENSE
9. Ellynita Lamin, cancer survivor and social entrepreneur
10. Ng Yeen Seen, policy analyst
Prefer to have 'OKU' as well
11. Zhariff Afandi, social entrepreneur
12. Anthony Thanasayan, activist for the disabled and The Star columnist
13. Sia Siew Chin, Beautiful Gate
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Things just happen, the rest is up to ME to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
www.organdonation.com.my
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Friday, December 2, 2011
Tokleh Tehe: Role of a Social Media Strategist
Is there even such a title? Social Media Strategist?
And perhaps expenses spent by Ministry of Tourism for social media has open the eyes of many Malaysians.
Yes, I believe a social media strategist should be paid and should be highly paid. I do not want to defend the ministry involved but if that much of money spent and effectiveness of the strategies evaluated, I think it should bring more wealth in tourism dollars to the country.
Enough said, this blogpost is on social media strategist. Many Malaysians limit their knowledge of social media to only Facebook and Twitter, yet there are hundreds of applications out there which are so called social media.
Just like branding is so important for a company (and no one would blame you for paying huge sum for branding because people know its importance), social media weighs heavier than brand alone.
A social media strategist or consultant will act as brand consultant, marketing communication, corporate communication, public management, sample management, even event manager at the same time.
He is responsible for generating content, updates and consistent engagement with his client's followers on social media. A minimum of three updates per day on Facebook, a whooping 20 tweets per day as a rough target.
He will create content, updates and statuses fun with hypermedia. And if you think is easy work, try think of 1000 new updates for a certain brand - that's enough to squeeze the juice out of your brains.
He also monitors comments, retweets, mentions and if there are complaints by followers at large. He will need to rectify errors, apologise on behalf, provide explanation - exactly what a corporate communication department should do.
More over, his tasks, just like a salesman, has number of followers to increase. He also guards the standardisation, language, professionalism and reflects the company as a whole.
He is also a marketing researcher, having the needs to understand geographical, demographic and interests of client's followers. He may also well be a programmer, to program landing pages, database collection and codes applications like games or contest pages to attract and engage with followers.
All in all, in Chinese we call them a One Leg Kick.
I can have my nephew sit in front of the laptop, make him admin for my Facebook Like page but God knows how many UNfollowers I will have in the next hour.
And to have the politicians criticise that the amount paid is too huge, it is an insult to a social media strategist whose works include all the above.
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Things just happen, the rest is up to ME to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
www.organdonation.com.my
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
And perhaps expenses spent by Ministry of Tourism for social media has open the eyes of many Malaysians.
Yes, I believe a social media strategist should be paid and should be highly paid. I do not want to defend the ministry involved but if that much of money spent and effectiveness of the strategies evaluated, I think it should bring more wealth in tourism dollars to the country.
Enough said, this blogpost is on social media strategist. Many Malaysians limit their knowledge of social media to only Facebook and Twitter, yet there are hundreds of applications out there which are so called social media.
Just like branding is so important for a company (and no one would blame you for paying huge sum for branding because people know its importance), social media weighs heavier than brand alone.
A social media strategist or consultant will act as brand consultant, marketing communication, corporate communication, public management, sample management, even event manager at the same time.
He is responsible for generating content, updates and consistent engagement with his client's followers on social media. A minimum of three updates per day on Facebook, a whooping 20 tweets per day as a rough target.
He will create content, updates and statuses fun with hypermedia. And if you think is easy work, try think of 1000 new updates for a certain brand - that's enough to squeeze the juice out of your brains.
He also monitors comments, retweets, mentions and if there are complaints by followers at large. He will need to rectify errors, apologise on behalf, provide explanation - exactly what a corporate communication department should do.
More over, his tasks, just like a salesman, has number of followers to increase. He also guards the standardisation, language, professionalism and reflects the company as a whole.
He is also a marketing researcher, having the needs to understand geographical, demographic and interests of client's followers. He may also well be a programmer, to program landing pages, database collection and codes applications like games or contest pages to attract and engage with followers.
All in all, in Chinese we call them a One Leg Kick.
I can have my nephew sit in front of the laptop, make him admin for my Facebook Like page but God knows how many UNfollowers I will have in the next hour.
And to have the politicians criticise that the amount paid is too huge, it is an insult to a social media strategist whose works include all the above.
-------
Things just happen, the rest is up to ME to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
www.organdonation.com.my
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Sunday, October 23, 2011
I'm shy
Many people see I have the confidence, can talk all way non-stop, engage crowds, joke and add laughters...
But in real fact, I'm shy. Yes, repeat 'I'm shy'. My old time friend will definitely strongly oppose to this. Well, last time I knew the Hoong Ling who would start a conversation out of thin air. A stranger with me in the same LRT will be friends and exchange numbers by the time we reach destination. Someone waiting for a bus at the bus stop can be instant friends and we can come out for a drink anytime.
Let me lay out...
I think it first started after my operation. I have time for myself, love myself even more and notice my own behaviour. I know I developed fear to large crowds since then because fear of people will bump to me and hurt my 14-inch scar which was still healing at that time. Today I am still healing after laser treatment to remove the scar last week.
Therefore yesterday, I did not go to the OctTwtFest October Tweet Fest which I really wanted to.
In a first meet, you will see I'm very quiet if the whole table has all new friends. Say, in a table of 10 if I only have 2-3 acquaintances, I'll be keeping quiet the whole meeting. Evident!
I was quiet the whole meeting during tweetup held by YB KhairyJ (I knew only 2 people there in a group of about 20), quiet during first lunch meet with a think tank team (I knew only 2 in a group of 10), quiet whole time for first days of Youth Lab (I knew no one there on the first day!).
Unless say, in a group of 10, I have 5 or more are friends already, I'd speak, joke, laugh and talk. When I'm asked to sit at a wedding table with all new people, I'd not speak a word the whole night too.
If a whole table of strangers, I won't even turn up!
Dual personalities you may say. For a radio deejay who can open conversations and ask all sort of questions on air, for a professional emcee who can emcee so well in front of huge audience of strangers and for an inspirational speaker who can speak to all unknown people internationally, who would imagine a shy one who will keep quiet at dinners?
Well when passion flows, everything seems to catch the flow pretty easily. I emcee since school days in 1993 and find I can make an event more meaningful, add values to a lively function and that has always been my goal every time I emcee.
I'm shy with the media, yes! I am shy with the media and also rejected many interviews until I was being reminded that each time I talk or being interviewed, I'm not talking on behalf of 'Hoong Ling'. I'm speaking on behalf of the social causes I champion. And the topic I speak, to many, carries inspiration and motivation. So there I went ahead, countering all the shyness, fears, phobia you call it, to spread awareness in organ donation, speak my heart on gender equality and braved my fears in meeting strangers.
Deejaying on DurianFM was a new experience and speaking to the mics only do not need much courage to kill fears and shyness. So far if you noticed, guests invited to my slot were all friends and I'd prefer whoever who wants to come on air to just tell me and I'd always welcome a partner in studio. If you were to ask me to invite a stranger, perhaps that will be new experience too.
But you were TV Presenter on Selamat Pagi Malaysia interviewing strangers all the time! Yes but in studio, we have 2 TV Presenters to one or two guests, balanced. And producers, cameramen are my friends too - covered!
But you are eloquent as panel speaker at talk shows. If the topic is passionate to my heart, I'd put the topic forefront and fears behind.
