phobia^collaboration

Resolutions 2012

2012-01-04T00:07:00.001+09:00

Finally, got a list of things to resolute, although I wouldn't say it's final.

Resolution 1: Languages.
The first thing that came into my mind was, what I can say, my current asset. 2012 will be about improving Japanese, brushing up English, Malay and Hokkien, maybe if possible Learn Thai and French, at least self introduction by 2nd Quarter.

Resolution 2: Health.
I should start thinking seriously about health, as I'm going into the late 20s. I'm thinking of starting a new sport; running. As a target, Run For Hope 2012 (if there's still gonna be one), 10km.

Resolution 3: Relationship & networking.
Family, friends, acquaintances...no concrete plan at this moment but I should look deeper into it. I should increase my network out of my current circle.

Resolution 4: Career.
I just started my first work, plus it's totally out of what I've majored in school. Lots of OJTs but going into the second year now. So I guess it's more to "application" now. Of course the learning process is still important. I do need a concrete target soon.

Resolution 5: To get a local driving license.
I've been telling myself that I don't need one especially I'm in Tokyo. But I guess it's something handy.

I guess that's all for now. Thought of forking out 10 resolutions, but will edit from time to time, to things that's really achievable...

I came. And I left.

2011-11-15T16:07:00.001+09:00

Yeah I know. Everyone is wondering why I always have short breaks. It's like the old magic words, "now you see, now you don't".

I was actually back in Penang from 11th to 15th November. It was my second trip back this year. First was a happy occasion. Second, was not in plan, although I had expected it somehow.

I had a miscall from mum on Wednesday evening. She never called that early, unless, there's something important. Had another call from big sis later when I got back home, saying that grandpa was in hospital and may not held long. I started thinking, what's the procedures to take leave and how long will I have.

A few hours later it was confirmed, and the next day was just filling in forms, getting tickets, canceling appointments put off other works....

3 days, plus weekends five. That's all I had. As usual, my trip was never long.

Sorry I couldn't meet up with friends at home. I wish I could just drop by and say hi to everyone. But yeah i'm definitely going to be back.

As for the funeral, yeah, not on my Facebook, I didn't update much and I guess everyone thought that I'm just having another break. I'll talk about my grandpa some other time, but it's time to board the plane back. Till then...

Wish list

2011-10-11T23:15:00.001+09:00

TV.
IMac, air or pro. Or a new computer.
Rice cooker.
Water pot.
Shoes, formal & informal.
Clothes.

Anything else?

erm, birthday is near...*hint hint

Inspiration

2011-10-09T11:24:00.001+09:00

I haven't blogged for a long time now. I need more ideas, more inspiration...

A thousand suns concert 2011

2011-09-11T20:50:00.001+09:00

Was at the concert Makuhari Messe today. 3rd LP's concert in Japan; saitama arena, marines stadium(summer sonic) and today in Makuhari messe.

I think I'm a little bit too old for concerts. Or at least going crazy like others.

The hall was kind of spacious. Either too big or less audiences. Five concerts just in Japan. Must be an important for LP.

(going to singapore and Bangkok but skipping malaysia. Bravo)

The first jump was already tiring, and I somehow found my way to corner, next to the middle pathway.

Cool spot. Good view. In fact the best so far. Less than 100?50?meters away from the stage. Not only LP, but also cute girl from the other side who kept on recording with her phone lol.

But what the heck. Everyone's snapping even the signs say no photos. I erm was not good with my iPhone.

Was great anyway. LP didn't disappoint the fans, though it seemed shorter than the schedule.

P.S I have a confession to make. I don't own the "a thousand suns" album lol

Sub project

2011-09-10T11:29:00.001+09:00

It's Saturday and it's a rest day. Quite some time since I have weekends for rest days.

During university days, I would be out for students' associations activities, I would call it "sub projects" because studying is the major responsibility as a student.

Now, being a what-the-Japanese-call the "society man", I still am interested in sub projects. Two keywords: "social responsibility" and "institutional development".

There are indeed many options; going back to AYNJ, or being active in ALEPS or JAGAM (but both are back home), or being active in the recently built MPIJ.

Yet, I don't see how these groups can do much. (yeah I'm gonna be straight forward).

AYNJ: big gap between students and working people. And no I'm no more a youth.

ALEPS/JAGAM: both big and old players. But geographically? No way. And sh*t, most things you'll see is people find for part time job, small business chances, daily craps on the FB page.

MPIJ: slow progress and as I can see, it might just ended up like ALEPS/JAGAM.

Well i guess people are not totally into it, although they want to be part of something. Typically waiting to be spoon-fed. Or just gather to makan-makan.

I guess I'll need to find my own sub project, or just be active in those communities.

Work

2011-09-10T01:12:00.001+09:00

Trying out this new Blogger app. Seems that I'm not the only one waiting for this.

I seldom blog recently and I guess with Facebook, many bloggers prefer fb-ing than typing long stories. Maybe not all.

Write about my work? I can't write much because I'm not suppose to blog the details.

Basically I'm still under training, and expect to do so for this whole year. I don't find it bad because there are so much to learn and memorize. Never try working in Malaysia yet, but somehow cannot imagine how people choose to jump.

Anyway, yeah I'm learning new things while preparing myself to be professional, wonder how long will it take.

Anyway, good job Blogger for this app! Everything is portable these days :)

raya merdeka

2011-08-30T22:31:00.001+09:00

I guess everyone is more on Raya mood, rather than Merdeka.

I kept on wondering, if Malaysians (all over the world) can call upon gatherings for Bersih, how many would actually gather for Merdeka celebrations?

I guess Merdeka Day is always considered the day Malaysia is formed, but it's actually the day we celebrate our independence after years of colonization. Whereas, Malaysia Day (16 September) IS the day we remember the day Malaysia was formed.

54 years of Independence. 48 years of a nation so-called Malaysia. Less than 9 years to Vision 2020. And this year's theme? 1 Malaysia, Transformation Success, People Peace (erm, really?).

But hey, how much have we really achieved? Are we really happy with what we are now? Are we on the right track of development, economically and socially? Yes, there are yet many questions to be asked.

We (Malaysians) know we are struggling to find our own identity. And yet we dare not admit, instead, we put the blame on no one but our ownselves.

Note:
It's not just inter-racial thing, but also inner-racial thing. I can't really speak Mandarin and I have lots of people (especially Chinese Malaysians) telling me "what a shame, you're a Chinese but you do not speak Mandarin". Hhhhmmm, do I have to? And no, I don't really feel ashamed NOT speaking Mandarin. I mean I tried to (and I'm still trying to), although I don't see the need of it, for now. Maybe one day, when Mandarin is the lingua franca for human.

Well, my point is, I guess Malaysians are NOT really ready for diversity. And yes, Malaysians still do NOT see the beauty and NOT making the best out of the uniqueness of the country.

(I think I read someone talking the same things a few weeks ago :p).

Anyway....

Happy Merdeka Day, and Selamat Hari Raya!

*boy, I still blog :p

Blogging with iPhone

2011-08-26T02:15:00.000+09:00

It's been awhile since I last updated. I'm now blogging with my iPhone. Too bad Blogger doesn't allow picture posting from phone. And I think it'll be better if there's an app for this. Anyhow, a few more days till I complete the trainings and go back to Convention section. Just wonder if there'll be more traings to come...

drawing lines between logic and not

2011-06-28T21:42:00.001+09:00

I grew up in a scientific environment; being in science stream in high school and majored engineering/technology. And I guess LOGIC is one of the culture in science. Very static at times, for example, 1+1=2 (and not 3 or 4 or whatever. any other opinions?).

I was at Ikebukuro station, waiting for a friend in front of the ticket gates. There were at least 8 LCDs screens for commercials and short news in front of the gates, about 50cm X 100cm. I'm not sure how power saving is LCD screens but down the screens were plates saying "switched on at 50% brightness for power saving". And I was like, "hhmm isn't more power saving if you switch off the screens?".

Everyone is busy going in and out the gates, and I wonder how many really stop and look at the commercials and short news. Maybe me, since I stopped and looked at one of the screens? Even so, I'm sure there are other ways to send news or commercials.

Not only these screens, but also the vending machines and many other stuff, which are a little bit too abundant to (some) society.

But yes, we have to admit, that humans are not really smart all the time. Feelings come into place. Pride comes into place. Connections and networks comes into place. In short, human prefer to see the illogical side of many things in life (just to please themselves?).

And this is the side that I think I need to learn (or should I say, take in as a habit) a little bit more. And be less logical? hhhmm I should think about my wishes before I make them.

happy otousan day

2011-06-19T10:53:00.000+09:00

Firstly, Happy Pa's Day to every fathers in the world. I guess some favor Ma's Day to Pa's Day, but both are equally important.

I'm going to jump a generation up, to talk about my grandpa. I'm not really familiar with the roots of my grandpas, both my father's side and my mother's side. Grandpa from mum's side passed away when I was very young, and I really have a very fade memory of him. Grandpa from father's side is still around, but recently I got news that he's not feeling very well. He is 86.

Again, I don't really know the roots of my grandpas. Just one fact that they traveled far from "Middle Kingdom" (aka China, as like many other grandpas did) and decided to settle down in a totally different environment to them, here in the small island called Penang (the correct word is called "immigration". other grandpas and grandmas scattered around the world, and there you go, Chinese everywhere).

I don't think back then they have technologies like us today where they can Google where Penang is, or buy tickets online. And I'm actually wandering if they really know where they were heading, or they just jump into one big ship and just follow the flow.

I have totally no idea why they decided to leave the birth town, definitely not to get education like this generation. I guess the main reason is to get a better life than they had. China is wide, so much wider than Penang, and definitely have better opportunities than Penang/Malaysia. Somehow I guess there are other aspects such as politics and economy.

And there you go, three generations down, the third generation of Chinese Malaysian.

And history repeats. Here I am today in the Land of the Rising Sun, a place where I didn't really know much about when I landed here 9 years ago, about the same age my grandparents landed in a different world. I'm not so sure that politics and economy were the main reason when I left my birth town. Well, looking at the hoo-haas back at home, everyone will just conclude that those who left were just running away from politics and economy. Maybe true, maybe not.

But no, I don't see the reasons were politics and economy. Simply just because I wanted to experience a new environment. And no I (still) don't have the right answer, whether if my choice would be staying longer, or not.

I am thankful today, both to my pa and my grandpa, who made me who I am today. Not very Chinese myself but they sure did gave the chance for me to find other alternatives and gave me a wider prospective, mainly through education from the west and east, but not the traditional "Middle Kingdom" style.

p.s. good to hear grandpa is recovering.

value creation

2011-05-19T16:37:00.000+09:00

I'm so into Thai food recently. I think I've eaten Thai for like 3 times in this month. Average of once a week? There are indeed many Thai restaurants (including hawker-style restaurants) in Japan (Tokyo), well of course compared to other ASEAN countries, including Malaysia. I do wish there are more Malaysian restaurants sometimes but I guess Thai food is good enough to fill the pleasure during my rest days.

I had buffet-style lunch at Erawan, Shinjuku the other day, not bad, good view of Shinjuku, except that I was there a little bit late before they close down to prepare dinner. I was at Ikebukuro today and Thai food came into my mind, searched online andI found out there's one in Ikebukuro station. To be exact, 8th floor of Esola, connected to the station. Jim Thompson's Table.

At first I was thinking "what kinda Thai restaurant named after an English name", but Wikipedia-ed and found out Jim Thompson is a popular guy, an American who helped revitalized Thai silk (an also the guy who disappeared in Cameron Highland *wtf). OK, not going to write about him. Will read more about him later.

Anyway, everytime when I had Thai, I think I had Ga Pao nearly every meal. That's Ga Pao in the picture below (borrowed from some homepage). Rice with fried egg and fried meat (usually chicken or beef) with basil leaves. It's superb.

We all know Tom Yam or Som Tam (Papaya Salad) or Pad Thai is famous. If I drop by Bangkok (damn I want to visit Bangkok again), it's usually (and definitely) Khao Phat (erm just Thai Fried Rice). A few years back when I was in Bangkok, my uncle took me to this stall nearby his house for lunch, and he ordered Ga Pao for me (because I don't really know Thai very well, although trying to learn). Including the drinks, the meal of the day was less than 100baht (which is about 300yen).

Jim Thompson's Table was one main dish + 8 extra dishes buffet style + desserts + drinks (water and Jasmine tea) and I paid 1500 yen. Buffet at Erawan, Shinjuku was 1000yen, all buffet style. JT's Table has a view of Ikebukuro. Erawan has a view of Shinjuku. Erm the stall back in Bangkok had a view of the local lifestyles of Thailand. JT's Table and Erawan are air-conditioned. The stall, fresh air (?) + ceiling fan.

So the point is, I guess it's NOT how much one plate of Ga Pao really cost (considering the cost of the ingredients). It's about how the product is displayed and brought to customers. To create VALUE for customers to WILLINGLY pay. And I guess that's the secret (not very secret actually) of selling a product at a higher price, although it's the same product at different locations.

I guess that's one of the reasons why I'm into hotels, and NOT into manufacturers, to learn how to create soft (?) values. And these soft (?) values (service, brands etc) are not just for hotels or other service industries but also for manufacturing industries.

Scientists or engineers will always want to create scientific values, proving long equations, solving unsolved mysteries. And by the end of the day, the product will be costly and not really feasible. But I guess engineers (including engineer-gonna-be's) should always remember that they are suppose to create values to customers (yup, definitely the MOT way of thinking, and yeah leave the equations to scientists).

i make beds and wash dishes

2011-05-15T21:18:00.000+09:00

That's what I said to someone when they asked about my job.

And everyone giggles and gives me a look at my face "you must be kidding, a master's degree holder making beds and washing dishes?". I just give back the "do I look like I'm joking?" look and tell them, "erm I'm not joking".

The question is, "what do you have in mind about a job?". I guess students will imagine nice suits, sitting down in front of the computers the whole day (facebook-ing?), and maybe by the end of the day he/she will complain, " why OT so much but so low pay". Maybe a little different from what everyone is imagining.

Or is it because of the types of occupations? I think when we were younger, we will imagine that doctors, lawyers or engineers will be the best jobs in the whole world (or maybe our parents think so). But when we come to this age where you need to work to survive, I think not many doctors or lawyers or engineers are happy with their jobs (just from my observations among friends. no concrete data).

Maybe the environment? In Malaysia, doctors are complaining about the long tiring work time, but yet there are not many other alternatives. Engineers, on the other hand, seems to be changing jobs from time to time, but yet says, "the pay is never enough". Lawyers? I think there's nothing much can be changed in the juridical side. (again, this is just observations and no concrete facts).

If you ask me "how7s your job?", I'll say "oh it's exciting and lots of things to learn" (and that's when I get the "erm you are cleaning beds and washing dishes, and you say it's exciting?" look). But no joke, there are indeed lots to learn, lots to observed and lots of improvements that can be made.

I was talking with another friend in the train back home, and I told her, "I guess everyone has their own motivation in their work; money, education, career building etc, and I guess money is not my (only) motivation (or at least I'm trying not to choose "money" as the motivation)". I just started but no, I guess the learning part is still a long way to go, especially when I'm in a different thing from what I was studying in school. Which I'm glad because it allows me to have big spaces to learn and improve.

Hhhmm maybe will gather some friends/seniors/juniors and discuss on what is it like to be working.

it's not all about money

2011-04-22T00:51:00.002+09:00

Three weeks passed since I started work. People do ask what's my job and position but no I don't think I should write much on my work, after the lectures during the first week. For a meantime I'll just saying "I'm making beds this week but I'm washing plates and dishes next". Yup, I guess everyone will think that working means good life. Not at all.

Just a quick update.

First week was all about lectures on company's history, what kind of business we are doing, manners etc. Started second week at FSH, making beds and rooms. (Yes I am serious when I said I make beds and rooms). I should stop here because I think you are not allowed to know too detailed.