So some said I'm proud to meet up, some said I was arrogant not to call others to studio for interviews, some even accused I'm snobbish that I won't seek others' opinions other than my friends'.
Say all you want though, I'm only a Chew Hoong Ling, your greatest servant.
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Things just happen, the rest is up to us to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Saturday, September 24, 2011
My Dream Funeral
I've always think I've done almost anything I need to do and even at one point of time thought I can now go deep in the jungle and meditate, be a nun or something to spend the rest of time life.
Thus far I hope things I've done never offend people, do not create negativities and hopefully have inspired a person or two, perhaps touched some lives.
I always think 'What if I die the next moment?' Have I done all that I could to prepare for death?
I have no regrets, no grievances, just perhaps some words left unsaid (which sometimes better off this way), hmmmm all these made me dare to die - putting myself on the operation table to part with 60% of liver, facing death at Kayak for Humanity expedition.
But I want to tell people my dream funeral. When I die I can't tell people about this so I better blog this so you guys know what I want. Yesterday I had dinner with a group of fun, happy people and when I mentioned my dream funeral, everyone seems to echoed and suggested something which just click on my dream funeral! Happy people think alike!
1. First rule, NO tears allowed
2. Karaoke is a must and I want everyone to sing!
3. Bring on the mahjong tables
4. Play bingo games, card games, board games, Wii games, Playstation games all you want!
5. Only happy news allowed, no one can come and complain or utter any grievances.
6. CKGord suggested face painting for my face and grafitti of my casket. Please use orange as the theme, my favourite colour.
7. Attire: up to you, colour: preferably orange!
8. If I'm married and I die before my husband, my husband must already start looking for another partner for the rest of his life.
9. All useable organs and tissues must be donated.
If you do all these, I will live forever.
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Things just happen, the rest is up to us to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Thus far I hope things I've done never offend people, do not create negativities and hopefully have inspired a person or two, perhaps touched some lives.
I always think 'What if I die the next moment?' Have I done all that I could to prepare for death?
I have no regrets, no grievances, just perhaps some words left unsaid (which sometimes better off this way), hmmmm all these made me dare to die - putting myself on the operation table to part with 60% of liver, facing death at Kayak for Humanity expedition.
But I want to tell people my dream funeral. When I die I can't tell people about this so I better blog this so you guys know what I want. Yesterday I had dinner with a group of fun, happy people and when I mentioned my dream funeral, everyone seems to echoed and suggested something which just click on my dream funeral! Happy people think alike!
1. First rule, NO tears allowed
2. Karaoke is a must and I want everyone to sing!
3. Bring on the mahjong tables
4. Play bingo games, card games, board games, Wii games, Playstation games all you want!
5. Only happy news allowed, no one can come and complain or utter any grievances.
6. CKGord suggested face painting for my face and grafitti of my casket. Please use orange as the theme, my favourite colour.
7. Attire: up to you, colour: preferably orange!
8. If I'm married and I die before my husband, my husband must already start looking for another partner for the rest of his life.
9. All useable organs and tissues must be donated.
If you do all these, I will live forever.
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Things just happen, the rest is up to us to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Friday, September 9, 2011
I am very rich and wealthy!
Again, I grew up to understand giving is always better than receiving, service above self and give first then take.
Yet, learning to receive to empower the givers the joy of giving, was what to me most difficult to learn.
Since young, when someone is good to me, I always have the feeling that someday I'll need to repay them to show gratitude. At one point of time, I received so much ang pau money during Chinese New Year, I vowed that I MUST be rich.
I told myself there are so many people I want to take care of. Sure enough my parents, my aunt and uncle who brought me up, my Ipoh aunt who never fail to take care of me and my many relatives who have been very kind to me. If I'm not rich how can I repay them, I thought.
My skin is sensitive. If I wear something fake like imitation gold necklace, steel ring or earrings, I'll have rashes and itching. Thus if I'm not rich, how can I buy authentic jewelries, I thought.
I have a taste for luxury. Of all nuts, I don't like peanuts but love macadamias, one of the higher end nuts in terms of price tag. I enjoy scallops and abalone best although there are still certain foods considered luxury barely could enter my mouth. Again, if I'm not rich how to savour all these delicacies?
Giving to charity is my passion. I just can't help working for free, doing things for free and volunteer for free. Even in business, as a professional emcee I still allocate 5% of all my income for charity. I always tell myself I MUST be rich enough to do all of my passion!
Although it doesn't show, I also love a Mercedes Benz. Despite satisfied with my good old Proton Iswara which serves me very well, I will also daydream of one day my dream come true to own a Mercedes. So how can I not be rich?
My Dad loves China, Mom loves Macau and Las Vegas so how not to be rich when I too dream of luxury holidays!
Therefore I must be rich and wealthy. But when all things start with the seeds of thoughts, I've already planted seeds of being rich in myself and guess who will be the next millionaire? Me, of course! :)
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Things just happen, the rest is up to us to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Sunday, September 4, 2011
The gift of hearing
Some of my friends recalled our primary school teacher who just like to slap us as punishment and asked if I was deafen by the slaps. I guess not.
Some asked, what's the difference between having both hearing and one side of hearing? I couldn't tell the difference! But later in school we learnt that both ears are to collect information and determine where sound comes from. True enough, if you call me from the left, I'd still look at the right side because that's the working ear and sound I heard only from the left. Funny people will always say 'here! Here!' to indicate their locations and I'd still look around on my right. Those who know about my problem will say, 'on left left! Look a bit more to the left' or 'behind you!'
At dinners, I'd only sit to a person's left side so I could hear him or her on my right ear. So on my left will be guests or new friends who do not know about my hearing loss. People tend to talk and I can't hear and some thought I'm arrogant for not replying. Or I may participate in the conversation but I'll need to turn so much to the left that my neck sores after a while. Good for neck exercise though!
When driving, a honk will make me turn around, look at mirrors to see if I'm the one being honked at.
It wasn't until more people whispering to me on the left that I finally gave up and seek need of a hearing aid. As a professional emcee, very often people run to me to whisper things to announce but they find themselves repeating again when I turn my good ear to them.
A hearing aid these days is not just an amplifier to amplify sounds. Hearing aids have digital noise reduction, multiple channels input, speech recognition, multiple channels selections, up to 20 channels output speaker, multi colours, multi function, multi program, even comes with music, linking to bluetooth devices, remote controls and many more different features.
Thus its price is also in the high range depending on the models. Staring at RM1,000 which normally only amplify sounds including background noise and will be difficult to listen to people talking, up to RM20,000 with bluetooth, remote control and all accessories.
Having know that, and knowing I need a good aid, I playfully posted on Twitter 'seriously need a hearing aid, who want to sponsor me?'. To my surprise, Tan Sri Kua Sian Kooi said he will. He also repeatedly asked for my name and account number.
We have not met and many of you know how difficult it was for me to receive things from others. Growing up with 'give first', 'giving is better than receiving', 'service before self', I find myself rather difficult in taking, which I knew I need to correct this. A friend said by taking when people give sincerely, I'm also giving, giving them the joy of giving I've always enjoyed.
I don't know someone by just @skkua as his twitter handle and profile says 'Kurnia Insurance founder and chairman'. When I asked and a friend said 'Tan Sri Kua?' Only did I know he is a Tan Sri. He said he's a close friend to Tan Sri Fong Chan Onn and in a few more days, Tan Sri Fong himself messaged me to say 'a friend want to give you hearing aid, can you accept?'
Cornered with guilt, hey when will you have two Tan Sris asking you to receive a sincere gift? We came out for lunch one day for a chat after I surveyed on a few models which may suit me. I proposed a mid range but Tan Sri wanted me to have a good one.
Now I'm walking tall as I can hear with both ears! Left ear, though is aided, but has more functions! Nothing beats natural hearing like my right ear but my hearing aid has got 5 channels to suit any environment, even comes with Zen music at a press of a button. It costs RM9,800 and I wouldn't have gotten my ear without Tan Sri Kua Sian Kooi.
Thank you and when I see Kurnia sign everywhere, I always point to the logo and tell people around me that my ear is sponsored by the boss of this company.
And he owns Kurnia, he kurniakan telinga to me. I gave a gift of life to someone, the gift of hearing to me almost equates that.
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Things just happen, the rest is up to us to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Are you rich?
My friend asked me a question, 'Hoong Ling, are you rich?'
'Of course I am! I have a body of silver, a heart of gold, platinum plated and lined with titanium!'
Everyone burst out laughing at my response.
Today I saw a friend posting on her Facebook, 'If you ever want to know how rich you are, just count all the things you have that money can't buy'
I agree with that and I'd think that is true riches. Count not the money you have in the bank but the blessings you have that money really can't buy.
I recently just calculated my nett cash and found a meagre RM2606.39 as the number, of course struggling without a job for two years and my deep passion in social causes I'm currently working on. A 9-5 job will not allow me to 'work' on things I love to do most - social works. Therefore I chose to do my own works by offering professional emceeing. That's my only income for the moment and every month I'd take 3-4 jobs, enough to live a comfortable living.
Of course I still have 2 properties to collect rental, minus off all expenses, I have RM250 passive incomes!
However, I'm rich! Really rich! Every night before I sleep I count my blessings... I post my #gratitude on Facebook and Twitter at times and I truly feel blessed.
Money can't buy my breaths and the fact that I'm still breathing is a blessing. I risked my life on an operation theatre to save a stranger by giving 60% of my liver. I cheated death twice during Kayak For Humanity - once during training near the whirlpools and once facing 17ft waves.
Money can't buy or choose my parents and I have both very differing thoughts one. I lived with both thoughts and learnt to listen to both views and angle of views.
Money definitely can't buy my friends and I have a lottttttt of great companies around me! I have my friends since school days hanging out together even until now. I have 3 great mentors - all great guys - one memory expert, one deputy minister and one famous training and marketing expert. I have friends whom I everyday receive comments so I can improve. And I have a cool bunch of Twitter friends whom we have monthly bah kut teh in Klang, eat, drink, sing karaoke and political discussions...
Money cannot buy experience and I'm truly glad I have opportunities to walk a journey less or seldom traveled by others. My life is always full of challenges, or shall I say the paths I daringly take always give me experience I can't find elsewhere. Rather, the people I'm with also gave me much opportunities - although I'm always frank, direct, straightforward and sometimes considered rude, I have my ex-bosses who are all very educating and taught me lessons in life.
My first boss gave me an opportunity to be a supervisor after a month being a cashier and taught me that I must always consider the person giving me opportunities. I wanted to resign after a while, which could put him in very difficult position because he has fought for my promotion and salary. My last company put me in a position where I'm very much empowered to do a lot of things, further taught me to win a battle, not just a war. Other experiences include being a TV Presenter on Selamat Pagi Malaysia even when in college and I was without experience at all. Money definitely couldn't buy all these.
Money cannot buy sincere hearts who sincerely want to give me things I need or want. I've learned that giving is better than receiving and I always have the joy of giving and that joy kept me giving but to receive, I always feel a guilt and embarrassment in myself. Friends said I'm selfish but I didn't see how giving more than receiving can be selfish. He said if I refused to receive I'm deprive others the joy of giving. I learn to receive.
Recently a new friend Tan Sri Kua Sian Kooi has offered to buy me a hearing aid which I'll need on my left ear. A genuine heart to sincerely give me a gift of hearing. I hesitated at first, knowing a hearing aid can be very expensive, knowing Tan Sri Kua only as @skkua on Twitter, and somehow I was taught since young not to mingle with the rich or they will think you want something from them. But I've never met a more sincere heart than his. He is unlike some people who merely say or talk about helping others but expecting the person to go through tough process, I have met many. Instead Tan Sri Kua is the humblest rich man I've ever seen, most sincere by repeatedly asking me for my account number and even had a lunch session arranged.
I can't describe how excited I was when I went to two hearing aid shops to test my ears and find out the models which suit me. During lunch this week, I showed Tan Sri a few models but chose one that really suit my ear. There were bluetooth models, remote control, multi-channels, multi colours, even with programmable music. I will forgo the bluetooth and colours but will need a high number of channels, background noise reduction, feedbacks handling and the model I chose comes with music in the ears!
It is really not cheap though, bluetooth models can go up to a whooping RM15,000 and the model I chose ranges from RM5,000 (5 channels) to RM10,000 (15 channels). I thought to take a mid range of 10 channels which could cost RM7k-8k but Tan Sri really wants to give me a good one and I finally can't contain my excitement to get the 15 channels one.
I'm looking very much forward to hear with both ears again and I count these blessings everyday.
THANK YOU Tan Sri Kua! A gift of hearing is one best gift for me!
-------
Things just happen, the rest is up to us to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
'Of course I am! I have a body of silver, a heart of gold, platinum plated and lined with titanium!'
Everyone burst out laughing at my response.
Today I saw a friend posting on her Facebook, 'If you ever want to know how rich you are, just count all the things you have that money can't buy'
I agree with that and I'd think that is true riches. Count not the money you have in the bank but the blessings you have that money really can't buy.
I recently just calculated my nett cash and found a meagre RM2606.39 as the number, of course struggling without a job for two years and my deep passion in social causes I'm currently working on. A 9-5 job will not allow me to 'work' on things I love to do most - social works. Therefore I chose to do my own works by offering professional emceeing. That's my only income for the moment and every month I'd take 3-4 jobs, enough to live a comfortable living.
Of course I still have 2 properties to collect rental, minus off all expenses, I have RM250 passive incomes!
However, I'm rich! Really rich! Every night before I sleep I count my blessings... I post my #gratitude on Facebook and Twitter at times and I truly feel blessed.
Money can't buy my breaths and the fact that I'm still breathing is a blessing. I risked my life on an operation theatre to save a stranger by giving 60% of my liver. I cheated death twice during Kayak For Humanity - once during training near the whirlpools and once facing 17ft waves.
Money can't buy or choose my parents and I have both very differing thoughts one. I lived with both thoughts and learnt to listen to both views and angle of views.
Money definitely can't buy my friends and I have a lottttttt of great companies around me! I have my friends since school days hanging out together even until now. I have 3 great mentors - all great guys - one memory expert, one deputy minister and one famous training and marketing expert. I have friends whom I everyday receive comments so I can improve. And I have a cool bunch of Twitter friends whom we have monthly bah kut teh in Klang, eat, drink, sing karaoke and political discussions...
Money cannot buy experience and I'm truly glad I have opportunities to walk a journey less or seldom traveled by others. My life is always full of challenges, or shall I say the paths I daringly take always give me experience I can't find elsewhere. Rather, the people I'm with also gave me much opportunities - although I'm always frank, direct, straightforward and sometimes considered rude, I have my ex-bosses who are all very educating and taught me lessons in life.