I guess this year is all about training and learning, not really into the field yet. That's there's a big difference between Japanese and Malaysian (or maybe others all around the world) companies, although I never experience non-Japanese companies. Japanese put a long time into training and learning, while non-Japanese companies expect you to start "fighting the war" once you are into the corporate world.

I guess it's not all about money. Self development? Education after school? Call it anything but I guess there's something else behind work/career.

Maybe it's like Jessie J's Price Tag.

the quake 2011 and what's next

2011-04-15T22:05:00.000+09:00

I don't know what's next. Not God to see the future.

To be truthful, there are still, I wouldn't say "after shocks" because it's big magnitude, let me continue. There are still quakes everyday, as big as magnitude 7. And there are predictions that there are possibilities of magnitude 8 and above coming in the next month. Predictions. Lots of them. Thanks to technology, I guess we can hear alarm everywhere (I don't know how to set mine).

But I guess the very first and foremost, it's WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM THE PREVIOUS 11 MARCH?

Start with how to handle crisis more effectively (will touch on that some other time)? Or prepare a runaway bag? If you're rich enough, maybe buy a private plane? Don't forget the private airport.

Well of course there are those out there who feel that somehow they are "lucky" to get extra holidays. Don't say I'm a workaholic (no, I'm not), but looking at some statuses on Facebook, those who are still out of Japan, or back at home. It really feels like telling them, "until when you feel like holiday? Get your ass back and start the new term!"

Things have go on. LIFE have to go on.

We can see (on TV. I still haven't got mine :p) here are thousands/millions out there still searching for families. Towns that are still not really connected to the outer world. Still not in the condition to re-start a life.

Not a proper way to express, but I guess that's why I'm back. I'm back and I'm thankful to be in the condition, to able to start a new step.

Things have to go on. The story has to go on. And most of all, LIFE has to go on...

the quake 2011 (and the aftermath)

2011-03-28T23:28:00.001+09:00

11 March 2011. "11" is not a good number after all.

I was at Mr Fujita's house when it happened. 10th floor. Not a good place to experience earthquake. Mr Fujita wasn't feeling that good that day. Some sort of surgery. Nothing much damaged except some glasses fell down from the cupboard.

Tried to clear the mess but a few aftershocks came, damn sh*t, time to run. Although it's not safe to use the elevator, Mr Fujita couldn't use the stairs, and that leaves only one option. I was praying damn hard so that the elevator goes down to ground floor safely before the next aftershock. Spent a night at the guard house although most residents went back after inspection. Looking at Mr Fujita's condition, it was a good choice to stay.

Family cancelled the trip to Japan although the places we were going are safe. Took a flight back to Penang. It was a last-minute plan and I just took a backpack home. Almost missed the flight home but luckily the local trains were working.

The flight home was full. I guess everyone panicked and wanted to get out as soon as possible. I felt bad leaving actually. No, Japan is not my hometown, but after so many years here, I am thankful to the country. Thanks to the media, I think everyone, in and out of Japan, freaked out. I think most media just report from NHK news. I don't think any, if not many, reporters actually fly to Japan and report from the site. The facts are mostly secondary or more. Plus, everyone just want to have a say on the quake.

I was back 15th to 23rd March, a week plus. It didn't feel like a week plus. There are just so many things to be done everyday.

Got a new IC, driving licence, and passport. I have to say, the system there is so much effective. Maybe the numbering thing works well. Just lack of one simple thing. SMILE! Everyone is just like going there to get a fight and not service. A culture shock after staying in a country with "ira(k)syaimase" everytime you go into a shop.

Big sis was back. Small sis was back. Later that week Ah Ku was back. Everyday was just like Lunar New Year. Not a bad thing at all, but I don't think it's a good thing to stay longer. Eat, drink, eat, drink, eat, drink....yeah, that's bonding.

Enjoyed the Radio stations back at home. Still listening to Hitz FM now when I'm back in Tokyo. Other station just hate my computer.

Loving my sister's Toyota. Yeah, BUY JAPANESE!

I didn't take back my camera back, so I'll just wait for the photos from my sister's camera.

I think I achieved quite a few things back this time, but left me with more questions and tasks. Need to list them out and figure out solutions.

crisis management

2011-03-02T14:08:00.000+09:00

One week passed since the Christchurch earthquake. It's on the news in Japan everyday since it occurred, maybe because many Japanese were involved (there are not many foreign news here on TV, unless there's something to do with Japan).

The Japan rescue team were sent ONE day after the incident, but sorry to say that sometimes even the best technology cannot fight with Mother Nature.

Two hundred over lives were reported missing, of that, 150 plus were reported dead. Of that, 28 Japanese are still reported missing after one week. Chances are low.

The question is "No other way to prevent deaths?".

Well, it was reported that the earthquake this time was a aftershock of the previous earthquake last September, only this time the source of earthquake is nearer to the surface. It was also reported that buildings were checked after the previous earthquake but maybe the standard was way too unexpected, which is why buildings such as the CTV building were considered safe.

So was it really Mother Nature or merely Human Error? Or human can't really do anything to go against Mother Nature? Science vs Religion?

I think there are measurements that can be taken to lower the risk of crisis, whether it's natural disaster like earthquake etc or social instability such as riot/demo.

Here in Japan, I wouldn't say it's Zero Risk, both natural disaster (welcome to the Land of the Rising Earth) and social .instability (thanks to the crazy neighbor who loves nuclear). Therefore, crisis management is indeed needed, especially for people like me, a foreigner living out of home.

I've approached and talked to a few people in-charged, but it seems that there's no guidelines when crisis occurred, or should I say BEFORE the crisis occurred. It's like "let's think of something when it happens". Typical Malaysia.

Also I've approached MSAJ to re-construct the database of students, but it has been a week now, without any response. A month left till I leave the status of "student" and I do want to help out. But I guess still there are spaces to be improved. Mainly, open up for participation.

Oh well, maybe it's just me caring too much for other people's sh*t. Let's go on with the typical thinking, "figure out AFTER it happens".

malaysia on sekai fushigi hakken

2011-03-01T02:05:00.000+09:00

Malaysia was featured on Hitachi's Sekai Fushigi Hakken, a TV program by Hitachi introducing cultures of countries around the world. Video credits to ribobitand.

Part 1
...featuring Thaipusam and Malay wedding ceremony...

Part 2
...featuring Malaccan town, Peranakan culture...

Part 3
...featuring Long Stay program in Malaysia, attracting lots of Japanese to Malaysia...

Overall, I guess Malaysia should be proud of what others think of us, whereas we ourselves keep on condemning the (never ending) negative parts of Malaysia.

Not forgetting a free advertisement for AirAsia. But anyways, they deserve it. It definitely a disruptive innovation for the air flight industry.

it's (partly) over

2011-02-13T16:55:00.003+09:00

I'm done with Final Report (we don't call it "thesis" because it's not an engineering program , but I usually say "thesis" because things will always get complicated) and Final Presentation for Business Plan (it's a Management" program).

So what's left? Amendments of the Final Report. And Graduation.

Proud of myself? Not at all.

Truthfully, when I looked back 2 years before, when I was at crossroads choosing which path that I should walk, and comparing it to now where I'm standing, nah I think I lost many things, ever more than I've gained. Money. Time. Trust....

Maybe I should be wiser in choosing my path.

But no hard feelings. No regrets. I guess the experiences are the important part. Wiser? Nah. And the people I've met along the long journey. Yes, PEOPLE is definitely the most important and precious thing I've gained.

Anyway....

Thank God.

Thank you, of course my family who understand my selfishness. Look forward to seeing you guys next month!

Thank you, to those who had my back, supporting me along this long journey.

Happy Lunar New Year! Still a few days to go till Chap Goh Meh, though I have no idea how to celebrate when the LNY season is over.

Happy belated birthdays and happy birthday to those I didn't have the chance to wish.

It's time to take the next step ahead. It's definitely the beginning. Tests are over. Here comes the real world!

fear

2011-02-12T16:24:00.002+09:00

Fear is all one BIG driving force.

All I can do is pray for all the best.

Hoping this fear will end soon.

I really need to move on...

you & i

2011-02-12T03:24:00.006+09:00

Listening to the new song "you & i" from Shimizu Shota in the middle of the night. No, I'm not in love or anything. Not even looking forward to V-day.

Seems like YouTube hates Shimizu Shota (and many other Japanese video clips). Nah, they are just doing the right things; being aware of copyrights. Still, there are many loopholes in Intellectual Properties.

Anyway, it's another good song from Shimizu Shota.

dances of the moon, sun and earth

2011-02-03T14:49:00.013+09:00

Festive mood = -200%

*Note the minus sign.

If you are wondering why there's no LNY celebration in Japan? Thanks to Meiji Restoration, Japan adopted the Gregorian calendar, replacing the lunar calendar.

Lunar= moon, the calendar based on the moon phase. But to be exact, the Chinese Calendar is a lunisolar calender, based on the moon phase and and time of solar year (so we should be saying "Happy Lunisolar New Year!"? OK, a little bit too complicated).

It's kind of cool to browse through the types of Calendars, if you read Wikipedia. You'll know how important nature is, where scholars back then looked at moon phase, the sun and the season etc. With the technology back then I guess it's hard for scholars to calculate days and months. Maybe with a supercomputer now, it will be more accurate, correcting all the errors.

It's a little bit too time consuming to read everything in details, but astrology seems to be very interesting. I'll try to read on that after I finish up my stuff. One thing for sure...

He/she who writes History, writes Civilization.

It's not a public holiday today but it's also important day regarding moon, sun and earth. It's Setsubun, a day before the new season, which means there are actually 4 Setsubuns in a year. Tomorrow is officially SPRING!

Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!

Which means, Demon (bad luck) out you go! Luck you're in!

Note: You'll need to have someone to wear the Demon mask, and others have to throw beans at the Demon.

Pics from Yamanashi's homepage. Kids are trained to bully the devil. :)

One may ask why are they doing this and it might seems silly, and wasteful to throw bean which will end up on the floor. But custom is custom. We just have to respect others' customs.

Note to myself: got to spend some time to learn up Chinese customs and be a little bit more "Chinese".

Hope everyone is enjoying the festive season.

lunar new year 2011

2011-01-31T00:23:00.005+09:00

Everyone is looking forward to it. I'm not.

Note: I'm still calling it "Lunar" New Year because not only Chinese celebrates the "old" new year.

It's kind of sad looking at wall on Facebook. "boarding now" damn. I think I have to avoid Facebook for this week.

It's going to be my 7th (if I'm counting it right. ) LNY here in Japan. After all these years, I guess it's just another day. And it's making me look bad, for not going back during this day. Oh blame it on the Japanese calenders. Why don't you go back to the old calender?

I don't really remember much about LNY in Japan and the celebrations. I remember the first year we skipped classes to go to Disneyland (My first and my last(?). It's not my type of place.). Japanese language school. Exams were over and the teachers expected that. The next year I remember running the college's marathon (yes) on a LNY. The rest, I think most of them I was rushing for deadlines, thesis and presentations (this year as well).

Oh at least last year I (we, MSAJ) had a celebration at Rasa Malaysia, but that too everyone was like, HECTIC. (I wonder if someone is working on any celebration?). So yeah, basically, it's not the right time to party at this time of the year. Not for all, and definitely not for final year students.

If I have the chance to be back, it will be nice to go around families' houses and get to know everyone. Seems that I've lost touch with them. (I wonder if they still remember me hhhmm). And I have families spread all around. It will be nice to get in touch with everyone again.

Anyway, wishing everyone a prosperous year and Keong Hee Huat Chai in advance!

letting go

2011-01-16T08:16:00.000+09:00

AGM is over. Time to let go and move on. Three years in the Executive Board and I think I've changed MSAJ (Kanto) in a few ways (and made many enemies, more than acquaintances along the way).

2010 was the year of implementation of what we had discussed in 2008 and 2009. There were many things that I wished doing but time was very limited. I focused more to Kanto as one of the Divisions. That's what everyone out of Kanto wanted. But I never feel that others are ready, which ended Kanto still doing most of the administration.

Anyways and anyhows, a week has passed and letting go is a must. Have to stop the habit of clicking on the homepage and FB page, checking for spam posts and updating plugins. Have to stop logging on to Twitter and tweet. And have to stop "giving ideas". The "I think..." is not important anymore.

Letting go = antisocial? No really. I think the word is "antisocial". Lost the feeling of going around and talk to people. Going around producing and providing solutions are good. Love doing that. But after solutions found, kaboom. Switch off. Ah well, I guess it's not an easy thing to maintain a network, especially important network.

I'll work on that...

on MSAJ AGM

2011-01-03T03:46:00.005+09:00

It's already the third day of 2011. That's...fast.

Annual General Meeting for Kanto will in one week. Which means one more week and I'll be (so) over with students' associations. I've declined the offer to be a part of the Secretariat of AYNJ. I'm still very interested to get involved in students/youth association. But...time. And the philosophy, the way things are done (OK let's not go over there).

I'll rethink about it, figure out what I want to do next. I've always "minor" something and I think I'll continue something minor. Maybe going back to Kendo (?). Maybe something...really produce bigger, better results.

Three years I've been (seriously) involved with MSAJ (and AYNJ). Lots of "discussions" and changes here and there. Messed things up? Not sure if it's wise to stay awhile and take extra time to pass down the tradition and ways of administration. Time is limited (very very limited) for me to finish up the Business Plan (my thesis). But I would love to make sure the next generation go on fine. Doubt that. Why? Because no one is as crazy as I am?

Crazy? Hhhmm. I just see big potential in that big organization, which I think most are too busy with their PS or complaining these and that. OK, not my right to question on how people use their time. All I know is that I had my time being involved and ran things, managed the whole thing, make changes and doing many things (which I'm not sure if people even care). If only I have more time (especially with the job hunting), maybe I should have make the "minor" to "major". Well, if I'm still that crazy(?) I think one week enough is to make a difference. Should I? Last lap...

2011: dantaisen to kojinsen

2011-01-01T05:15:00.000+09:00

Happy New Year 2011!!!

It's 2011!. Love the date.

1.1.11

Haven't really list out the Resolutions 2011, but putting the theme as "dantaisen to kojinsen" (団体戦→個人戦, organizational battle to individual battle).

I've been in many organizations all my life (Boy Scouts, Kendo, MSAJ, AYNJ etc). I proud to say that I've contribute to their development. But I guess it's time to put organizational development a side and put a little more effort into personal development.

Time to shine baby!

recruitment: asahi glass co., ltd

2010-12-30T00:21:00.005+09:00

Asahi Glass Co., Ltd is, a leading flat glass manufacturer of the world and now recruiting ASEAN Students. AGC will be conducting Career Talk on Saturday 22 January 2011, and the application is exclusively for AYNJ members.

Please click HERE for more information.

p.s. a collaboration between JobStreet ASEAN Business Consulting and AYNJ (MSAJ)

looking back 2010

2010-12-29T01:45:00.007+09:00

2010 was a rough ride. Not really ready to go over to 2011 BUT very looking forward to it, with higher hopes that 2011 is a better year.

January
I don't really remember where I spent my new year count down. Shibuya? One of the clubs in Roppongi? I remember visiting Mr Fujita for Osecchi. I think I'll visit him again this year.

I was made (or should I say "I made myself") the President of Malaysian Students' Association in Japan (MSAJ). I had second thoughts and I didn't really expected myself to be so active since 3 years ago. Plus it was the year for me to do job hunting and also considering the busy schedule in university. But after a few thoughts, being there for a long time, might just as well go for the top. I wasn't really satisfied actually, because I was uncontested. Hoping (really hoping) it won't be another same year, although I have a feeling it will. Hhhmm, should I care?

February
I remember everyone was busy with exams and their schedule. I thought of getting having a Team Building Day but the everyone's schedule didn't fit. MSAJ kicked off with the first activity, the Photography Workshop with Saiful Nang. I didn't know anything about him and neither I own a good camera (beside the digi camera I got from the AGM). Remember the dinner with him and the dance on the stage. Damn, that's something to remember. Also the "turbulence", hhhmm was not a good start but the show had to go on. Also the biggest mistake of organizing something which people don't hope for. The Lunar New Year Celebration was indeed a big mistake and totally out of expectation.