My first boss gave me an opportunity to be a supervisor after a month being a cashier and taught me that I must always consider the person giving me opportunities. I wanted to resign after a while, which could put him in very difficult position because he has fought for my promotion and salary. My last company put me in a position where I'm very much empowered to do a lot of things, further taught me to win a battle, not just a war. Other experiences include being a TV Presenter on Selamat Pagi Malaysia even when in college and I was without experience at all. Money definitely couldn't buy all these.
Money cannot buy sincere hearts who sincerely want to give me things I need or want. I've learned that giving is better than receiving and I always have the joy of giving and that joy kept me giving but to receive, I always feel a guilt and embarrassment in myself. Friends said I'm selfish but I didn't see how giving more than receiving can be selfish. He said if I refused to receive I'm deprive others the joy of giving. I learn to receive.
Recently a new friend Tan Sri Kua Sian Kooi has offered to buy me a hearing aid which I'll need on my left ear. A genuine heart to sincerely give me a gift of hearing. I hesitated at first, knowing a hearing aid can be very expensive, knowing Tan Sri Kua only as @skkua on Twitter, and somehow I was taught since young not to mingle with the rich or they will think you want something from them. But I've never met a more sincere heart than his. He is unlike some people who merely say or talk about helping others but expecting the person to go through tough process, I have met many. Instead Tan Sri Kua is the humblest rich man I've ever seen, most sincere by repeatedly asking me for my account number and even had a lunch session arranged.
I can't describe how excited I was when I went to two hearing aid shops to test my ears and find out the models which suit me. During lunch this week, I showed Tan Sri a few models but chose one that really suit my ear. There were bluetooth models, remote control, multi-channels, multi colours, even with programmable music. I will forgo the bluetooth and colours but will need a high number of channels, background noise reduction, feedbacks handling and the model I chose comes with music in the ears!
It is really not cheap though, bluetooth models can go up to a whooping RM15,000 and the model I chose ranges from RM5,000 (5 channels) to RM10,000 (15 channels). I thought to take a mid range of 10 channels which could cost RM7k-8k but Tan Sri really wants to give me a good one and I finally can't contain my excitement to get the 15 channels one.
I'm looking very much forward to hear with both ears again and I count these blessings everyday.
THANK YOU Tan Sri Kua! A gift of hearing is one best gift for me!
-------
Things just happen, the rest is up to us to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Government must listen! PR BN listen up, please
We are in a new era of the world. Everyone grows up, learns something new and gains from experience and move on in life more maturedly.
Just like human, all industries go through a cycle of learning curve too. From fishing and farming for own family, to barter trade and then trading, human has grown more complicated. From agriculture to industry based country too and in future knowledge and the brains will rule the country.
Thus, all human should also grow up and learn. We have seen how hard labour does not bring much values anymore. Our great grandfathers depended on an era what called 'hard work' is now gone. As long as you worked hard, tanam your own sayur, you survived.
Then we see people who could trade the more wins. And from fishing for the family, the industry became huge with more sophisticated vessels and some people trying to get bigger cut by issueing permits or licences and introduced forms of taxes.
Thus, human see a need to pay the 'master' although they worked hard and survived. Yet, the complexity of human society evolved and therefore adaptation is important. Failing to adapt to change brings disaster.
From trading either products or services, we also see that the industry evolve. More and more people doing the same thing ie coffee shops booming like mushrooms, the business depends on good customer service as their asset. All staffs are trained to listen to customers' needs and forced to get feedbacks to improve. Gone are the days where sellers shout 'nak beli, beli! Taknak beli, sila blahh!'
Working in corporate shows no difference. Businesses now face staff turnover more times higher than a decade ago. Employees see no problem getting a job from another company if this current company does not listen to their employees.
Employers then start to build better relationships with co workers, offer gyms, yoga classes, variety-filled pantries, 5-day work, work from home, etc etc perks and benefits. More companies are going flat management system and every staff is a partner policy.
AirAsia listens to their employees. Even its boss, Tan Sri Tony Fernandez goes to the level of luggage handler to find out their needs and listen. Now everyone can fly, not just that everyone can reach their dreams working in AirAsia.
Even on micro level, a family too has changed. Gone are the times where the father holding a cane instilling fear will work. Parents now need to sit and talk to their children more often to understand them better and listen.
Coming back to our government. People see a need to voice out. As a professional speaker, a decade ago after a presentation, questions are minimal or none at all. Now people do not only ask questions but ask intelligent questions which need some thinking to answer. Some are wondering why all the while people say our education system does not encourage questioning yet people now start to voice out so much?
People start to 'show' their voice by raising up issues, hold intelligent debates, call in to radio stations to give comments, start Facebook groups and march in the streets for a certain cause.
Because people's voice are not taken into account for too long too many times. Too many times people say corruption is rampant, since Tun Dr Mahathir's time till now. Tun Abdullah Badawi promised change in battling the corrupt won him a historical landslide win. But he failed. Now Dato Sri Najib tried yet people see corruption as rampant as before. For too long too many times people's voice in this matter has not been heard, taken into real action or shown results.
Therefore the rakyat thinks the government is not listening. New media also allowed 'voicing out' - blogs, facebook, Twitter and other social media combined the voice of many and examples of other countries successfully change for the better have all in one way or another encourage proactive actions among the rakyat.
Human has a basic nature instinct. They help the less fortunate and speak for the underprivileged as a nature call. When someone is beaten or being bullied, will you help the bully or the one being bullied? Human instinct says help the one being bashed.
The PR is good in understanding these among the rakyat. They monopolized on these issues and promised change too. They also play the one being bullied, capitalized on Beng Hock issues, Bersih's voice being unheard and suppressed, and even some minor injuries may need a CT scan in the hospital. The voice is 'I'm being bullied, help!'
BN on the other hand still hold the 'I'm the boss mentality', 'dengar cakap bapa!' kind of ruling. Refusal to listen to certain demands also costs BN a whole lot, evident in a few rallies.
Human also has basic instinct for revenge. Although is easy to quote 'an eye for an eye the whole world will be blind' most people hold grudges and waiting to revenge. So your mainstream media whacked the opposition, the opposition says 'my media paper also whack the government.' The opposition has tried very hard to be heard, many would know that oppositions are the one 'being bullied' in this case therefore the support goes to opposition again. BN continued to suppressed by confiscating properties and assets of those seen to be pro opposition, evident in the Malaysiakini case.
Having cited a few examples, these 'I'm being bullied' situations are great issues played by the PR and of course their manifesto buku jingga will include freedom of media, eliminate corruption among others.
ISA was also seen as a BN tool to suppressed voice of people and again, who is being seen as being bullied? And of course it is again included in the buku jingga.
While people want to voice out and start helping the one being bullied, don't forget human is also an intelligent species. Some issues played too much in the same manner irked the public and backfired evident when Beng Hock issue being dragged to a by election.
In my opinion, both BN and PR always use issues and playing drama too often. I'm a little tired of it and feel there should be a need for long term consistent plans for our country in every issue.
For example, the recent Bersih was wanting fair and clean election. As mentioned in my previous blogposts, I support the cause but not a rally. I also said a rally today does not mean a fair and clean election tomorrow. Now I love the fact that now more people are aware of a need of a fair and clean election. But what's next? I feel there's a need to understand the roles of our election commission, more awareness on how other democratic countries are holding elections, perhaps a comparison or analysis of people's views from all walks of lives, more dialogues and eventually a true reform of a fair electoral system.
For me the word 'fair' itself is very subjective. Something fair to me may be seen as unfair to others and vice versa. I really hope both BN and PR can come out with fair and clean election, fair to both, not only fair to one side and most importantly fair to the rakyat.
-------
Things just happen, the rest is up to us to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Just like human, all industries go through a cycle of learning curve too. From fishing and farming for own family, to barter trade and then trading, human has grown more complicated. From agriculture to industry based country too and in future knowledge and the brains will rule the country.
Thus, all human should also grow up and learn. We have seen how hard labour does not bring much values anymore. Our great grandfathers depended on an era what called 'hard work' is now gone. As long as you worked hard, tanam your own sayur, you survived.
Then we see people who could trade the more wins. And from fishing for the family, the industry became huge with more sophisticated vessels and some people trying to get bigger cut by issueing permits or licences and introduced forms of taxes.
Thus, human see a need to pay the 'master' although they worked hard and survived. Yet, the complexity of human society evolved and therefore adaptation is important. Failing to adapt to change brings disaster.
From trading either products or services, we also see that the industry evolve. More and more people doing the same thing ie coffee shops booming like mushrooms, the business depends on good customer service as their asset. All staffs are trained to listen to customers' needs and forced to get feedbacks to improve. Gone are the days where sellers shout 'nak beli, beli! Taknak beli, sila blahh!'
Working in corporate shows no difference. Businesses now face staff turnover more times higher than a decade ago. Employees see no problem getting a job from another company if this current company does not listen to their employees.
Employers then start to build better relationships with co workers, offer gyms, yoga classes, variety-filled pantries, 5-day work, work from home, etc etc perks and benefits. More companies are going flat management system and every staff is a partner policy.
AirAsia listens to their employees. Even its boss, Tan Sri Tony Fernandez goes to the level of luggage handler to find out their needs and listen. Now everyone can fly, not just that everyone can reach their dreams working in AirAsia.
Even on micro level, a family too has changed. Gone are the times where the father holding a cane instilling fear will work. Parents now need to sit and talk to their children more often to understand them better and listen.
Coming back to our government. People see a need to voice out. As a professional speaker, a decade ago after a presentation, questions are minimal or none at all. Now people do not only ask questions but ask intelligent questions which need some thinking to answer. Some are wondering why all the while people say our education system does not encourage questioning yet people now start to voice out so much?
People start to 'show' their voice by raising up issues, hold intelligent debates, call in to radio stations to give comments, start Facebook groups and march in the streets for a certain cause.
Because people's voice are not taken into account for too long too many times. Too many times people say corruption is rampant, since Tun Dr Mahathir's time till now. Tun Abdullah Badawi promised change in battling the corrupt won him a historical landslide win. But he failed. Now Dato Sri Najib tried yet people see corruption as rampant as before. For too long too many times people's voice in this matter has not been heard, taken into real action or shown results.
Therefore the rakyat thinks the government is not listening. New media also allowed 'voicing out' - blogs, facebook, Twitter and other social media combined the voice of many and examples of other countries successfully change for the better have all in one way or another encourage proactive actions among the rakyat.
Human has a basic nature instinct. They help the less fortunate and speak for the underprivileged as a nature call. When someone is beaten or being bullied, will you help the bully or the one being bullied? Human instinct says help the one being bashed.
The PR is good in understanding these among the rakyat. They monopolized on these issues and promised change too. They also play the one being bullied, capitalized on Beng Hock issues, Bersih's voice being unheard and suppressed, and even some minor injuries may need a CT scan in the hospital. The voice is 'I'm being bullied, help!'
BN on the other hand still hold the 'I'm the boss mentality', 'dengar cakap bapa!' kind of ruling. Refusal to listen to certain demands also costs BN a whole lot, evident in a few rallies.
Human also has basic instinct for revenge. Although is easy to quote 'an eye for an eye the whole world will be blind' most people hold grudges and waiting to revenge. So your mainstream media whacked the opposition, the opposition says 'my media paper also whack the government.' The opposition has tried very hard to be heard, many would know that oppositions are the one 'being bullied' in this case therefore the support goes to opposition again. BN continued to suppressed by confiscating properties and assets of those seen to be pro opposition, evident in the Malaysiakini case.
Having cited a few examples, these 'I'm being bullied' situations are great issues played by the PR and of course their manifesto buku jingga will include freedom of media, eliminate corruption among others.
ISA was also seen as a BN tool to suppressed voice of people and again, who is being seen as being bullied? And of course it is again included in the buku jingga.
While people want to voice out and start helping the one being bullied, don't forget human is also an intelligent species. Some issues played too much in the same manner irked the public and backfired evident when Beng Hock issue being dragged to a by election.
In my opinion, both BN and PR always use issues and playing drama too often. I'm a little tired of it and feel there should be a need for long term consistent plans for our country in every issue.
For example, the recent Bersih was wanting fair and clean election. As mentioned in my previous blogposts, I support the cause but not a rally. I also said a rally today does not mean a fair and clean election tomorrow. Now I love the fact that now more people are aware of a need of a fair and clean election. But what's next? I feel there's a need to understand the roles of our election commission, more awareness on how other democratic countries are holding elections, perhaps a comparison or analysis of people's views from all walks of lives, more dialogues and eventually a true reform of a fair electoral system.
For me the word 'fair' itself is very subjective. Something fair to me may be seen as unfair to others and vice versa. I really hope both BN and PR can come out with fair and clean election, fair to both, not only fair to one side and most importantly fair to the rakyat.
-------
Things just happen, the rest is up to us to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Fair and Clean Election, yay!
Anyone has clear vision here by now? Or still wearing a Bersih specs and Patriot shades?
First thing first, I am always wanting a clean and fair election. Who with a right mind wouldn't? So if the objective is to have a clean and fair election let's examine what can be done.
Yes I too agree that our democracy system has its flaws but which democracy country does not? Ok that's not a good excuse though so I'm still FOR a clean and fair election.
I agree with Syed Akbar Ali in his blog here http://bit.ly/ouyfxB suggesting maximum term for PM, fixed election date, be open with all electoral expenses and cooling off/ campaign period. I guess there are suggestions like these that either party will feel is fair and another will feel is unfair.
PR may say BN had had Tun Dr Mahathir there for so long, why must you now limit PM tenure to only 2 terms? BN may say fixing election date is not favourable and should not be taken into consideration. I'm just imagining the response and reactions.
So Bersih wanted a fair and clean election. Is it really so or just using a general statement to trap us rakyat into the game?
I was at first very supportive of the movement and asked why was it deem illegal and no permit granted for a peaceful demonstration.
Frankly, the prolonged 'fight' among various parties showed many weaknesses of ALL parties.
1. If the objective of fair and clean election, why must be a rally? And it was very suspicious when the rally must be in KL town which was said to pass a memorandum to the Agung. Why a Shah Alam stadium was suggested and yet so adamant to have it in KL? Why meeting Agung finally, a rare opportunity, and yet never pass the memorandum? I then start to place my support a benefit of doubt and stood back at the center to see BOTH sides, or perhaps all sides to see the whole drama.
2. The police and federal government should have allowed a rally at the very beginning, I think. It was a noble cause and majority of the people will really march peacefully. Perhaps there were already hidden agendas but let the cat out from the bag by itself, no need for some reactions now deem unlawful, unfair and even violence to occur. It was because of the illegality and refused of a permit that rouse the anger, support and spirit of Bersih, indirectly making a supposedly peaceful assembly turned rally for an angered crowd. I also agree it can be likened to a marathon and the organisers have agreed on only a 2hr march.