Also got involved in AYNJ's Career Fair. Man, it seems so long ago but it's actually 2010.

March
By March, everyone was back in Malaysia or out of Japan, so not much of MSAJ. More and more seminars during the holidays. Had also need to prepare the Mid Presentation, thanks to the change of schedule. The Mid Presentation was usually held in June but starting this year it was in April. Thank God I made through, balancing Lab, Mid Term Presentation, Job Hunting etc. Also the Orientation of new students. Since everyone is not around, we had not much of manpower. Somehow everything went well.

April
The start of the new annual year for Japan. Hanami season. MSAJ had it's Hanami. Good to see many turned out, but not really satisfied. Not the "participations" that I expected. Perfectionist?

Got through Mid Presentation, thanks to Big Boss. I won't touch much on that.

The Entry Sheets and exams for job hunting started. Nothing went well. I only got emails declining my applications. I expected it. Stopped the job hunting as I need to prepare for the Conference.

One of the good experience in 2010 was the visit of Malaysian Prime Minister, Dato Seri Najib Tun Razak. Had the chance to meet Mr Hatoyama, who was the PM back then and dinner with Dato Seri Najib. That's one good thing to be the President of a student association. Everyone was like rushing to get seats near to PM but at the Registration counter, I was like "sh#t, go on rushing. I'll be sitting with the PM". Oooppss.

May
Organized the MSAJ Career Fair 2010. The preparation started months before and DAMN! It was not easy to do the preparation. I remember replying hundreds of mails and calls from companies daily for the past few months. I'm proud of going through the process. It's not easy to earn money and sometime I do hate it when everyone just take things for granted. And I learned that I don't have to be great, just need to know great people :)

June
Went back to Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur though, for International Conference on Process Engineering and Advance Material (ICPEAM 2010). Presented the paper I wrote for my Bachelor's Degree. Was not really confidence with the paper but it was a great experience. Mum, dad and small sis came down to KL to meet me. I should be more appreciative. I know.

The conference was 15th to 17th. Once back to Japan and straight to Karuizawa for Moto's wedding on the 18th. It was great. First experience of a Japanese wedding and Karuizawa was great. The cottage was cool. The people was cool. Networking is DEFINITELY important.

After that I went back straight to Tokyo where MSAJ organized the 5th AYNJ's ASEAN Festival. I protested that we had it later that year as I knew the time for preparation was short. I personally didn't get involved much, looking at my packed personal schedule. Thankful to get cooperation from representatives from other countries. That's how AYNJ should be working, but I knew, the alliances couldn't hold long.

July
July is always the exam period and everyone is busy with nothing else but exams. Oh well. Tell me a day that everyone has a free schedule. Organized MSAJ Summer Gathering, a small workshop. I didn't achieve what I wanted to though. By end of the month, everyone has their own schedule and again, everyone out of Japan or back to Malaysia. Actually, it's ironic to say that I love seeing everyone out of the picture. I do like meeting people, but it's the time to concentrate and re-plan.

August
MSAJ had the Mt Fuji Hike, but I didn't join in. Honestly, a hike without a group picture? Damn.

Also, the KTJ Workshop, which I suggested 3 years ago but never once I've been there in person. Thought of other workshops for other programs but no one really took the call and organize. You reap what you sow. Don't ask why there's only KTJ Workshop (or other events/activities) and no other workshops. It's because you didn't make it happen. See, it's when everyone take things for granted.

Also the Media Competition for the Merdeka Day. But still have to look into it. Will get it done by AGM.

Was introduced to the company I got the job offer by Mr Shirai. (I'll write about it next time). Restarted job hunting after so many months of break. Not putting much hope on that either. Confused on what I really wanted. But I knew what I don't want; to end up with machines and chemicals.

Went to Tama for lab's annual summer camp.

Hot summer. Damn the heat.

September
Presented "Case Study". Thank you again to Big Boss for helping out.

After going through exams and interviews, I got good news that I got the offer. Relieved but confused. I had other companies asking me to wait, but at last I took the offer. I couldn't wait as I know I have other things in list waiting for me to do and I didn't want to waste my time doing job hunting. Hopefully it's the right choice.

October
MSAJ and KUJ collaborated and organized Hari Raya Celebration at Puan Siti's residence. Thanks to the host Puan Siti and Mr Annizam, good food was prepared and it was a big crowd.

Presented "Field Study". Wasn't good at all because I didn't want to depend on Big Boss this time. I don't want to bring it up.

Halloween was...Daniel and Natasha came to Japan. Guided them around. Jean was here in Japan as well. Celebrated with Daniel, Natasha, Jean and Kazuma.

Proposed AYNJ Cafe and had AYNJ Cafe. It was stormy and not much of attendance. But the attendees went back with 60kg of rice. See! Get involved!

November
Went to the symposium by JMA. Don't hope that I'll write the second half, because I've forgotten everything. :p I have the slides though :D

Had the teleconferencing with Putrajaya and Malaysians in 5 other countries, during Aidil Adha Celebration at the Malaysian Embassy. Japan was the first and we missed out the chances to talk. So we didn't get to talk much.

Went back to Suzuka for the annual workshop. Good to see Mr Hosono again. Spent more than one hour in his room talking to him. Sad to hear all the changes. Maybe there's this stage where you'll grow and look back and say "oh kids these days....". Nothing much can be done.

Didn't stay overnight. MSAJ together with KUJ had All Japan Sports Tournament. Like last year, we had Futsal and Bowling. I think it's important for everyone to keep archives. Since we had others involved, I didn't get myself involved much. Time to put a step back and observed.

I hit the "pressure button" and asked for Big Sis Scholarship. Not happy with it but that's the few choices I had.

December
Organized MSAJ Career Workshop. Never got fed up listening to Mr Aburaya's words and his ways of being different. I wished I took a different road back then. Somehow I did and I strongly feel that taking a different road (as I've always been) will bring me to a different end.

Not forgetting the US-Japan Youth Forum.

Spend a few days in Hakone for company training.

MSAJ organized MSAJ Malaysian Night. It was the final event for MSAJ. Honestly, no I'm not satisfied. There are so many things that I can complain about, but let bygones be bygones.

Overall, 2010 was really a rough and tough ride. Full of happenings. It wasn't nothing but yet not the best years I had. Satisfied? NO! Definitely no. If only I had chances to go back, I think I would love to re-do 2010. Still struggling through the last few days of 2010 and really really hoping that 2011 will be a better year.

Thank you 2010, Alpha Mike Foxtrot aka Adios Mother F**ker! (A Team)

p.s. I hope I didn't miss out any happenings from 2010. I think I didn't touch on the meeting with Dato Seri Mustapha, the Minister of Trade and Industry, somewhere in June?

rediscovering malaysia

2010-12-16T03:22:00.001+09:00

Courtesy of HBmediawork

MSAJ Kanto is proud to present the final event of the year 2010!!!

Bringing you through the colourful Malaysian cultures in this Land of Rising Sun.

**Stage performances, featuring Malaysian dances**

**Fashion show**

**Games and treasure hunt, of course prizes to be won!**

**Malaysian food! **

Entrance Fees
======================
Students (Member of MSAJ): 500yen
Students (Non-Member) 700yen
Non-students: 1000yen
======================

Open to everyone, so please bring your friends along!

Take this chance to meet old and new friends!

And re-discover the beautiful cultures originally by Malaysian Students!!

Please reply to RSVP on Facebook or the Google Spreadsheet below to confirm your attendance.

Facebook Page

Google SpreadSheet

See you there!

Personal notes...
Re-discovering.
It's about closing both eyes and look deep inside.
See who we really are.
Who we really want to be.
Critics and comments, lay down and stay down.

the 6th US-Japan Youth Forum

2010-12-08T23:08:00.009+09:00

I think sometimes (maybe all the time) I do know how to "bombard" the whole atmosphere. lol.

I was invited to the 6th US-Japan Youth Forum by Emi, the moderator of the day. I was giving a second thoughts of going because I'm neither a Japanese nor an American. The theme of the Forum was "East Asia - Youth Meeting It's Future Challenges", and I don't think Malaysia is considered East Asia (South East Asia right?). The only category that fit me was "youth". lol

Anyway, the theme interested me and I was near the venue, Foreign Correspondents Club of Japan, after spending the whole day MICE-ing at Tokyo Forum. Entering the room was like entering an elite club, with all the photos of important figures hanging on the wall. I don't remember sending email to register and I was surprised to see my name tag as I was approaching the registration table.

The Forum started with the introduction speech and a simple video presentation about US-Japan Forum. Then the 6 panelists from 5 countries; Japan, US, China, Korea and Singapore presented their presentations, where they presented their 6-minute views on the theme.

Mr Han touched on the relationships and military tensions between countries of East Asia, mainly Japan, China, North Korea, South Korea and Russia. Miss Zhao talked on her views from a Chinese youth and importance of common values. Mr Oi mentioned on the financial relationships between Japan and China. Mr Kurihara shared his views on Japanese relationships with China from his experiences living in China. Miss Soh talked on the influences of media among youth and advised questioning the reliability before taking everything in from the media. Mr Svec talked on American's role in East Asia. A discussion among the panelists and comment from Mr Magosaki (?) (don't remember if it's correct and his position) before the Q&A session.

Alright, you got me there. I wasn't really taking notes on everything in their presentations :p. Along the presentations, there was just one thing in my mind; "you are all giving your views from the political, economical, cultural etc, to put it generally, "art stream" point of view. I was like "should I or should not?", because I'm kind of out of the picture (neither American nor Japanese), but I raised my hand during the Q&A session.

I put up my peace sign and caught attention of Emi during the Q&A session. I introduced myself as a Malaysian student from a technical background. My question? "Are there no other "common values" besides political, economical, cultural etc values?" and left a comment that the discussion was only from that points of view where as the theme was on youth facing future challenges. Also I mentioned on "why we are just discussing the political and economical issues when we know from the past that these issues don't help much" (I should have elaborated more). I got a comment from Miss Zhao that "she wasn't discussing deep into common values" and from Mr Svec on the importance of political and security reasons in East Asia. I wasn't actually agreeing on neither the presentations and the comments but heck, I realised, yes everyone (mostly) is from the art stream.

I mean yes I can agree that "security and cultural understanding" are important and they are indeed the common values, but yet again, economical and social views but no views from the technical side, the agricultural side, the educational side, the sports and other sides. And maybe these sides are the "tools" and can help more to achieve the common values, rather than just economical and political issues. Bad example but I think we can do more culture exchange by playing PlayStation rather than sitting down discussing economic or political issues. No?

And on "why are we now discussing economical, political, cultural etc?", I mean if you see the world today, the more we focus on that, the worse the world goes. So if we are going to talk on FUTURE challenges, I don't think it's a good idea to take OLD challenges and put it for the future. Mr Magosaki did mentioned that we have the choice to choose between the positive or the negative, and I think technological cooperation, educational cooperation, sports etc, can lead to a better common values, even if we put security and cultural understandings into the picture at the same time.

Conclusion? Ah well, maybe science and arts are like water and oil? hehe. I know, the world today is rushing out there to make big money, but maybe it's just me feeling that there are other common values we do need to look into. It was a great experience and really thankful that someone is organizing this kind of youth forum. I did hoped that someone can do this among ASEAN students. And a personal hope that everyone doesn't go blind over money.

Oh I forgot to mention that H.I.H Princess Takamado was present at the forum and erm it really really really really did took some guts to "bombard".

p.s. Thank you Emi for the invitation.

social network

2010-12-04T03:37:00.003+09:00

I watched The Social Network. It's cool how Mark Zuckerberg blog and program Facemash in just 4 hours. And being emotional and drunk? That's very motivating.

It is very motivating indeed. I mean the movie. It really shows how innovation should be. Using the best out of the knowledge we get in school. Maybe he's just genius and don't need school, but I guess there are always ways to put knowledge out into the practical side. Of course, in the right way and not getting people (GIRLS) to hate you on the way.

And also shows how important Intellectual Properties are. I'm sure you don't want to be sued by your best friends over your own ideas. It'll be a little bit different when it comes to institutional compared to individual, but both ways, protecting ideas are important.

It's also a movie on how teenagers/university students should be. I really hate it when sometimes people say "Hey, I'm just a student. There's nothing I can do". Except using scholarships on UFO catchers? Not my right for me to question how the money is used. But... alright I should stop on that.

Connections! Social Network! That's what all the story is all about. Being good oneself may get him/her into one level, but with better connections, he/she can really bring it to a higher level. Of course the RIGHT connections and not those that can get you into trouble. Say no to drugs!

Last but not least, never fool around with nerds. OK. Not nerds. High-level IQs.

Please. Go check The Social Network out.

Japan-Malaysia Seminar 2010 (first half)

2010-11-26T23:36:00.004+09:00

I should be writing my other reports but I think I better note down before I forgot the facts.

Japan-Malaysia Association organized their 20th JMA Seminar 2010 with the theme 「マレーシアと日系企業：マレーシアにおける日系企業の役割と今後の展望を考えるシンポジウム」 ("Malaysia and Japanese Companies - Japanese Companies in Malaysia: Their Roles in the Past, Present and Future"). It was held at the Seminar Hall, International House of Japan. The event is supported by Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Takushoku University, Nippon Keidanren, Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and The Japan-Malaysia Economic Association. The event is sponsored by Tokyo Gas Co., LTD. (have to write down all the big players)

The seminar started with Mr Furuya Keiji, Vice Chairman of JMA, representing Mr Hiranuma Takeo, Chairman of JMA who was absent, to give the Opening Remarks.

Then, the Ambassador of Malaysia to Japan, H.E. Datuk Shaharuddin bin Md. Som gave his Opening Remarks. In his speech, Datuk Shaharuddin touched on the development of economy in Malaysia, including the New Economic Model, the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) and the 12 National Key Economic Areas (NKEAs). Datuk ended his speech by urging Japanese companies to invest in areas and technologies which Japanese companies are strong in, such as high speed transportation and energy saving power generation.

Mr Onozawa Jun, Professor of the Faculty of International Studies, Takushoku University gave the keynote speech.

In his speech, he touched on three main things
(1) Transformation from semideveloped country to a high income country
(2) The characteristic of Japanese investment in Malaysia
(3) The problems and prospect of development for Japanese companies to invest in Malaysia

(1) Transformation from semideveloped country to a high income country

He pointed out that the deadline to Vision 2020 is another 10 years and he questioned the possibility to achieve.
He shows that Malaysian income is USD8,256 in 2010 (USD7,760 in 2008, Taiwan USD17,024, Korea USD21,530, Hong Kong USD31,420, Singapore USD34,760, Japan USD38,210), which is high among the countries in ASEAN region (Thai USD2,840, Indonesia USD2,010, the Philippines USD1,890).
Before the 1997 Economic Crisis, Malaysia showed GDP 9.1% but decreased to 5.5% after the Economic Crisis.
The reasons to the slowdown: (1) Decrement of private investment and (2) The reliance to foreign workforce.

(2) The characteristic of Japanese investment in Malaysia

He showed the timeline of Japanese investment. First direct investment by Lion Toothpaste in 1959.
Japanese investments are mainly in the manufacturing sector but it is balanced between manufacturing and service sectors.
Japanese investment in manufacturing sectors consist of 10% of Malaysian investment in manufacturing, meaning among the top, mainly in semiconductors, electric & electronics.
Recently, Japanese re-invest rather than new investments, mainly because of the established investments since the 1960s.

(3) The problems and prospect of development for Japanese companies to invest in Malaysia

(i) Hard to get good human resources (worker class). Mainly due to job hoping and reliance to foreign labors (I was laughing myself while he explained about the situation in Malaysia :p). Foreign labor is actually not cheap due to insurance, apartment etc BUT fixation rate is high (meaning they stay longer, no job hopping), shows presence in work (don't skip job), and cooperate in over time (again, I was laughing).

(ii) Obtaining resources and parts
Most companies obtain locally (45.9%) which is good compare to other countries. China (4.6%), Thailand (9%) etc.

(iii)45% of revenue is due to exportation.
And export more to ASEAN countries (37.9%) compared to Japan (34.6%). Meaning ASEAN IS getting important!!!

(iv) Japanese looking into domestic (Malaysia) demand
This is of course due to the increment of the middle class in this 20 years and change of life style.

(v) The 12 NKEAs
Following the countries policies and 12 National Key Economic Areas, Japanese companies are also going into the market. One main point: the Halal Industry. Companies such as Ajinomoto and Kewpie. Also medical health and environmental industry and green technology.

(vi) Dialogue between JACTIM and Malaysian government
Investment improvement through dialogue between Japanese Chamber of Trade and Industry (JACTIM) and Malaysian Government, where Japanese companies can go through JACTIM for investment in Malaysia.

(vii) Contribution of Japanese companies.
No more technology transfer or localization BUT measures for survival and development. to do that, of course through technology and management & executive skills. Also the transfer of management ethics.

OK, I think I should go back to my reports, so I'll blog on the next half other time. Didn't go through what I wrote, so forgive me if any mistakes.

career building workshop

2010-11-26T05:01:00.001+09:00

As reported on the news, the percentage of students graduating new March who got job offers is less than 60%. Which means the other 40% are still struggling to get a job before they graduate. I am lucky to be out of the 40% (erm I think not many know about this but yeah, sooner or later everyone will know. Maybe I'll blog about it later).

Job hunting in Japan ain't the easiest thing in students. The main difference of job hunting in Japan compared to those out of Japan (including Malaysia) is that job hunting starts during the final year of students' life (to be exact, final term of third year of Bachelor's or first year of Master's).

Who knows who started this culture but I guess it's giving everyone a pain in the ass. Maybe this model works back then when the economy was good, but definitely now Japan has to think about new ways of recruitment, because it will be a big social problem if the circle continues on. But yet again, if the top doesn't do anything, the bottom has to follow the system.

I guess by now, juniors have already started their job hunting, rushing to register on recruitment websites like Rikunabi or MyNavi etc, going for seminars...Everything on the list, been there, done that. Yet, through my experiences, those ain't the most effective ways, which is why there are still 40% still struggling.

So, what makes the difference between the 60% and the 40%? True potential? Pure luck? So what are the effective ways? (Not going to reveal it here.)

MSAJ will be organizing a workshop on career building to support Malaysian students in building career (job hunt) and have some seniors (including me) sharing our experiences in job hunt. All I can hope is that juniors aren't too hard headed to get out from their room, spend some time, getting advices and getting the RIGHT idea of job hunting.

Also, I thought of doing a little bit more, but I guess there are limitations. Let things be what it will be.

Till then...

students/youth association

2010-11-11T01:42:00.005+09:00

The term "students/youth association" is not really a popular term recently.

As many may have known, I've been involved in co-curriculum activities ever since I was young; The Scouts, Kendo etc. Currently, I'm STILL active in two associations; MSAJ and AYNJ.

Maybe for others, it's just a waste of time or there's just no interest in it. But I think it's really a good platform to increase network and decreasing the gap between students' world and real society.

A few more months and I won't be put into the "student" category and move on to the REAL world. Most probably I have to leave those associations to the younger generations. Whether they like it or not, it will be their responsibility.

As for me in such short time, I'll do what I can do to support (and develop?).

I'll be writing on the other blog regarding my last few involvement and development of students associations.

jouge kankei

2010-11-09T03:26:00.003+09:00

It means "hierarchical relationship" in Japanese.

Japanese is famous with it's "up and down" culture. It can be seen not only through actions but also in the honorific language in Japanese language, and so hierarchical relationship is a very important aspect in daily lives. Starting from young, Japanese has adopt this culture. It can be in many ways; according to age, according to academic background, timeline being in an organization etc, and it became more important when one goes into the society.

I think this jouge kankei thing is not a popular term among gaijin (foreigners), mainly because we do not have the culture of placing people up and down in a relationship. (Actually I would oppose the previous statement. Asians do actually have some aspect in honorific language). Even young Japanese today don't really take jouge kankei seriously (I think). I would say it's because of the influence from the West, where the society there looks more to the results, rather than the order.

Of course, some might say it's ridiculous to rank someone through age etc even if the person is showing a lower ability. Or some might say respect is to be earned through hard work, and not just by saying "yes sir!" to someone just because he is older.

I personally like and accept the jouge kankei culture, maybe because I've grew up in different organizations and I've experience the culture ever since I was young. In fact, I think most of my long term relationships are based on junior-senior basis. Communication and trust will be and can be achieved through this junior-senior relationship.

Approving or opposing, jouge kankei is a way of improving communication. Do you agree on jouge kankei?

it's october

2010-10-16T01:02:00.003+09:00

Sorry for the long silence. It was and still a rough ride ahead.

One song to describe it all.

Marie Digby is singing it sad, terribly sad. But cool.

All I wanna do is trade this life for something new
Holding on to what I haven’t got

Waiting for the end!!!

expressions of love: 1 malaysia, generates transformation

2010-08-15T15:56:00.002+09:00

It's the time of the year.

Expressions of Love: 1 Malaysia, Generates Transformation.

I'm loving the theme.

Expressions. That's one weak thing among Malaysians I guess.

I had a session with some Malaysians before the summer holidays. Not many attended but I was satisfied with the attendance. (Actually it was a good number). Networking was the theme and I always had mind that communication starts from oneself. It's the way expressing oneself that brings out the picture of oneself.

Same thing for most of the issues, maybe not only in Malaysia but also in any part of the world, started with mis-communication and lack of expressions. Especially back at home in Malaysia where there are so many different cultures in it, expressions are important. Wouldn't it be nice if people would be a little bit more outward. There's no way one can read others' mind/thoughts/feelings. We can feel but how much facts can feelings shows?

Therefore, PROACTIVE>passive.

the updside down pyramid

2010-07-28T17:30:00.003+09:00

There are about 2000 out there. But there are 18 of us. Is it only me or the pyramid is not really right?

even great kings can fall

2010-07-10T01:04:00.002+09:00

I've heard many rumors also seen many defeats. Even recently. And the phone call yesterday...

Sometimes, I don't understand why or how but I think human is fragile. VERY fragile.

The Chinese characters for human "人" is written with two strokes, was said that it means two people supporting each other (not an expert in Chinese characters). Indeed, no man is an island.

声をかけよう。心を開いてくれるはず。そう信じたい。

worth it?

2010-07-02T01:56:00.002+09:00

I'm telling myself it is. That's the only way for motivation. The only way? Maybe.

I've chosen my road and I will have to keep on choosing my turnings.

July. The starting of the later half of 2010. Time IS running out (for many things. No I'm not killing myself or dying of any disease choi!). Looking forward to finish up things and move on.

Just to say my thanks to every support I get. At this condition/position, nothing can be more grateful than being able to do what I enjoy doing (which is? wasting time and energy?).

aizdean

2010-06-24T00:30:00.000+09:00

He's a senior from PPKTJ. I knew him by name and saw him singing in Malaysian Night a few years ago, but we didn't actually really met each other until the dinner with PM. We chat on Facebook and I told him, "why not I go over and interview you?".

And there I was interviewing him, not very professionally of course. Just with the digital camera I have, I don't think I can ever take good pictures.

The only picture taken lol

But anyway, the objective was just to help promoting him through MSAJ (and this blog) as I thought if there's anything I can do to help promote Malaysia (food, people, etc) especially those here in Japan.

Anyway, it was a very short chat (yeah, more to a chat than an interview). Most information I've already knew and can get them from the internet. Of course, also through Facebook.

So who is Aizdean?

He's a Malaysian student (ex-student) who studied in Japan. After graduating from Master course in Engineering, he did what he love doing, which is singing. Well, I guess we should be proud having a Malaysian singer (first?) , who believes in his dreams and worked hard to achieve them.

This is mou ichido (one more time)....

I'm no fan of anime but this is cool...

So please check him out through his OFFICIAL SITE or if you can read Japanese, please go to his BLOG.

hectic one week

2010-06-23T01:28:00.003+09:00

Thinking back my previous week, what can I say? HECTIC!!!

12 to 17 June 2010...

Back to Malaysia, not Penang but just Kuala Lumpur for conference, the conference with multi names and I personally do not what I should call it. Well, the only part I was in was International Conference on Chemical Engineering and Advance Material ICPEAM 2010. It was introduced by a senior in my university and at the same time, Big Boss was nagging me to go for international conference. So yeah, KL and conference, a good mix.

Was back in KL on 12th, a few days earlier. Not an easy thing to be back. Had to fill a few forms before I really had to fly. Dad, mum and May was in KL to meet me, together with my cousin. Didn't really get to meet up with many people but I think I'm glad to able to meet up with those I've planned to meet up. Wished I had more time but this time I was back for conference, not holiday (always putting that in mind. yes, I know, very straight forward).

The conference was great. Registered on the 14th evening and there were problems with the money transfer and had to make others waited for me. 15th was the opening ceremony, with the main keynote speaker Tun Dr Mahathir (erm I'm not going to write everything because I don't think I have time for that). 16th was Abang Shamsul's presentation and the plenary speakers part 2. 17th was my presentation, which the room was quite empty (luckily?). The food was great (erm I should be writing more about the presentations, instead of the food). The congress dinner was great, with presentations mostly from students of UTP and Tourism Malaysia.

Flew back on the 17th night, reached on 18th morning, also the same temperature with Malaysia. Made my way to Moto's wedding in Karuizawa(yup, my trip mate got married). The first to reach because I went straight from the airport. The weather is so much cooler than other places. Changed and waited for others. Besides family members of both sides, about 16 friends of bride and bridegroom were there. The ceremony was simple, with no photos in the chapel (but the special photographer was clicking here and there).

The wedding party was held in one of the cottages in Karuizawa. Cool thing. We had the whole cottage to our own. The whole service was cool. A new business model :)

Started with the entrance of both bride and bridegroom. Short speech. Champagne. Introduction of chefs and staffs. Food on the table one by one. Wedding cake. No flower tossing but passing?

Second round held in the living room. It was much better than the table where the boys and girls were separated (ahem). Drank and ate till late morning. I skipped breakfast (as usual).

19th, short trip around this lake i-forgot-what-the-name-was. Lunch and came back home. OK, skipping this day because I just rested most of it. Hot room.

20th, ASEAN Festival at Komaba International House MP Hall like previous years. I didn't help much because I was back in Malaysia for conference. For 1 month preparation, I think it's so cool. Thanks to the help from everyone. Too bad Thai and Singapore couldn't make it. I've already tried postponing to later dates, but...never mind.

Everything went fine but I think the scheduling and time management can be improved. And I suspect that the usage of English was not really spread among ASEAN countries. Overall, I think I should be satisfied, although I still think there are much spaces to improve. Especially on the achievement of objectives. Did we really put the word "ASEAN" into everyone's mind and heart? That's the biggest question I would like to ask.

I'll write more on the few days to come but that's more to come.

p.s. note that I didn't put up a single picture in this post. Just too lazy....

there goes the pigeon

2010-06-02T23:00:00.004+09:00

He made the big news today. Japanese Prime Minister (or should I say ex-PM) Mr Hatoyama Yukio announced his resignation, together with the President of Democratic Party of Japan, Mr Ozawa Ichiro.

That's Mr Hatoyama at the reception of Malaysian PM

Four Prime Minister in four years. Looks like it's never easy to be the PM of Japan. I wouldn't say Mr Hatoyama did a bad job. Just inexperience, lack of decision making and no support from others. I actually see this as the same way it is back at home.

"CHANGE" was the most famous word last year. But we just can't expect change to be there at once, especially when, again, inexperience and lack of support. Worse still, old problems which is supposed to be solved long ago. (The Futenma case has been there for a long time. Same goes to the money and political (kane to seiji) issues).

Of course everyone has their say to this. But I think it's all about "being in the situation" or "experience". Try be in others' shoes.

Change. Damn. Looking back at myself, I don't think I've achieved much as well, although it's what everyone wants. (Wanting and helping it to make it come true, are two BIG differences). If you ask me, I would blame it to old problems and traditions. So yeah, Rome was not build in one day and I don't think other cities can too.

risng the sun - re-risng

2010-05-21T00:58:00.001+09:00

このままじゃ、ダメだね。

時間が限られている・・・・

Rising the SUN....re-rising

nakata hidetoshi

2010-05-18T01:36:00.004+09:00

I think I wrote about him in my previous blog, which I accidentally deleted. Oooppssy.

World Cup is near but although he retired after the 2006 World Cup, I think everyone still remembers him as one of the best players. Right now, I don't really know what his profession is, but he was traveling around the world, came back to Japan last year (?) and now traveling around Japan. Wonder how he gets his money, modeling and appear in commercials, but I don't think he has to worry.

That's the Zero Gravity Version...

And that's the Wild Boxer Version...

I'm neither a big fan of soccer nor Nakata (am I?) but it's kind of cool when he started Take Action! 2008 +1 Campaign, with the charity football match (I think I wrote about that too).

I didn't follow on his work (in the Take Action +1 project) but I guess it develops to become the Take Action Foundation. The latest project, Revalue Nippon with the objective of producing new value while continuing and developing traditional cultures of Japan. Will read more and keep track on his projects.

Respect Nakata for doing what his passion in starting all these projects. I guess not everyone is able to do what he is doing. Maybe only he can do what he is doing, his personality, his connections and his ability to play football. I guess before being able to contribute, personally have to be stable. Help ownself before helping others(?)

zero, the next important number

2010-05-16T02:55:00.006+09:00

I was watching the news on TV one day and I think it's very informative.

Some might say "zero" has no value but ZERO is the next best number.

So how many "Zero"s can you name (especially those in Japan)?

1. News Zero.
The news from Nittere, News Zero. With Arashi's Sakurai Sho as one of the newscaster, I think they got lots from Arashi's fans. Not a very good fan of Jhonnny's. I think I enjoy watching their coverage of Nakata's travels.

2. Coca-cola zero.
Talking about Nakata, he's one of the famous people appeared in Coca-cola zero's commercials. The other one, none other than Amuro Namie :)

The new version after Coca-cola zero, Coca-cola zero free.

3. Non-alcohol beers
I think it started when Kirin announced their Kirin Free in April 2009, the first non-alcohol beer in the world. Now, other companies also have non-alcohol in their products. Personally, it's not as good as beer, it does not make you high, but it is indeed important especially with nomyunication (nomu=drinking + communication= numyunication) in Japan, which allow drivers to drink and drive.

The top 4 big non-alcohol beers. Kirin, Asahi, Suntory, Sapporo. Pic from Nikkei Trendy Net.

I think one reason why Japanese can be innovative is because they don't get satisfied easily and keep on searching for better products, their kaizen spirit. No space for reasoning.

It will take a few more post to write more on "zero" products (a sign of laziness to write more). I guess Japanese are getting more and more health conscious (although they are already healthy), zero calorie, zero sugar.

So, big numbers don't make you happy all the time. Different if add more zeros, after the number that is :)

ne mama

2010-05-09T02:43:00.002+09:00

Happy Mother's Day Mum!

Hope you are having fun with your trip now with Dad and May.

I think this is the best Mother's Day song (for this year?)

turdus merula

2010-05-01T00:43:00.004+09:00

Or commonly known as Common Blackbird.

I was just searching for Blackbird through Wikipedia (what else) and came the whole list of Blackbirds. Interesting. Should spend some time reading it.

The Common Blackbird, unlike many black creatures, is not normally seen as a symbol of bad luck, but R. S. Thomas wrote that there is "a suggestion of dark Places about it",and it symbolised resignation in the 17th century tragic play The Duchess of Malfi an alternate connotation is vigilance, the bird's clear cry warning of danger.

I was actually wondering what does blackbird have to do with LP's new song "Blackbirds"

Bravo to LP again! Always the right song at the right time :)

"I'm getting back, what I gave"

Time to really put a full stop. Or a maybe a long comma. Learn to let go, maybe?