3. Is it really exhaustive measure and a final action of rally was needed? All dialogues and discussions were already futile? In this aspect I felt that the organiser should have continued a few more rounds of discussions with relevant parties to achieve a fair and clean election. Bringing the issue to the streets will make things worse. Many peace-loving people now put all the blame on Bersih for the traffic jams, loss of incomes and making KL like a deadlock during a weekend. People like me would love a movie or coffee at peaceful places but do not mind a peaceful march but things got worse and I chose to stay home.
I'd think that a rally is the very last resort to make things work. Do you think the next election will be clean and fair now that a rally is already done? Rally today, clean and fair election tomorrow? Having a clean and fair election is a journey. A long journey and Malaysia, I too hope will embark on that journey. Some said a discussion was done with Election Commission and various parties but no one listens. Out in the NST, the EC chairman was awaiting another dialogue with Bersih and answered all demands by Bersih as well as more reforms than the 8 demands. Yet, no one also sees this?
To some extend, I do agree when people say a dialogue here and there is only a show to display that all efforts have been taken so a rally is a must. But yet, I support that there are efforts towards a clean and fair election and after a rally, I really hope that the Bersih group continue with their fight for a clean and fair election. I'm sure to support when everyone comes to their senses.
4. The events taken place do not only show weaknesses of both BN and PR but also revealed weaknesses in supporters of BOTH. Bersih supporters even resort to names calling - apparently those who were at the streets participated in the rally were fighters, those got caught were heroes! Those staying at home are named cowards and those who did not support a rally were said to have shallow thinking. Those who supported Patriot are called Pak Turut. I agree that Bersih has the right for a free assembly but do respect the rights of NOT having a rally, too. Earlier on, Datuk Ambiga was vilified and slandered with all words that could be used on her. I opposed to that, too. These names calling just show that we are all emotionally controlled and easily be carried away.
If our country continues to be emotionally carried away, the country could be easily manipulated by outside parties, the biggest threat to the nation.
5. These situations also benefited and brought disasters both to BN and PR.
- People who at first support PR tend to be on the fence now, fearing if PR takes over the country, Malaysia will not be peaceful anymore. Is sad that whenever a rally or some drastic demands happen, it is always PR who gets the name - for good or bad.
- People who supported BN again witnessed how (can I say 'stupid'?) the Home Minister and the police again suppressed what the people see as a peaceful noble cause. I guess many also switched sides.
- People now see clearly. Some said PR kept on putting news of how they were suppressed in order to get people sympathize them - sympathy votes in action! I think people now think more rationally and start to analyse too.
- Peace-loving people only want peace, survival and make money or the family peacefully and will condemn to both PR for holding a rally and BN for making such a big fuss in controlling one.
Yet, the PR kept harping that there were so much support, so many people turned up despite controlled situation and that people start to support them. BN too thought they have done all they could in the name of safety keeping for the rakyat and when in functions, kept saying people do not attend rally because they support BN.
I seldom end a blog without conclusion. I feel we should get back to our senses, be calm and analyse situations. But past is past, now let's move on. I always feel that the objectives are important and that's what move you on till you achieve them. Since the main objective of Bersih is for a clean and fair election, let's do whatever we can (opt out a rally, please) towards a nation with clean and fair election. I hope to participate in a way without a drop of blood to achieve this. Yes, Buddha has done it, Tunku Abdul Rahman did it and of course the Rakyat Malaysia can do it too.
Sent by DiGi from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
First thing first, I am always wanting a clean and fair election. Who with a right mind wouldn't? So if the objective is to have a clean and fair election let's examine what can be done.
Yes I too agree that our democracy system has its flaws but which democracy country does not? Ok that's not a good excuse though so I'm still FOR a clean and fair election.
I agree with Syed Akbar Ali in his blog here http://bit.ly/ouyfxB suggesting maximum term for PM, fixed election date, be open with all electoral expenses and cooling off/ campaign period. I guess there are suggestions like these that either party will feel is fair and another will feel is unfair.
PR may say BN had had Tun Dr Mahathir there for so long, why must you now limit PM tenure to only 2 terms? BN may say fixing election date is not favourable and should not be taken into consideration. I'm just imagining the response and reactions.
So Bersih wanted a fair and clean election. Is it really so or just using a general statement to trap us rakyat into the game?
I was at first very supportive of the movement and asked why was it deem illegal and no permit granted for a peaceful demonstration.
Frankly, the prolonged 'fight' among various parties showed many weaknesses of ALL parties.
1. If the objective of fair and clean election, why must be a rally? And it was very suspicious when the rally must be in KL town which was said to pass a memorandum to the Agung. Why a Shah Alam stadium was suggested and yet so adamant to have it in KL? Why meeting Agung finally, a rare opportunity, and yet never pass the memorandum? I then start to place my support a benefit of doubt and stood back at the center to see BOTH sides, or perhaps all sides to see the whole drama.
2. The police and federal government should have allowed a rally at the very beginning, I think. It was a noble cause and majority of the people will really march peacefully. Perhaps there were already hidden agendas but let the cat out from the bag by itself, no need for some reactions now deem unlawful, unfair and even violence to occur. It was because of the illegality and refused of a permit that rouse the anger, support and spirit of Bersih, indirectly making a supposedly peaceful assembly turned rally for an angered crowd. I also agree it can be likened to a marathon and the organisers have agreed on only a 2hr march.
3. Is it really exhaustive measure and a final action of rally was needed? All dialogues and discussions were already futile? In this aspect I felt that the organiser should have continued a few more rounds of discussions with relevant parties to achieve a fair and clean election. Bringing the issue to the streets will make things worse. Many peace-loving people now put all the blame on Bersih for the traffic jams, loss of incomes and making KL like a deadlock during a weekend. People like me would love a movie or coffee at peaceful places but do not mind a peaceful march but things got worse and I chose to stay home.
I'd think that a rally is the very last resort to make things work. Do you think the next election will be clean and fair now that a rally is already done? Rally today, clean and fair election tomorrow? Having a clean and fair election is a journey. A long journey and Malaysia, I too hope will embark on that journey. Some said a discussion was done with Election Commission and various parties but no one listens. Out in the NST, the EC chairman was awaiting another dialogue with Bersih and answered all demands by Bersih as well as more reforms than the 8 demands. Yet, no one also sees this?
To some extend, I do agree when people say a dialogue here and there is only a show to display that all efforts have been taken so a rally is a must. But yet, I support that there are efforts towards a clean and fair election and after a rally, I really hope that the Bersih group continue with their fight for a clean and fair election. I'm sure to support when everyone comes to their senses.
4. The events taken place do not only show weaknesses of both BN and PR but also revealed weaknesses in supporters of BOTH. Bersih supporters even resort to names calling - apparently those who were at the streets participated in the rally were fighters, those got caught were heroes! Those staying at home are named cowards and those who did not support a rally were said to have shallow thinking. Those who supported Patriot are called Pak Turut. I agree that Bersih has the right for a free assembly but do respect the rights of NOT having a rally, too. Earlier on, Datuk Ambiga was vilified and slandered with all words that could be used on her. I opposed to that, too. These names calling just show that we are all emotionally controlled and easily be carried away.
If our country continues to be emotionally carried away, the country could be easily manipulated by outside parties, the biggest threat to the nation.
5. These situations also benefited and brought disasters both to BN and PR.
- People who at first support PR tend to be on the fence now, fearing if PR takes over the country, Malaysia will not be peaceful anymore. Is sad that whenever a rally or some drastic demands happen, it is always PR who gets the name - for good or bad.
- People who supported BN again witnessed how (can I say 'stupid'?) the Home Minister and the police again suppressed what the people see as a peaceful noble cause. I guess many also switched sides.
- People now see clearly. Some said PR kept on putting news of how they were suppressed in order to get people sympathize them - sympathy votes in action! I think people now think more rationally and start to analyse too.
- Peace-loving people only want peace, survival and make money or the family peacefully and will condemn to both PR for holding a rally and BN for making such a big fuss in controlling one.
Yet, the PR kept harping that there were so much support, so many people turned up despite controlled situation and that people start to support them. BN too thought they have done all they could in the name of safety keeping for the rakyat and when in functions, kept saying people do not attend rally because they support BN.
I seldom end a blog without conclusion. I feel we should get back to our senses, be calm and analyse situations. But past is past, now let's move on. I always feel that the objectives are important and that's what move you on till you achieve them. Since the main objective of Bersih is for a clean and fair election, let's do whatever we can (opt out a rally, please) towards a nation with clean and fair election. I hope to participate in a way without a drop of blood to achieve this. Yes, Buddha has done it, Tunku Abdul Rahman did it and of course the Rakyat Malaysia can do it too.
Sent by DiGi from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Bersih or not? And why?
The first time a rally was done, the government has to open their eyes and ears to see and listen to various quarters and appeals by the public. It was not done for a long time and the people feel that their voices were unheard. A lot of things were happening within the government where the rakyat felt a need to save the country. And therefore, a rally.
Though the intention was good and a lot of people felt that the government finally listens to some grouses, the rally brought huge damage to Kuala Lumpur town. Almost everywhere in Kuala Lumpur were jammed in traffic, roads were closed or blocked, people wasted much time in the car, and business owners losing money due to business coming to a standstill. Worse thing got worse, the poor who depend on daily wage got nothing and they were foreign workers or poor daily wage earner who depend on their daily piecemeal for living.
Impact done - people understood it, got the message but never expected such disturbance to the public. In a sense the public agree to the rally but when it comes to disturbing their lives as well as their money for living, then the people start to think otherwise. Yet, deep inside many people, they feel the need for the rally and it was done.
Now, Bersih is thinking of a second rally. This time for a fair and clean election. Negotiations done with the Election Commissions and not much were achieved accordingly. Therefore bringing it to the streets is the best, some think. I have met three groups of people.
First the goreng nasi group. This group comprises of those who worked for it, making the dishes and even goreng the nasi to get the outcomes. They want it their way and only their way is the only and only way to have a fair and clean election. When the head says we go to the streets, they will bring their nasi, their kuali and sudip to the streets. When the head says OK we now go to the stadium, they will follow. When someone oppose to the idea of having a rally, they see these people as opposition and should not talk to them. They will only do one thing - goreng nasi - do the rally at whatever cost or whenever called by the head. They think if they go down the streets, they are the fighter, the sacrificial lamb and they have did something in history for the country. The more Bersih badges they have, the more they shout about bersih and the more yellow they have, the better.
Second is the makan nasi group. Whatever it is just take it. Yeah fair and clean election is needed, but a rally will actually bring fair and clean election? Makan nasi je la... These people will be more practical in a sense. Some said that whether or not there is a rally, the election will still be unfair and politics is already dirty so why rally? Some also felt for the people who will lose their wages and therefore oppose to the rally. Some may be rational in their thinking to ask what are the steps towards a fair and clean election instead of a rally?
The third I call the tengok nasi group. People goreng nasi or makan nasi, they will only watch. They have no opinions of themselves. A rally is there - they watch, no rally - they watch too. Some are opinionated but never voice out their concerns. Deep inside they know they want a fair and clean election but deep down inside they do not want a rally which could make the country looks bad in the eyes of the world.
Sensible THINKing
Listening to so many quarters, I finally asked a few questions but yet unanswered. I am neither for nor against Bersih. I am of course supportive of a fair and clean election (who wouldn't?) but not a rally at KL town. Perhaps some people could help me here.
1. First, does the government really do not have a fair and clean election? If the election is thus unfair, how can Kelantan fell into the hands of opposition for so long? If it is unfair, then at any point of time during election, no states could be placed at the hands of opposition parties.
2. Second, assuming the election is really unfair and dirty, do we need a rally and right in town to create an impact? Why not at the stadium? Or some suggested Putrajaya since CNN will do coverage and is good chance to show the beauty of Putrajaya.
3. Is Bersih itself really bersih and harbor no other thoughts or self benefits? If it is so bersih, and the objective is to create an awareness on a fair and clean election - why not do nationwide roadshows, get to know the rakyat and inspire them to voice up? Why MUST be a rally and MUST be at KL town?
4. Who funds Bersih? Self funded? Bersih t-shirts, plans, transportation, perhaps to ferry rally participants to KL town.
5. Is it really true that Bersih has ties with foreign countries which really want to see Malaysia fall in disgrace and stop direct investments to Malaysia? Why would someone who loves the country so much by asking for a fair and clean election be involved with foreign agencies to bring down the country?
6. What makes Datuk Ambiga so ambitious and adamant in organising such a big scale rally and specifically wanting it to be in KL town? I have respect for this woman but her adamant and to me irrational requests made me wonder why.
These are all questions unanswered in my mind and perhaps I am sometimes so "stupid" to understand issues like this. SO for now I am the makan nasi group. Have a good lunch.
-----------
Things just happen, the rest is up to us to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
Sent via my Samsung Galaxy Tab
Though the intention was good and a lot of people felt that the government finally listens to some grouses, the rally brought huge damage to Kuala Lumpur town. Almost everywhere in Kuala Lumpur were jammed in traffic, roads were closed or blocked, people wasted much time in the car, and business owners losing money due to business coming to a standstill. Worse thing got worse, the poor who depend on daily wage got nothing and they were foreign workers or poor daily wage earner who depend on their daily piecemeal for living.
Impact done - people understood it, got the message but never expected such disturbance to the public. In a sense the public agree to the rally but when it comes to disturbing their lives as well as their money for living, then the people start to think otherwise. Yet, deep inside many people, they feel the need for the rally and it was done.
Now, Bersih is thinking of a second rally. This time for a fair and clean election. Negotiations done with the Election Commissions and not much were achieved accordingly. Therefore bringing it to the streets is the best, some think. I have met three groups of people.
First the goreng nasi group. This group comprises of those who worked for it, making the dishes and even goreng the nasi to get the outcomes. They want it their way and only their way is the only and only way to have a fair and clean election. When the head says we go to the streets, they will bring their nasi, their kuali and sudip to the streets. When the head says OK we now go to the stadium, they will follow. When someone oppose to the idea of having a rally, they see these people as opposition and should not talk to them. They will only do one thing - goreng nasi - do the rally at whatever cost or whenever called by the head. They think if they go down the streets, they are the fighter, the sacrificial lamb and they have did something in history for the country. The more Bersih badges they have, the more they shout about bersih and the more yellow they have, the better.
Second is the makan nasi group. Whatever it is just take it. Yeah fair and clean election is needed, but a rally will actually bring fair and clean election? Makan nasi je la... These people will be more practical in a sense. Some said that whether or not there is a rally, the election will still be unfair and politics is already dirty so why rally? Some also felt for the people who will lose their wages and therefore oppose to the rally. Some may be rational in their thinking to ask what are the steps towards a fair and clean election instead of a rally?