But yet so many questions left unanswered. So many chances left untouched...

No, I don't have to prove anything to anyone, but myself. The only doubt goes back to me, myself.

1 minute 30 seconds

2010-04-21T10:54:00.008+09:00

Precision is definitely what we need.

It was "Ben Foo Ming SHANG" at the table and it was "Ben Foo MENG SENG" in the booklet. Damn. But who cares. Nobody actually goes through the booklet, I think.

OK, here goes...

The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato Sri Mohd. Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak was invited by the Government of Japan(?) for an official visit to Tokyo Japan. (Note: Japan only invites TWO countries for official visit in a year and Malaysia was given the honour to be one of them).

During his visit, students were given chances to be present at the Welcoming Ceremony at the Prime Minister's office, The Honorary Doctorate presentation ceremony at Meiji University and also dinner at New Otani Hotel, organized by Yayasan Pendidikan MARA and Kelab UMNO Jepun Luar Negara.

I think that everyone knows where to get the latest pictures or updates. I'll just key in some on the dinner, although I do not really want to key much on the PM's visit.

I think everyone can read the PM's speech through the media, but I guess it's more on how we convey his original speech. And personally, I don't see the same way how the media sees it.

His speech did touched partly on politics (it's political everywhere even in Japan, and media only sees through the political side) but I guess the PM is just trying to tell us that we should be proud of being Malaysians; being one of the 47 countries invited to the Nuclear Security Summit, being one out of nine countries who had bilateral talks with Mr Obama, and being one of the two countries being invited by Japan for official visit etc which all these shows that Malaysia is recognized around the world.

He also touched on wanting Malaysians to be competitive GLOBALLY (see! the media didn't even touch on that. thank you media and looks like Mr PM will be busy turun padang correcting the wrongs) and advised students the THREE important things of studying oversea.

1. Master the knowledge (be it engineering or social science)
2. Brush up personality (erm join more MSAJ)
3. Gain quality education (learn the right things)

OK that's short :)

It was also an honour for me to be able to sit at the main table (yeah no pictures from me). Ten of us were there; The PM and wife, YB Dr Rosli Mat Hassan (the Chairman of YPM), one professor and a male and a female students (I didn't get their names), Abul of Keio University (he still owes me the information of my bougu), Aizdean (the Malaysian singer who just debut his first album lately), Idham (the President of KUJ Tokyo) , lastly Ben Foo MING SHENG (whose name was spelled wrongly).

The shamisen performance was great, but quite loud and was quite disturbing our conversation. We introduced ourselves (our name, university, course, where we are from in Malaysia) and the food just came all at one shot (Mr PM was on the rush I guess. My menu is with Calvin).

Everyone is interested to know what we talked about at the first table, but actually, nothing much. Mostly about our university lives; the lectures in Japanese, how Japanese stays in labs everyday, the small apartments we rent, nothing political. Well, it's a dinner with students anyway. But I really do have a feeling that Mr PM was rushing. The dinner was 30 minutes. We started shook hands and others too started standing up and lining up taking pictures all the way out where there was a stand outside for group pictures.

Well, everyone was excited meeting the PM, but somehow it seems that erm I'm not. Maybe I'm not a superly big fan of his? Or maybe because in the end of the day, I'll be saying "I sat with Mr PM"? (oooopppss)

Thanking everyone for the opportunity and great job to the Secretariat who worked hard in organizing the event. Trust me, I know how it feels being the organisers. Try be at the Registration and you'll see the "true colours".

home? is inside oneself.

2010-04-13T00:00:00.000+09:00

That's what I said to a friend who is now in America.

See. I do say out good words from time to time :p

I'm just glad that I've finished mid-term presentation, although I'm partly f**ked up. But just glad it's over.

Still figuring out what I do really want in life. Maybe the problem is, there are many things that I would I want in life. Until I do not really know what I want? It runs in the blood maybe. Dad experienced a lot. And there's also a big gap between "want" and "can".

On other note, I'm NOT enjoying the "call centre" with all the not-so-professional. Sometimes I do wonder why people go to school. Sish. I do wonder why I go to school.

And on the other note, I'm enjoying other bullsh*ts. They just makes me feel better.

Let's go on with the never ending Shimizu Shota...

fooling april

2010-04-03T05:37:00.003+09:00

I didn't get any April Fool joke.

Oh it's already April (3rd). Damn.

Fourth month of 2010. That's erm...fast.

Oh, 1st April marked my erm EIGHTH year here in Japan.

Congrats???

Nah. Nothing to be celebrated but a whole long list of things to be done.

And everyday I just wonder how long am I going be here.

Hhhhmmm.

Other notes...what went wrong?

I do not know what I really want?

I'm doing what I'm not suppose to be doing?

And not doing what I'm suppose to be doing?

What am I suppose to be doing?

Hhhmmmm

Luck?

Finding other options???

Ah well....

Another long day to go...

home

2010-03-25T08:52:00.002+09:00

No I'm not back home.

Just the song from Shimizu Shota.

The original clip was great, but this live version too has a good impact.

Short note:

Congrats! To those who are graduating!

Good luck! To those who is starting a new Spring!

pause

2010-03-13T03:54:00.004+09:00

Another short note before I go back home.

What do I need?

A break? Nah.

A long list actually.

But right now, MOTIVATION, I guess.

In need to turn thoughts into actions...

*p.s.
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood...........

march

2010-03-02T23:04:00.002+09:00

Can't believe it's the third month of year 2010!!!

Actually March was the beginning of the year in Rome long ago.

Yeah. The beginning of spring and the start of the military campaign.

A long list of things to be done, which I should be doing instead of writing up a post.

Just to tell the world I'm still alive. :s

MSs'AJ

2010-02-18T00:21:00.004+09:00

It has been more than a month since the new Board of Committee Members was formed, but due to exams and thesis, which differs for universities and colleges, there aren't much action taken.

At times I do wonder why I continued on when I know there are yet so many things to be done and many other things to be achieved. I just hope that my sense is right...

But right now, I think I still stand with the same points I stated in my manifesto for the Presidency:

1. Management & Structure: Human Resources (HR) Development
2. System: Aligning rules and regulations
3. Budget : Setting the resources
4. Networking: Increasing sustainable co-operations
5. Participation: Uniting the lost ones
6. Services: To society we serve

I understand that the hardest challenge of all time is No. 1: Human Resources.

Malaysian Students' Association in Japan

I think the apostrophe came in not long ago, at least formally putting it into the new Constitution last year.

And I believe the small apostrophe has a BIGGER meaning to it.

I had good times and I always believe that it's more than "just a student association", which is why I stayed on? Or maybe just that not many really get what I'm trying to convey? Or maybe there's this BIG gap between.

Hhmmm. I'll just let the status be "in the making" right now. Hopefully to put everything by the new fiscal year...

dot dot dot

2010-02-17T17:05:00.003+09:00

Creepy.

At one point, I really (NEED to) put a BIG full stop and think of the situation I am in now. There are just too many things at once, really testing the multi-tasking skills.

I used to think "help others, they'll need help". But lately, it's more to "help others, BUT let's think about yourself first. You can't save others' a** when you can't save your own."

Sigh... sigh...

Sad life, sad world. Do I even really need to care what the world is about.

YET!! I really am not giving up in what I really believe in. I really shouldn't.

It's just that sometimes, yeah life (and other many small stress sh*ts) can be really f**ked up.

Maybe need a little time to think over...

life

2010-02-15T04:23:00.003+09:00

I can't think of a better title and I can't believe I'm blogging at this time. It's 5 am. One down, three(??) reports to go.

I guess everyone has their own life to walk, and there's no point comparing.

Good, bad. Happy, sad. There's always the opposite of everything.

No I don't get being luxurious most of the time, but at times like this, be appreciative.

Thank God, the family is doing fine, although all around. REALLY all around.

Will look forward to the time we get together again...

Just a simple note: I dropped by Mr God father's place yesterday, cooked and had dinner with him.

Hhhmmm, good song from Dave Matthews Band...

not alone

2010-02-12T00:45:00.002+09:00

Being a Linkin Park fan, I'm happy they are doing this.

LINKIN PARK – "Not Alone"

Linkin Park | MySpaceミュージックビデオ

Go to MusicForRelief.org to download.

lunar new year

2010-02-10T13:30:00.004+09:00

*Note: I think I choose to use the word "lunar new year" instead of "chinese new year", because it is celebrated by not only the Chinese or Chinese migrants(?), but also people all around; Koreans, Mongolians, Tibetans, Vietnamese (they call it Tet) etc, although of course the main thing is from the Chinese.

A few days to Lunar New Year!! But no I don't have any feeling of celebration. Not that I don't want to party or anything. But 8 years not celebrating the Lunar New Year, I kind of lost touch on everything. Just imagine, no red packets or fire crackers or New Year Eve's reunion dinner etc for the last past 8 years, I somehow lost touch.

(I still remember running college marathon on the first of Lunar New Year a few years back).

And no, I'm not saying that I'm now a Japanese celebrating Japanese New Year. I do visit friends and my so-called God Dad, but neither do I take in other cultures. Who am I? Just a human being here in Japan for some time. Future? Who knows?

But anyhow, I 'll just take this opportunity to wish everyone everywhere, especially family and friends back at home and all over the world, a happy and prosperous new year.

Keong Hee Huat Chai!!!

*Hopefully my family is keeping ang pows for me, if I still get them.

honki

2010-02-01T23:01:00.002+09:00

No I'm not using any slang to call anyone.

Honki (本気) means seriousness in Japanese.

I was glad and thankful that I was able to attend the Winning Career Boot Camp organized Recruit over the weekend. It was a workshop organized for foreign students who are doing their job hunting. Indeed a great experience to know more of the insides.

Job hunting in Japan is not the same as it is in Malaysia (although I don't really know what is it like back there). For Malaysia, I have the image of "writing the resume, send in and go for the interview and if you are good, you're in".

It's totally different here in Japan. And I guess many foreigners and even my family will really understand what is it like until they really experience it.

Time schedule.
Everything in Japan has schedules, the right time for everything, even for entrance exams etc. And if you miss the time schedule it's going to be a BIG trouble for everyone. Early birds start as early as summer third year in university, where they start going for internships. Then, come the Job Hunting Seminars which is from October to January/February. Then, the entry sheets (resume) and interviews, which will end in April if go through.

Knowing yourself.
Jikoubunseki (self analysis) is always a part of job hunting. I bet they don't do back home. By analysing personally, we'll know who we really were/are and know what do we really want to do. And I think companies in Japan expect one to stay for a long time. So we do really need to know if we can stay for quite sometime.

Knowing the companies.
Knowing oneself is not enough. Even if you know what you want to do, it doesn't mean a company has the thing you want to do, or a company has the So, students go for internships or do gyoukaikennkyu (research on companies/field) to know more about companies.

The thing is, I do feel a gap between companies and students. The gap which I think is called "honki".

When I started MOT, someone did say "the main (only?) objective of a company is to get profit". I didn't quite like the way it was said because it erm somehow reminded me of erm dad. But I guess it's a fact (And I should thank Dad).

On the other side, I guess students have more freedom and less responsibility (which is one of the reason I continued to be one when other friends have already moved forward). But I am always telling myself that I should be crossing the two realms.

I AM telling myself that the worse is yet to come, especially with the economy right now and I do need to get into the honki mode. Or maybe I just need to let go and prioritize.

asean students career fair 2011 (updates)

2010-01-28T18:57:00.005+09:00

We from ASEAN Youth Network in Japan (AYNJ) will be organizing AYNJ ASEAN Students Career Fair 2011.

Date: 20 February 2010
Time: 1000hrs to 1600hrs
Venue: Tokyo Industrial Trade Center, Hamamatsucho. (JR Hamamatsucho Station)

Companies that have confirmed....

大和証券SMBC Daiwa Securities Capital Markets
旭化成 Asahi Kasei
古河電気工業 Furukawa Electric
ローソン Lawson
ヤマハYamaha
日立化成工業 Hitachi Chemicals
富士古河E&C Fuji Furukawa Engineering & Construction
ブラザー工業 Brother Industries
丸紅 Marubeni Corp
クラレ Kuraray
リコー　Ricoh

The companies will be opening for jobs in Japan and some back at home. Still a few on waiting list.

We are also having workshops for students.

Three types of workshops:
1. Talk by prospective employees.
Get to know the effective ways to do job hunting in Japan.

2. Talk by ASEAN Seniors working in Japanese companies.
Get to know how's the environment of working life in Japan and the live stories from seniors currently working in companies.

3. Group Discussion
Group discussion to discuss about job hunting in Japan. Will be facilitate by seniors

Visit the official homepage of the career fair to know more and to register!

*if anyone has a better idea to promote this, please teach me.

the new board

2010-01-25T18:22:00.007+09:00

I don't use much Bahasa Malaysia even back then in Free School, but I still (will always) remember this simple Malay pantun (poem).

Buah cempedak di luar pagar,
Ambil galah tolong jolokkan,
Saya budak baru belajar,
Kalau salah tolong tunjukkan.

Of course, I'm no more budah baru academically, but I still see myself as a learner of life.

We had our Annual General Meeting last Sunday and the new committee of MSAJ Kanto was elected. And yesterday, we had a short meeting to decide on the post. And there they are.

borrowing the pic from the page. no, i'm not photogenic.

President: Ben Foo Ming Sheng (東京農工大学,M1)
Vice President: ‘Awadh Asyraf bin Supri (東京理科大学, B2)
Secretary: Subasni Kumaraveloo (東京工業高等専門学校, Kosen 4)
Treasurer: Azril Haniz bin Abdul Aziz (東京工業大学, B4)

From term 2010, we are going to implement the Bureau system (I really think we need to name this another name because Bureau is not really easy to spell) and they are...
* We'll explain more about the Bureaus later, still classified.

Registration
Iman Amira Binti Mat Isa (アジア学生文化協会)
Christine Kee (拓殖大学, B3)

Web System and Media
Edhuan Bin Ismail (東京工業大学, B4)
Haris Bahrudin (東京工業大学, B3)
Mohd. Haikal bin Mohd. Zaini (アジア学生文化協会)

Welfare & Communications
Zulakmal Bin Dabat (アジア学生文化協会)
Aime Aqelah Md Ismail (アジア学生文化協会)

Sports & Recreations
Tan Ling Cheik (木更津工業高等専門学校, Kosen 3)
Gan Elaine (木更津工業高等専門学校 Kosen 4)

Academic & Careers
Lai Chai Ei (木更津工業高等専門学校 Kosen 4)
Nadiah Binti Azli (青山学院大学, B2)

Social & Culture
Lim Jun Hao (小山工業高等専門学校, Kosen 3)
Siriphong Koammapat Niran(明治大学, B1)

As we can see, there are more than those in the committee last year. I do not know why and I don't know if I should look at it as a good thing or a bad thing.

But let's see it as a possitive thing. NUMBER is indeed important. We don't see much of Morning Musume on the media now. We see AKB48! (OK lame joke).

That's just a part of AKB48

At this point, I don't think I can say that I have the total confidence of going through all this, with tight schedule and everything ( I think say that all the time but ended up continuing).

Action always speaks louder than words. Now being at this position, I do tell myself that I'll always be evaluated.

I guess there will be times when I really push myself forward, till I don't really see what's good in front or around me. But let's just say I'm still be budak belajar and at the same time correcting whatever was wrong. Let's just hope for best for whatever is coming.

JAL

2010-01-20T19:32:00.008+09:00

Airline industry is indeed one interesting industry.

Malaysian airline industry is interesting as well, especially when Mr Tony Fernandes brought AirAsia to Malaysia.

But let's not talk about AirAsia for now.

This is about Japan Airlines Corporation, which filed for bankruptcy recently (yesterday?).

There are lots to learn from that actually.

Japan Airlines was establised in 1951, becoming the national airline of Japan. Privatized in 1987. Then they merged with Japan Air System in 2002 (together with All Nippon Airways ANA, they were three biggest airline system) and after this and that (bla bla bla) they became Japan Airlines Corporation.