The third I call the tengok nasi group. People goreng nasi or makan nasi, they will only watch. They have no opinions of themselves. A rally is there - they watch, no rally - they watch too. Some are opinionated but never voice out their concerns. Deep inside they know they want a fair and clean election but deep down inside they do not want a rally which could make the country looks bad in the eyes of the world.
Sensible THINKing
Listening to so many quarters, I finally asked a few questions but yet unanswered. I am neither for nor against Bersih. I am of course supportive of a fair and clean election (who wouldn't?) but not a rally at KL town. Perhaps some people could help me here.
1. First, does the government really do not have a fair and clean election? If the election is thus unfair, how can Kelantan fell into the hands of opposition for so long? If it is unfair, then at any point of time during election, no states could be placed at the hands of opposition parties.
2. Second, assuming the election is really unfair and dirty, do we need a rally and right in town to create an impact? Why not at the stadium? Or some suggested Putrajaya since CNN will do coverage and is good chance to show the beauty of Putrajaya.
3. Is Bersih itself really bersih and harbor no other thoughts or self benefits? If it is so bersih, and the objective is to create an awareness on a fair and clean election - why not do nationwide roadshows, get to know the rakyat and inspire them to voice up? Why MUST be a rally and MUST be at KL town?
4. Who funds Bersih? Self funded? Bersih t-shirts, plans, transportation, perhaps to ferry rally participants to KL town.
5. Is it really true that Bersih has ties with foreign countries which really want to see Malaysia fall in disgrace and stop direct investments to Malaysia? Why would someone who loves the country so much by asking for a fair and clean election be involved with foreign agencies to bring down the country?
6. What makes Datuk Ambiga so ambitious and adamant in organising such a big scale rally and specifically wanting it to be in KL town? I have respect for this woman but her adamant and to me irrational requests made me wonder why.
These are all questions unanswered in my mind and perhaps I am sometimes so "stupid" to understand issues like this. SO for now I am the makan nasi group. Have a good lunch.
-----------
Things just happen, the rest is up to us to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
Sent via my Samsung Galaxy Tab
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Tokleh Tehe: Saya Memang Bangsa Malaysia, Anak Malaysia
What do you mean by Bangsa Malaysia, many asked me. I said it resonates in the heart, I'm a Malaysian, period.
What differentiate you and the others, I was asked. People will distinguish you as a Chinese, many said. Yes, I'm of the Hainanese clan of Chinese race but that doesn't make me any less Malaysian. Millions are questioning why government forms and many other forms still have the "race" or "ethnicity" field when they harp on 1Malaysia. Many wanted it to be removed. What's the use of having such statistics of knowing how many Malays, Chinese and Indians (and other ethnics too) when we are all Malaysians, many also argued!
However, my question is - what have you been DOING as a bangsa Malaysia? Yes we can argue, we can talk and raise issues about unity. Small matter like having a 'race' field in forms, many chanted racism, and some made it so political.
For over 5 years now, I have always filled in forms, check the Lain-Lain field and when asked to specify, I put 'Bangsa Malaysia'. I've always love unity and when someone speaks about the negatives of another race or religion, I walked away. Having heated arguments with my family members even my Dad, was a norm since there are always these general statements like 'Melayu malas' 'India tipu'. And I'll ask 'what about Cina?', has Cina been so good so perfect that all other races are bad?
To understand my Muslim brothers and sisters better, I also read the translation of Quran, understand the history of the religion, why certain issues are brought up and get to know each situation better. I also fast during Ramadhan 12 years ago (but stopped for some years in between due to discomfort in stomach). I celebrate Hari Raya like all others.
I've been to church weekly for six years during childhood time and learnt about my Christian brothers and sisters. Loving one another was the most important lesson I've learnt since young.
I hope to have friends who could teach me Hinduism too.
Learning languages is so easy in Malaysia. Everywhere around us are Malays, Chinese, Indians, Sabahans, Sarawakians. So I speak some Tamil, a word or two of Sabahan and bahasa Iban. I even used these as my signature opening when I emcee for any events.
I call all my brothers and sisters to forget about anti-this anti-that, argued about this and that. These issues are so mere small issues if we ourselves have unity at heart. No one can even move my heart, as long as I have unity at heart, I'm unraved by calls of pendatang, whether I'm Cina murtad, balik Tong San, the fight of who are the origins of Malaysia, whether or not this is a Muslim country... Etc. Etc...
I am renewing my Bangsa Malaysia spirit by pledging to tick Lain-Lain and specify: Bangsa Malaysia. And I love Malaysia, is in my heart.
I always love what my mentor Anas Zubedy said, 'everything is neutral' and Harv Eker said, 'nothing has meaning until you put a label to it'.
Saya Bangsa Malaysia!
---------------------
Things just happen, the rest is up to us to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
What differentiate you and the others, I was asked. People will distinguish you as a Chinese, many said. Yes, I'm of the Hainanese clan of Chinese race but that doesn't make me any less Malaysian. Millions are questioning why government forms and many other forms still have the "race" or "ethnicity" field when they harp on 1Malaysia. Many wanted it to be removed. What's the use of having such statistics of knowing how many Malays, Chinese and Indians (and other ethnics too) when we are all Malaysians, many also argued!
However, my question is - what have you been DOING as a bangsa Malaysia? Yes we can argue, we can talk and raise issues about unity. Small matter like having a 'race' field in forms, many chanted racism, and some made it so political.
For over 5 years now, I have always filled in forms, check the Lain-Lain field and when asked to specify, I put 'Bangsa Malaysia'. I've always love unity and when someone speaks about the negatives of another race or religion, I walked away. Having heated arguments with my family members even my Dad, was a norm since there are always these general statements like 'Melayu malas' 'India tipu'. And I'll ask 'what about Cina?', has Cina been so good so perfect that all other races are bad?
To understand my Muslim brothers and sisters better, I also read the translation of Quran, understand the history of the religion, why certain issues are brought up and get to know each situation better. I also fast during Ramadhan 12 years ago (but stopped for some years in between due to discomfort in stomach). I celebrate Hari Raya like all others.
I've been to church weekly for six years during childhood time and learnt about my Christian brothers and sisters. Loving one another was the most important lesson I've learnt since young.
I hope to have friends who could teach me Hinduism too.
Learning languages is so easy in Malaysia. Everywhere around us are Malays, Chinese, Indians, Sabahans, Sarawakians. So I speak some Tamil, a word or two of Sabahan and bahasa Iban. I even used these as my signature opening when I emcee for any events.
I call all my brothers and sisters to forget about anti-this anti-that, argued about this and that. These issues are so mere small issues if we ourselves have unity at heart. No one can even move my heart, as long as I have unity at heart, I'm unraved by calls of pendatang, whether I'm Cina murtad, balik Tong San, the fight of who are the origins of Malaysia, whether or not this is a Muslim country... Etc. Etc...
I am renewing my Bangsa Malaysia spirit by pledging to tick Lain-Lain and specify: Bangsa Malaysia. And I love Malaysia, is in my heart.
I always love what my mentor Anas Zubedy said, 'everything is neutral' and Harv Eker said, 'nothing has meaning until you put a label to it'.
Saya Bangsa Malaysia!
---------------------
Things just happen, the rest is up to us to make it GREAT!
Hoong Ling
+6016-3310325
www.hoongling.com
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone
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