So how can a big Corporation that own so many big birds, hotels and tour agencies, plus supported by big companies and big banks and the government gone haywire?

I'll need to read more to know more but it was said that JAL was having debts since back then but somehow survived. And everyone just happy go lucky without really considering the sense of crisis. And so, after a few years of unstable economic breakdown, bam! The next thing we see is they filing for bankruptcy.

*note that more readings have to be done to get the facts.

The (ex) CEO of JAL was Haruka Nishimatsu.

He was famous when he was interviewed by CNN.

Worked hard but I guess that's didn't help much.

JAL will be taken over by Kazuo Inamori, the founder of Kyocera and KDDI.

Let's just hope Mr Inamori knows what to do with reconstructing JAL.

But I guess it's all about having good management or not.

challenge

2010-01-18T11:48:00.004+09:00

I think that's the word that was used the most during yesterday's Annual General Meeting.

But I think the word is "LUCK". I should believe more on Horoscopes. It was stated that I was going to be very lucky yesterday, and somehow I am lucky. Thanks for the camera :)

I don't know if I should be happy or I should be worried. Indeed I'm one step closer to what I'm trying to achieve (what am I trying to achieve?). But on the other side, it's not as simple as I thought. Being negative? Trying not to be.

I was having dinner with a manager (manager? nah he wasn't the manager. I forgot what position he was.) of a Japanese venture company who started a company in Malaysia. And I asked him, "why Malaysia? especially China and India are growing fast, Vietnam provides lower cost etc. "

And he replied, " Well, everyone thinks that way but actually Malaysia has a good standard of human resource."

I can only hope he is right.

And I said to him, "But I think Malaysia itself, we won't grow much and we will not manage to compete with BRICS. At least, together with ASEAN Countries, we can go somewhere".

Then he said, "I agree. And I think, it will be Malaysia, not Singapore, who will lead the ASEAN countries".

And again, I can only really hope he is right.

Anyway, it's a new start and I shouldn't put so much pressure on everyone. I always do, because I feel the rush. Because I consider myself being partly working people (youth above 20 in Japan is considered adult and we just had seijinshiki the other day), with responsible not only to ownself but also to the society (I nearly forgot about my own family, I shouldn't. Keeping that a BIG NOTE to myself).

short note before i go back home

2010-01-14T18:37:00.004+09:00

People/human is written as "人" in Chinese character.

It is said that it came from one guy lying on the other (one stroke is one fella, and the other stroke is another fella).

Which means, people/human needs to rely on each other.

People/human will be the biggest challenge in life.

the reason

2010-01-12T20:14:00.004+09:00

Here I'm writing about the manifesto that I put up for the Presidential Post of MSAJ.

Reasons I put it up or go for the post, even though I know it's going to be hard time for me, and I understand that there are many other better people than I am?

1. I wanted to continue on what I've started especially Project Rising the SUN (sorry, not much update on that homepage although there are many achievements in a year). At the same time, I do not want to take "I'm busy" as a reason for me to stop what I love doing, which is putting things together.

2. I've been into many organizations and I've experienced many things. But yet most of the time, I realize that there are mistakes here and there (Nobody's perfect) . And there are things that I guess we cannot learn from textbooks. So it will be a good chance for me to learn and improve, especially the last chance as a student before going into the real world.

3. I've experienced many organizations (from Boy Scouts to Kendo) but MSAJ IS an organization of great people with great minds, and great resources and opportunities. But there are yet so little who understand the GREATNESS in the organization.

4. Noblesse oblige. Being the community mostly supported by the government of Malaysia, the power comes together with the responsibility to contribute back to the society, especially back to Malaysia. (OK I guess that's a little too big dream BUT it is a dream. Time to realize the dream).

5. Things do not stop at MSAJ. It is the beginning. Being a part of AYNJ, MSAJ has the opportunity to share with the ASEAN community, especially with the growth of China and India, ASEAN countries will need to pull up their standards of life, to catch up.

Wow, ended with so many reasons? Hhhhmm. Ah well, the main reason is reason no. 1.

Lecture ending. GTG...

yat-cyatta...

2010-01-11T01:04:00.004+09:00

One in the West, one in the East, we from MSAJ believe cooperation between both organizations can be improved in many ways; networking, mutual educational/cultural projects, tourism, newsletters etc. And with this cooperation (and cooperation with other student organizations/societies in other countries), we can enhance the unity and cooperation among Malaysian students around the world and with a higher hope, mission and commitment, we may contribute back to not only the students but also the society back in our beloved Malaysia.

That was the part of the letter I represented MSAJ and sent to United Kingdom and Eire Council for Malaysian Students UKEC during their 16th Annual General Meeting 2009/2010.

The Presidential Post of MSAJ Kanto is opened to members who send up their manifesto.

And I did, because I want to continue what I've started and challenge myself for a higher heights, with a different, new way of Students Association.

It's going to be not only just football and celebrations and erm what else?

It's going to be REAL involvements in REAL society, with BIG collaborations with BIG people and BIG organizations, with STABLE funds and supports.

Ah well, that if I get to the top.

Which means I have to start my campaign until the election date.

For a start, CLICK HERE to look at the manifesto that I sent.

kaki gia lai eh

2010-01-08T18:54:00.004+09:00

It means "own fault bringing the troubles ownself" in (Penang) Hokkien.

January is crazily hectic. I expect more from now. Application forms, entry sheets, assignments, replying emails,

But I guess it goes back to myself for all the busy-ness. Taking so many things at once is not a good idea. There are limitations I guess. Maybe, maybe not.

Humans and all the reasonings. Damn. I think the easiest reasoning is "I'm busy". So many damn selfish fellas who can just say "I'm busy" and get away with things.

I wish I can say that. But that really makes me no difference than the rest. So I'm really trying not to use "I'm busy" as a reason. Time is always there. Just need to make time.

Or maybe there's no one else is as crazy as I am, not realizing what are the right priorities. Or others just choose to prioritize other things.

Yesterday was... woken up by an early phone call from Suzuka (This is Japan. When the young ones did something, the older ones have to take responsibility, or at least to be informed). Then the whole day, urgent messages from so many people. Then at night, got THE message (AT LAST!).
(sorry not going to go into details. just to express disappointments. yup, yesterday was a f**ked up day).

One important Japanese word that's always in my head, 「迷惑」 (troublesome) . Everyone needs to understand that everyone is somehow connected. ESPECIALLY when you are in one organization and ESPECIALLY when you are managing one (言っちゃった).

Or maybe I just have to learn to say no. Or just say "do I look like I give a damn?". (but I can't. I somehow can't).

On behalf of the board of EXCO of MSAJ, we would like to apologize for postponing (I repeat, POSTPONED!) the Annual General Meeting which was scheduled on 9 January 2010 (yes that's tomorrow), due to some technical problems. We hope to bring a better AGM this year and hopefully we can have a good team of EXCO in 2010 (we really need one).

On other records, Mr Redha, the second Advisor of Human Resource Department, Embassy of Malaysia in Tokyo will be continuing his service in Malaysia starting 14 January 2010. I personally would like to thank him for his guidance and his advices. Good luck and all the best.

p.s. Will be faster than the main page?

save your hard work

2010-01-06T18:56:00.009+09:00

It's January! (OK everyone knows that). Time for everyone to prepare their final presentations and thesis. Not everyone maybe. At least this year M1s don't have to rush for presentations and thesis, but still have to start thinking of Entry Sheet and everything. So basically, hectic months ahead for everyone.

There's just one thing about the time like this. With Facebook and blogs, soon we'll get to see pictures of their presentation or things about their research online. I'm sure everyone has put a lot of effort and would like to show the world what they have done, but please think again of what you are putting things online. You can make your professor cry.

Intellectual Properties (IP), there are many things (things here goes to know-hows as well) are protected by IP (a part of what I'm doing now. I'll just go through the basics). They are 特許権　(patent)、意匠法　(Design Act)、実用新案権　(utility model rights 、著作権　(copyright)、商標権　(trademark) etc. 　

Here, according to Japanese Patent Act, invention (発明) is defined as「自然法則を利用した技術的思想の創作のうち高度のもの」(not translating this :p Google Translate them)

-特許法第２条第１項(Patent Act Clause 2 Article 1. Using the words "clause" and "article" made me look smarter. muahaha. wtf)-

Four main points.

自然法則を利用(utilizing natural laws): Things that do not go against natural law
技術的思想 (technological thinking): Methods for achieving a fixed purpose . Result(s) that can be achieved by anyone
創作 (creation): a new creation, not "discovery" or "break-through".
高度 (high level): something that give new functions and high level effects, and will give high value in industrial world.

So if it's a new creation in the market, can't be copied easily and do not go against natural laws, think twice of what you are putting online.

It takes time to explain everything about Intellectual Properties (I would just recommend others to take MOT), but here one important term about IP which is 先願主義 (first-to-file principle. The other is 先発明主義 first-to-invent principle). Japan and everywhere in the world (except America) are using the first-to-file principle, which means, first come first served (and first to get patents.

So let's say 2 different guy file 2 identical patents on the same day, the one who passed up earlier (even if earlier by one minute) will be get the patent. Remember, one patent is for only one person.

Learn more about IP with Web Learning Plaza (Japanese is good in promoting science :) ) or go for MOT (erm not promoting MOT).

p.s. there are special cases for presentations according to 特許法30条 (Patent Act Clause 30) where the presentation is given 6 months (1 year in America. no such thing in UK) to file in as patents. But if within 6 months, other people file in, then the patent belongs to that person.

Whatever it is, better be careful of what you are putting up.

nen-ga-jou

2010-01-04T23:07:00.005+09:00

Happy 2010!

(Already) the fourth day of 2010. Nothing so new actually.

I had my countdown with Matt, Rie and Saori at Ueno's Hard Rock Cafe. Countdown in Japan is not that interesting actually. Everyone will be sitting at home watching Kouhaku with their family. But this year Masato had his final fight, K-1 Dynamite (oh now I remember I missed that fight :p He won anyway), they might watching that too. And actually there were fireworks in Shiodome but didn't go over.

Anyway, countdown was just good. Good because it wasn't crowded and it's just good to see Matt, Rie, Saori and later came Mike and his friends. And at least I didn't end up appearing on the television together with the wild people in Shibuya. Oh and it's good to see Danny later that morning. lol.

I didn't go over to Mr Fujita's or Mr Eikawa's place. I plan to. I just don't know when I can do that because my schedule is not fix (as usual) , thanks to ahem. Ah well, sometimes it's so damn hard to fix one schedule when you have to wait for others to

OK back to what I'm suppose to write on, nen-ga-jou (年賀状, Japanese New Year's card).

Every year I get 20 to 25 pieces (not that many I know) but this year, I didn't tell anyone that I've moved to a new place last March and so I didn't get many.

But I did receive a few, thanks to Japanese Post Holdings (yes, Japan Post was privatized) they know where I'm living and re-sent them to me. (Or should I thank the person staying at the old house for sending it to Mr Postman? Anyway, thank both of them).

One of them was from Mr Hosono, the Kendo Master in Suzuka. I really enjoy his greeting cards every year. The last time I went back to Suzuka, he was quite sad because good players are stopping Kendo (because to the school, good students = good results in exams. Damn). But yes, he is still healthy.

And this year's greeting card, the last sentence on the card was just great :)

「我が人生に悔いを残さず！」
Leave no regrets in life

Let's just hope for the best. I really don't know what's going to happen. Let's just say, sometimes things are just a little bit disappointed even, even when hopes are high, others just pull the motivation down. Time for the next level?

I should write out my 2010 resolutions.

last post of the year?

2009-12-26T19:56:00.002+09:00

I think this will be the last post of the year, as I don't think I have much time to blog in these few days. I should really write out my daily what-to-do list or else things will be messy.

Research
I'm not doing much research lately, although I am suppose to. My part of research with the company is basically done. But of course I'm being paid doing my research and I have to continue on with other things. Well, nothing much I can say here but next year, I'll be working on something else together with Yamada (one of the lab mates). So for research, nothing much. EXCEPT...never mind.

MOT
Mid Presentation is in April and I do have to think of something by then. Or should I say, think of something soon so that I can bring it up to the big boss. He will then have to decide what next. I've already have some ideas in mind but I'm not sure the Big Boss will be happy about it.

As for lectures, not so many but yet there are other interesting ones. If only there's no such thing as research. :s

Job Hunting
I wouldn't say I've done much but there are yet so much preparation to be done. People will ask "what?! you are graduating in 2011 but you are doing job hunting now?!" Welcome to Japan. I guess not many really know how things are done here. It's definitely different than those in other countries. Main thing is timing. It's early and it's long.

To know more about Job hunting in Japan click here. Not going to write on job hunting here.

Student Associations.
MSAJ just announced the Presidential Post 2010. If you ask me if I'm going for it, I would say "I don't know".

I mean, there are a lot of chances and opportunities in MSAJ (maybe to others it may just see MSAJ a waste of time) and in these 2 years, I think I've put so much into it, I do want to finish up what I've started.

But at the same time, with the long list of things to be done, especially some other important things (erm more important than student associations??), AND in these two years I've somehow shown that it's not necessary to be on top to make changes (erm better not say too loud :p).

Well I know I can somehow bring things to the next level, but... one simple question straight to myself, "is it worth it?"...

Anyway, I'll just think about it when I have time to think about it. Sigh.

As for AYNJ, hoping and doing the best for the Career Fair for now.

As for Permata, I can't do much but hopefully will do something by next month.

in the head, when in the lectures

2009-12-22T21:02:00.005+09:00

The conversation with big sis made me thinking (conversations with her always do). I was quite clear with my mind and decisions, but that conversation stopped me and think. Not a bad thing. I know she always stop me at the right time, before I really go on with the next step (That's what sister (family) is for).

Last lecture for this year. The lab was having bounenkai (end year party) and I was enjoying the Jingiskan (and beers) but I had to go and set up the lecture.

Winter holidays start tomorrow, but I do not really have plans like years before. Have many things to finish up before I finish my 2009. Been a long year. I will expect 2010 to be hectic. Superly hectic -.-"

Ok. Lecture's ending soon. I'll erm continue thinking...

youth acty

2009-12-18T23:16:00.003+09:00

「大学生だからこそできること」
(things can be done just being university student)

That was the theme of the free paper I read at the rest corner of the International Student Section. The free paper was from International Volunteer University Student Association (IVUSA). Can also check out Youth Acty online.

-the front page of the free paper-

I have to say, being an international NPO, it's not written in English???

Anyway....

The theme is exactly what I have in mind all the time !!! (maybe that's why I continue on being a student, although it is a little bit tiring).

Being a (university/college) student is (or should be) the best stage in life. It's the stage where somehow one is not too young (childish) but at the same time not too much big responsibility in the real world. Well, actually students (youth) play important roles in society.

In the free paper, there were articles on 5 fields where students can be involved...

1) Education
2) Local revitalization
3) Multicultural coexistence
4) Disaster relief
5) International cooperation

A little bit from the free paper. (Sorry only in Japanese)

　今、大学生は、あまり元気がないと言われています。
　
　実際、経済的な不況やセーフティネットの弱体化という社会的背景もあり、「就職」が大きなプレッシャーになって、いかに今の社会（会社）にアダぷとさせていくかに
　
　また、ボランティア活動や市民活動に対する興味や関心は年々高まっていますが、スキルアップやキャリア形成、そして「じぶん探し」的な面がクローズアップされる一方で、本来の目的である社会的課題の解決や状況の改善という視点が弱いと指摘されています。

　今回は、「教育」「地域活性化」「多文化共生」「災害救援（防災）」「国際協力」の５つの分野で、「大学という存在は今、社会のために何ができるのか？」「ソーシアル・イノベーションを起こす上で、大学生の強みは何なのか？」と考えてみました。
　・・・・

That's the introduction. Get the free paper to read more....

Anyone with the same thing in mind???

p.s. Youth Acty stands for "Youth Alternative Choice To You"

watashi ga yarimasu!

2009-12-14T03:38:00.003+09:00

It means "I'll do it" in Japanese.

A few weeks ago, I was invited back to my old college Suzuka to give a talk to the juniors. I thought of writing about it but been a little busy with things and now I'm like forgetting what I'm suppose to write on. And yeah, lately I kind of like giving out talks and sharing ideas:)

I don't really remember what topic we were talking on (I think it was the Q&A session) and I gave out one opinion on what youths are today. Of course it's not only about foreign students but everyone, and I said "youths today have to put the "watashi ga yarimasu" in mind".

I think I'm an out-going person (not all the time but most I guess) and when there are things that interest me, I'll just do it (even some times the result came out badly, real badly).

And the worse part of it is that I always get (maybe indirectly) "you are doing it already, why should I be doing it?" or "don't be so bossy here".

Well hell yeah, I'm being bossy. OK "bossy" is not the right word. I think it's "taking a step (or steps) ahead (than others)". And that's the difference.

There are so many things that can be done, many contributions to be done. It's about wanting to do it or not.

Seventeen days of 2009. Lots to be done, not much time left.

the amendment, part three

2009-12-09T01:15:00.003+09:00

This is the follow up to the previous posts on the amendment, after Abang Shamsul has pointed out some points through Facebook.

Actions and plans in order for MSAJ to achieve the target....Hhhmmm....It's erm a little bit complicated and to tell the truth, there are no concrete actions and plans, for now (oooppppsss. not very convincing huh? :) ) The reason, end of the post.

However, the amendment started because we (the EXCOs of MSAJ, or at least I did) felt that MSAJ is losing the role of being the association which is suppose to represent the WHOLE Malaysian students in Japan, but the reality is that many small groups are formed and somehow or maybe someday MSAJ will lose the role.

(btw EXCOs = Executive committee members, if anyone still do not know)

BUT!!!!!

MSAJ still yet THE student association representing the WHOLE Malaysian students in Japan because we (together with Kelab UMNO Jepun KUJ) have a long history and are supported by the Embassy of Malaysia in Japan.

AND!!!!

Conventional style of student association won't work any more. And so we have to look forward to new missions and targets and ways of running things, not just get together and have makan-makan or play balls, but also think about the developments (personal, social, cultural, definitely NOT including politics and racist issues).

SO!!!

1. It started with a little amendments here and there, stating new missions (which is SUSTAINABILITY, UNITY and NETWORKING), very important because we need a thing to achieve. And these amendments can only be done by those in the management level a.k.a EXCOs (because if the management don't change, the organization won't).

2. And now we are ready with the new way of doing things (although not perfect), next we have to let others (members) understand what and where we are heading to, which we are now doing by putting on the website and through our mailing list.

Here, it becomes the RESPONSIBILITY of each member to get the information and (at least try to) understand (because the EXCOs have already done their part by amending and putting on the website and mailing list, a place where EVERYONE have access to it).

3. Next, when the everyone understands (hopefully), we will go on with putting things into action, starting with the management level, which we set the positions in the EXCOs of every Divisions. Although there are some Divisions had and will have their Annual General Meeting, we shall make some adjustments so that we can fit the plans for the next term.

4. That was the management level and next will be the participations of members. This is where the Bureaus and Representatives of Universities/Colleges come in. By setting the Bureaus, we can open up to more participations according to genres. If there are members are interested in Sports (I can expect many of that), they can join in the Bureau of Sports and Recreations.

However, rules are to be set to protect the integrity of MSAJ, for example, there's NO WAY the EXCOs are telling the passwords of our accounts to the members. Rules are rules.

So I guess that's all I can say for now, because things have to go step by step and we will go on with the Plan-Do-Check-Act Cycle. I won't say this is final. Nothing is. MSAJ is evolving and will go on according to situations and generations.

So please, setiausaha@msaj.net if there's any questions.

Oh, by 11 December 2009 please.

oh help me to help you....gggrr

random

2009-12-05T03:21:00.004+09:00

I seldom write random post. Hhhmmm. Just a short break. It's going to be a tiring day tomorrow.

I was watching TV the other day when I saw this documentary.

「愛は心を受け入れる」
Direct translation...
Love is taking in heart

「辛いは幸せの途中」
Direct translation...
Bitterness is just the halfway of happiness

Those are the words from Saito Rie.

Who is she?

She's one of the top class hostess in Japan.

So what's so special about her?

She's deaf.

But she communicates with her clients by writing on pieces of paper.
*note that hostess has nothing (maybe not totally, haven't been to these club) to do with sex.

And she just win her clients' heart by writing good words to them.

Moral of the story. (See. Even can learn something from hostess. Japan :p) Never give up? wth...

AYNJ cafe

2009-12-04T16:30:00.004+09:00

It's something we have been discussing all along but never really had a chance to make it happen, until last week when Shal, Amy and I had dinner together and on the way back to the station, "hey, let's do it, even if it's going to be 3 of us. We have to start somewhere or else nothing it's going to happen".

And yes that was the 5-min walk from the restaurant to the station. Decision making is very hard sometimes.

AYNJ Cafe started when we were thinking of how to add more activities and improve more participations (yeah. kinda sad to say that youth these days are not really active in students association). And the idea of benkyoukai (group study) and forum came up.

Well, when it comes to academic events, there aren't many people who are really interested. "Bo~~ring", people might say. But I think it's a good chance to know more. (and there goes people saying "majime da ne" -.-"... whatever).

SO! This Sunday, 6 December 2009, we are going to have the AYNJ Cafe for the first time. It's going to be a 10-min presentation (in English) and then we will have Q&A session.

I'll be presenting on "Management Tools" which I've learned through courses and what we are using in lab, although I wouldn't say I'm good with them. Just to share.

And Shal, from Brunei who is a Medical student will share her topic on "Medical Treatments" (hopefully on white hair :p just kidding) and Amy, also from Brunei and a Agriculture student, is going to share her topic on "Environment".

It's going to be in a lounge in Ochanomizu, (meeting at Ochanomizu station at 1330hrs) and we'll go get some drinks and snacks, and Shal will bring us to the lounge and we'll start at 1400hrs (hopefully ending it at 1600hrs).

SO! If anyone is interested, even if it's just to share opinions, please contact braechno@gmail.com or shalena_s13@yahoo.com and we'll see you on Sunday :)

the amendment, part two

2009-12-03T22:36:00.003+09:00

I'm writing this because I have the sense that no one will go and open the file and read everything. :) Here goes.

The amendment started and was continued by putting it into Project Rising the SUN (don't mind the page. I don't have much time to update them. Maybe someone can install CMP for me).

Rising the SUN (sustainability, unity and networking). I know. Crap.

The current MSAJ is consist of 5 Divisions (currently Kyuma was included). One of the STRENGTH (refer SWOT) of MSAJ is because we are supported by the Embassy of Malaysia in Japan. However, there is no common platform to represent MSAJ as a whole, which lead to lack of cooperation between Divisions.

So, a Higher Council was suggested to be the platform for every EXCOs to work out the common problems we have and to increase networking among the Divisions.

At the Division level, the main positions will be President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. Next will be the EXCOs of Bureaus (is "bureaus" the plural of bureau?). The explanation of Bureaus will be explained next.

At the Higher Council, the Head of Council will be chosen among the Presidents of Divisions. The General Secretary and Vice-vice Head Council will be chosen among the Presidents, other than the Head of Council. The Head Secretary will be chosen among Secretaries of Divisions and the Head Treasurer will be chosen among Treasurers of Divisions.

Alumni is not written in the Constitution as further discussion is needed.

I think the biggest changes is that we will have Bureau, to be specific 4 of them! The Registration, the Web & Media, the Social & Culture, the Academic & Career , the Welfare & Communication and the Sports & Recreation.

Each Bureau will consist of every EXCO from , eg EXCO of Registration from all Divisions will group up and be the Bureau. With the Bureaus, we will (we can, we hope, we must) increase more participation from the members and at the same time increase cooperation between Divisions.

The example of Bureau will be the current Web System Crew. And inside each Bureau, we will then divide again into smaller units where members (non-EXCOs) can be involved directly.

Everyone will be saying that I'm crazy to spend time on all these (student associations) but I beg to differ. They are the best platform for me to run out test and experiments, at the same time making me connected to home. SEE! I'm still a Malaysian!

Just that sometimes it's sad to say, it's not easy to say "Malaysia Boleh" or "Yes we can" when people are bringing the same mindset from home. Instead of absorbing new good cultures, we spread ours :s

By 11 December 2009, setiausaha@msaj.net

Please and Thank you.

amendment of MSAJ's constituition and structure

2009-12-02T20:54:00.002+09:00

It started way back last year when I was the EXCO of Foreign Relation for MSAJ and being the first year in the team of EXCO I realized why I didn't get any news from MSAJ for all the time I was in Japan. There were (and still are) loopholes.

And so, being "too passionate" in being involved in student association, I gave out a few ideas and proposed what I had in mind. It's not that easy.

1) I need a better, sweeter mouth to convince others. I did realized that I needed partner(s) in crime. These kind of things can't be done alone but I never expect the low interest others had.

2) Experience and network. Being new in the team does not really get much say (maybe. but being in for quite sometime but not realizing the problems is another thing).

Again, it was not easy, but it was fun, because this is the best place to try out ideas without worrying about failures (because it's not the real society yet). Talking about failures, yeah I've experienced all that.

So during Majlis Jawatankuasa Antara Cawangan last year (a meeting where representatives from every Divisions of MSAJ gathered), I gave a short presentation on what I had in mind, which lead to the amendment of the structure of the organization. At the same time, Amzar from Kansai gave his ideas from the Constitution point of view, which lead to the amendment of the Constitution of the organization.

After a long discussion through mails (which is not really the best way to work things out) and finally we got fed up, and we (the representatives of each Division) had another meeting and discussed it on the spot. And yes we came out what we think it is right for the sustainability of the organization.

However, it is important to take in opinions from the stakeholders (the members) of the organization before we really make the big step. So please, if you are a member of MSAJ I urged you to go HERE and read the files, get to know what your rights and responsibilities are, and download the reply form, fill in and send back to...

setiausaha@msaj.net.

It's a good chance to voice out what you have in mind, whether you agree or not agree with the amendment.

Think globally, Act locally.

p.s. you can also email the email above if you have any inquiries or questions.

side projects

2009-11-19T16:28:00.012+09:00

Lately, I just love side projects. Sometimes it is good to get out from the main stream and be involved in the side projects. They produce good results.

What side projects you might ask. It's like Linkin Park :) , with Mike's Fort Minor and with Chester's Dead by Sunrise. Both create great music WITHOUT putting big damage to the main thing (LP).

fort minor

dead by sunrise

When we started early this year, I pointed out two biggest problems we (in MSAJ) were facing (OK this post is also about MSAJ :)). One of them was the communication system (mailing list and homepage). I said, "let's get these done because solving these will get us a better communication with the members". Let just say "it goes in the right ear and out the left". It happens all the time :)

So from the main stream, came out Project Rising the SUN (PTRS), which some how involved many in the front but in reality it feels like it's mostly personal. Then from PRTS, came out the MSAJ Web System Crew (WSC) (or was it from other part. The name WSC was somehow used naturally after a while).

Anyway, yeah the WSC I visualized was from PRTS where one of the small groups is the group of webmasters (a little bit more before we can take PRTS to the next level). Later, two webmasters (and I) met up and tried to figure out how to get things done. Not a very good idea to group three Chemical Engineering students but the important thing is, there were actions.

Then it was summer when webmasters from all around met up to learn and exchange ideas. The result...the current www.msaj.net (and the mailing system).

web system crews

I'm writing this because...

1. APPRECIATION. I would like to introduce and salute those who setting up the behind the scenes, because most of the time, people back there just don't get the credits. Try catch a movie in the cinema in Japan. People don't leave the cinema until the lists of casts, directors, producers, stuntmen, makeup artists and the whole long lists come out. Try in other places. You'll know the difference. (Oh by the way, in Bangkok, a song about the king is played and everyone has to stand up till the song ends).

2. TEAM WORK. We can't just expect one to solve one big problem, or problems that involve many. It'll be like the tip trying to support the whole triangle. It's not balanced and we just need to open up to better cooperation.

3. SUSTAINABILITY. There are good talents out there and we (whether if it's MSAJ or if it's WSC or others) have open up. It's not easy to make people to open up. We just have to branch out.

Next challenges: the membership and the continuance of PRTS (more side projects :) ). But time is limited.

Here's "Crawl back in" by Dead by Sunrise.

I wanna crawl back in !!!♪♪

biodiversity conservation and regeneration of forests

2009-11-18T20:57:00.003+09:00

That's the theme for the 19th Malaysia General Seminar, organized by Japan Malaysia Association JMA. 19th!!! Meaning there were seminars all this time?! Ok that's exaggerating :)

The hall wasn't that full and according to the (new) friend (good to know the people today :) especially the young professor lol), this year's attendance was better than the previous years. Meaning the hall was more spacey than today? But not surprised. Who would be actually interested in the forum? Even the... ok I better not say this too loud lol.

But yeah it was a great experience. One of the objectives of JMA is reforesting forest in Borneo Island, in this case, Sarawak. They do not only collect funds from companies, but also go to Sarawak themselves and planted trees. Till today, they have planted erm sorry wasn't listening much to the report lol. But I know they planted more than the British back then :p.

There are also talks from other professors, people from JICA, Takusyoku University, etc. And of course from the Ambassador of Malaysia to Japan.

It's kind of funny too actually. I mean, we Malaysians, how many of us are interested or even think about the problems of our forest back at home? But we are letting others worrying about our own forests. Of course, the Japanese feel bad for bringing down the trees for their economy and they are trying to plant back what they have taken.

Yet, the forest thing, especially in Borneo is not just a problem of one or two countries as it is said it's one of the lungs in our planet.

So if you wish to help save the forest, please visit here. We can help to plant 10 trees with 3000yen. (erm I need a better marketing skill lol)

*Tried to get MSAJ to do something about it but I guess it will be slow. Will try again later. Hhhmm.

being youth

2009-11-11T15:23:00.005+09:00

I wrote about Youth sometime earlier this year (it was just a short post). And according to most age definition, I just went over from youth to adult recently (UNGA says until 24), but come on, I'm not that old (trying not to admit :s).

I always think that youth is the only time in our life to be....youth???? To be active and alive. To be full of power and energetic. To be someone. To make history. To move a group of people. To move an organization. To move the world?

Some might say that "hey we are still kids. still got time. still can relax. still can enjoy life". But....

Facebook was founded by Mark Zuckerberg (what a name) with his friends when he was in Harvard.

Google was founded by Larry Page and Sergey Brin when they were in Stanford.

Not forgetting the richest guy in the world, Bill Gates found Microsoft in 1975 and he was 20. And he is famous for being a university drop-out.

Another popular figure, Steve Jobs founded Apple with Stephen Wozniak and Mike Markkula in 1976. He was 21.

"Do you want to spend the rest of your life selling sugared water to children, or do you want a chance to change the world?" -Steve Jobs to John Sculley (Pepsi Cola)-

Talk about Steve Jobs, "Stay hungry, stay foolish".

So, what am I doing all this while? Hitting heads and kote (it's wrist in Japanese), writing long emails, quarrelling？, putting sense into others?

Damn....

appreciative

2009-11-10T17:49:00.005+09:00

"Thank you" is indeed a small and yet BIG word. Lately I think I've been using the word "thank you" quite a lot, including those in my previous posts. After the trip back home?

Note: the word thank you reminds me of this song "inori" from Def Tech featuring Sakura...

But it's just sad to see (to hear) people not being appreciative. They don't teach kids how to say "thank you" (and "please") at school anymore? Or is it just too hard to say (or feel) thank you when you grow older?

I remember the time Calvin and I had to face the email after the KTJ Workshop. Although I expected this could have happened but I felt bad for Calvin (and others in the team) for putting so much effort, for putting so much hope (when others are just staying way out).

And of course it's not just only KTJ Workshop, but every single little thing in the student associations, whether it is MSAJ or AYNJ or others, whether it is in forms of events, or service, or management.

Of course we cannot please every single one in this whole world but yeah the phrase is "take things for granted". But some opinions just kill the hopes of others. Those putting effort will get fed up and those looking at the situation, will just stay away (when not appreciated).

On other record, thank you all. We are ready to go into the next level of new age student association. It indeed took a long time and yet still a long way to go.

It's not the end. It's just the new beginning. Hopefully a beginning everyone is hoping for.

Note: I'm listening to Fort Minor's "Remember the Name" again...

email writing

2009-11-06T16:16:00.008+09:00

Email is a common thing in this crazy world of information. Compared to post mails, it's fast and erm it's free :)

I guess we all learn how to write letters (formal and informal) in school but not to be surprised to get mails which sometimes can be very frustrated. (I got them everyday :s)

I would understand if it's from someone who is not used to emailing (although I hate to hear people saying "the seniors are doing it, why shouldn't I". Damn) but sometimes even from working people. I'm not saying that I'm a good writer but I think I always (try to) keep to the basics.

1. Introduction and Ending
I always start with "Hi" or "Hello" or "Dear Mr/Mrs" or in Japanese "...様". And it always continues on with "I hope this mail finds you well" (OK I skip this part once in awhile) or in Japanese "いつもお世話になっております".

And I usually end with writing my name, my course, my university, even my email and phone number (not forgetting my MSN). It's not a hard thing to do. There's a function that allows us to set automatically. I'm sure everyone knows about that function.

BUT...

Sometimes there's just no "Hi" and just the one whole long mail, and the mail just ended with just abbreviations or no name at all. Damn. If you want to communicate, at least let the other party who he/she is dealing with. And there are so many people with the same name. I think I can think of many Calvins, many Mohds, many Tans, Lims...

2. Long emails
I write long emails once in a while. Will try to avoid that. Once in a while I divide my writings into a few short titles. Chedet uses numberings in his writings. The thing is, go straight to the point.

There are many other emails etiquettes that can be discussed/debated, but I think I shouldn't write more because I make mistakes too sometimes. (oooppsssy) Writing email is indeed a skill to be trained and improved. But let's just say the two things above, especially no. 1, is really frustrating sometimes. (Most of the time)

Try Google "email etiquette" and I'm sure there are many sites saying many things.

genkai

2009-11-04T22:37:00.004+09:00

November is fooooooooooooooooooooo!

I hate to think about the next few months ahead. A little bit more and can throw away the last two pieces of the calender.

Last two months give the reason to finish up many things before the end of the year. Research. MOT reports. And not forgetting job hunting (which I think I should prioritize that now). MSAJ? AYNJ? The bad thing is I always want to continue on, till I'm satisfied? Should I be diving myself again?

One word. Tired.

But it's the most important part. The part where more energy is needed.

Let the latest from JAY'ED with "Everybody" do some healing. はまるね～ :)

quarter of century

2009-10-30T15:01:00.009+09:00

Thank God. I'm (going to be) 25.

Note: In some countries, the conditions are so poor that the birthrate is so low. And there are even places where children don't get to eat well and died. And oh there are places where they epidemic diseases; HIV, H1N1 etc....WTF. OK I'm just being thankful here alright.

Twenty five years. Seems so short but yet so long and tiring, especially after all the turbulences. I came a long way to feel that I haven't achieved much in life. One senior though told me to count achievements in life, no matter how small they are. At this age, I think "seniors" should be blessed for what they are doing (of course the good ones).

Seniors. Makes me feel that Japan is the right place to be. Reminds me the time when one officer from *** called. "You must be liking Japan very much. Don't forget to come back home". I just replied, "Erm, let me finish up my course and I'll tell you". Not that I'm avoiding or running away from the country that have given so much to me. I never think I am.

Home. Penang. I wish I can still call Penang home. I spent 17 years of my life there. Compare to 7 years here in Japan (yes 7 already), it's nothing. Penang is indeed a special place. But after the last trip back home, mixed feelings. There are indeed many opportunities and chances, and I'm not talking about money (ok money will come into the story) but also the growth socially and erm ok economically. The "BUT" is that everything is slow and the mindset (and everyone knows it). And not many are sharing the same thing in their head (and heart).

Anyway, let's not go any further on those this time. Not Grammy or Oscar or anything but please allow me to say my gratitudes.

THANK YOU ALL for the wishes (although it's just eve. and the wishes to come).

Especially from both sisters and mum & dad.

(after a short message)....from everyone in the family n everyone from pg,bkk,n all those who know you.
-by mum & dad-

Somehow pressured but up to the challenges...

THANKS to the ups and downs in life, these 25 years. They gave me good and bad experiences in life. May that be the guide and strength to the ups and downs ahead.

THANKS to all the people I've met everwhere till today. The family, the acquaintances, the short term friends and long term friends, the new-found-long-lost cousins and families, the big shots and small shots, the youngs and the old and not forgetting the enemies. You guys coloured the journey all these while.

THANKS to the opportunities and good lucks. They came in good time and makes me realised I need "hardwork" as well to cover the not-so-lucky part of life.

And maybe lastly THANKS to the health. Not going to repeat the note up there but I'm just thankful for being here till today.

It's not easy to be one out of 6.794 billion people on this planet. But if it is going to be one out of 6.794 billion people (and growing) I guess I'll need more than what I am today.

Note: A good song for the day :)

"If you have girl problem I feel bad for you son. I got 99 problems but the b*tch ain't one"

p.s. Just in case someone is getting me a birthday present, erm I want a Shamisen. Second hand also I don't mind. Preferably a Tsugaru. THANKS :D

-yoshida brothers-

ne, mama

2009-10-28T22:55:00.002+09:00

Happy Birthday MUM!!!

I know you must have heard from me many times but...

THANK YOU! ...for every single, small, big support that you have given to me (to your children) all this while. No other mother could have done better than you.

SORRY! ... for not being there all the time, whenever you needed me (us) the most.

Hope you are having fun on your special day!

Don't have to worry about us so much. We'll be fine.

I'll figure out something. Definitely need to figure out better solutions...

p.s. personal wishes sent personally. :p
p.s. maybe not the right song, just heard the advertisement on TV the other day.

boku wa kimi ni koi wo suru

2009-10-23T18:46:00.006+09:00

The latest by Hirai Ken. He does know how to sing sad songs :s

もしも願が叶うなら　
君のかなしみを僕の胸の中に
そそぎ込んでください　
その痛みならば僕はたえられる
未来えがく地図もなくしてしまう　
ちっぽけな僕だけれど　
君を見つけた

さよならありがとう好きだよ好きだよ
さよなら笑ってよ泣くなよバカだな
伝えたい言葉はとめどなくあふれる
何度も何度でも僕は君に恋をする

君の願が叶うなら　
全てささげると心から言える
僕がいなくなっても　
消えることはない
恋色に染まる心　
君と見つけた

さよなら　また会おう　ごめんね　
好きだよさよなら　笑ってよ　おこんなよ　
バカだな恋しい　苦しい　愛しいじゃ足りない
何度も何度でも僕は君と恋をする

恋する瞳と　
愛する痛みを　
君が僕にくれた
輝き忘れない　
ずっと

さよなら　ありがとう　好きだよ　好きだよ
さよなら　笑ってよ　泣くなよ　バカだな
伝えたい言葉はとめどなくあふれる
何度も何度でも　僕は君に恋をする

さよならまた会おうごめんね好きだよ
さよなら　笑ってよ　おこんなよ　バカだな
恋しい　苦しい　愛しいじゃ足りない
何度も何度でも叫ぶよ　好きだよ　さよなら・・・・

death

2009-10-21T20:13:00.005+09:00

Lately I've been thinking (a lot) about life; about future, about family, about friends... about life.

But today, I received a mail on the death of a friend's father. I have to say, I'm not very close to him, just met him for a few times, but we were partners in making a better community.

Death. It's always sad to hear about death, especially if it's someone near.

Scared of death? Not really.

But everytime I hear about death, it feels that there must be something that can be done. There must be something that I can do. Even back to the time when... and the time when...

Yet I know things are just beyond my power. These decisions are the decisions of the Big Guy up there.

Sigh. Losing someone is indeeed the biggest pain in life.

なんだろう？もっとしっかりしなきゃ。もっとがんばるから。精一杯がんばるから。

God bless.

song by Hirai Ken "Hitomi wo Tojite", sound track from "sekai no cyuushin de ai wo sakebu"

sorry for the very negative me today.

small sis's card is here!

2009-10-21T09:40:00.003+09:00

"Small sis" sounds? Weird? Grammatically wrong? Means "big sis" too? Older sis, younger sis? Ah whatever. :p

My first next year's resolution is to get my sisters birthday gifts. :s

Yup. I'm blessed. Thank you!

I went back last night to find a birthday card inside my letter box. I wonder who is teaching her to write Japanese? The net? lol.

Come to think again, I haven't seen them both for quite some time. Big sis, since her trip here May last year. Small sis, since she left for US, August(?), September(?) 2007? Or was it 2008? Woh! OK...

Thank you again. I needed the strength...

big sis's parcel is here!

2009-10-20T14:23:00.003+09:00

Thank you! She really knows how to read my mind. lol. Now I don't have to get a new wallet.

Told her not to get me anything, because I will feel bad, because her little brother won't get her anything for her birthday every year. But that's how she wants it, then I can just say thank you (for the present) and sorry (for not getting one).

And thank you for the card. Love the card as well. :) (sorry not taking any picture and putting it up).

And thank God. After losing every single thing in life, I am thankful for I still have my family :)

Thank you (the biggest word of all :) ).

back

2009-10-19T16:24:00.003+09:00

To my lab. Yes I was away for a week. Some might have known, but most of the time I'm just trying to be invincible (thanks to May I was tag on FB). I was back home. No, not the one in Koganei but PENANG. (sorry guys. time was limited and didn't get the chance to catch up with everyone).

Many are asking "why so sudden and so short?". I have my personal reasons but one of the reasons is "I don't have long holidays" (isn't that obvious?).

Yes it's definitely short but yes I'm actually glad I took this effort to go back home. Spent so less time with parents and family (Jasmine's bar was great as ever :) Six people, 24 tins?! Damn!). Cleared out the black clouds and went into the grey ones. Met up with first-timers (cousin? uncle? got to make that clear one day). And of course the food :). I wish I can stay longer but I have to get back to reality.

A few things when I was back.

The last time I went back, the announcement was "please switch on your phone when you are inside the terminal building". But this time it was, "you may switch on your phone now (even when the plane is still moving)". Either way, it's public disturbance (because people just don't care). The guy next to me was talking all the way until the plane started moving :s.
Don't worry. The plane is not going to explode and there are only 2 doors opened. Unless you are as thin as a piece of paper, then please don't have rush.
Erm nothing much has changed except more traffic jams and slower life. More older generations, less younger generations? (Yes I know, everything is going to happen to Penang, with or without me).
Food was still as good as it was, but somehow I think eating or not eating, it was not the question.

Note: Sacrifice is about giving out the best (time, money, effort, hopes, wishes...) and not expecting anything in return.

Got to get back to what I'm suppose to be doing. It's going to be hard(er) but I guess I need to try.

typhoons and earthquakes

2009-10-09T15:16:00.005+09:00

It's a normal thing here in Japan to experience both typhoon and earthquakes. They happen every time. Luckily, in my 7 years (yes 7 already) here in Japan, I didn't get to experience disastrous typhoons or earthquakes (not that I'm wishing to experience one :p). It was said big earthquake will occur in Kanto Region but everyone has been saying it since I first came to Japan. :s

Typhoon Melor (refer here for 2009 Pacific Typhoon) hit Japan yesterday and 3 deaths, 89 seriously injured were reported on the news today when I switched on the TV. I think Japanese were quite ready because The Japan Meteorology Agency had given out warnings days before. Science vs God? With new technologies, the strength of disasters and the time, can be predicted.

Melor

Typhoon Ketsana (called Ondoy locally) hit the west of Pacific Ocean end of September, affected especially the Philippines, China, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Thailand (according to Wikipedia), killing hundreds of people and damaging agricultural land and properties.

That's Ketsana

Typhoon Parma hit the Philippines which made things worst.

Earthquake, magnitude 7.9, occurred in Sumatera, Indonesia on 30 September 2009. Even Malaysians felt the shake in Malaysia when it occurred. Over 700 deaths and over 2000 people were reported.

It think at time like this, humans will look back to what is life is really about. People are fighting to stay alive and yet political issues and regional demonstrations? That's so lame. Plus with the "help" of mass media, no comment. I just hope they are reporting facts. And I believe science is still the most important tool for humans to have a better safer life.

ATTENTION!

The Association of Filipino Students in Japan AFSJ is collecting funds which will be donated to victims through the Philippine National Red Cross. For donations please do to to the addresses below.

(Japanese Yen)
Account name: The Philippine National Red Cross
Account No. 151-2-15130001-9
Swift Code: MBTC PH MM
Address: Metrobank Port Area Branch Anda Circle, Port Area, Manila

(US Dollar)
Account Name: The Philippine National Red Cross
Account No. 375-283500026
Swift Code: PNB MPH MM
Address: Philippine National Bank Sta. Cruz Branch Sta. Cruz, Manila

For donations to be acknowledged, please fax bank transaction slips to +(632) 525-5654 or
404-0979 with donor’s name, address and contact numbers.
Guidelines for on-line donations may be accessed via www.redcross.org.ph

The Indonesia Student Association in Japan ISAJ too is collecting funds in Japan to help victims of the Sumatera earthquake. For donations please do so to the account below (in Japan only)

銀行名：ゆうちょ銀行

名前：在日インドネシア留学生協会

記号：10190

番号：85683851

p.s. I wish I can do more but right now this is what I can do.

vision

2009-10-09T00:43:00.005+09:00

In MOT (and especially together with the Big Boss), we usually talk about the importance of having the vision, missions and objectives in organizations/team (where the organization is heading, why are we having the organization, what are the things the organization is trying to achieve etc).

But one of the problem is, all these are set by the people on top, and do people in the organization(s) really understand? Let's put our country Malaysia as one organization.

The First Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra al-Ha j, or Bapa Malaysia (and his team) worked hard and got the Independence from the UK.

Race relations was the cause of Onn Jaafar stepping down. He wanted UMNO to be open to the Chinese and Indians but UMNO members were not ready to accept this. His successor, Abdul Rahman saw a way around this by forming a political alliance with the Malayan Chinese Association called the Alliance Party. The coalition proved to be popular among the people. The Alliance was later joined by the Malayan Indian Congress (MIC) in 1955, representing the Indian community.

-Wikipedia-

I don't really study the History very deeply (erm nobody does) but I think they had a vision that one day, people of all races can live happily under one country.

The second Prime Minister, Tun Abdul Razak or Bapa Pembangunan (right? sh*t. not sure :p) introduced the Malaysian New Economic Policy aiming to improve the socio-economy of Malaysia back then when Malays were in farming and fishing, Chinese were doing business and tin mine, while Indians were in working in plantations. Although the NEP was badly criticised and had negative effects (this also have to learn again) but I'm sure Tun Abdul Razak has the aim to improve the socio-economy of Malaysia.

The third Prime Minister, Tun Hussein Onn or Bapa Perpaduan, could have been the Bapa Malaysia but opening up UMNO wasn't a good idea (I guess) but I guess he too has the vision of combining all races under one country (or not he won't be called Bapa Perpaduan right?)

The Fourth Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir, erm he introduced so many policies during his time (OK the list is too long) but one of them, the Look East Policy was introduced to *ahem improve labour ethics, morale, and management capability among Malaysians. And Vision 2020 is to make Malaysia a developed country by 2020 (HELLO! less than 11 years some. need some rush here!!!).

The Fifth Prime Minister, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, let's just say I do not know him much because I'm away from home. Maybe the popular thing about him is his vision to cut out corruption in the country.

And the current Prime Minister, Dato Seri Najib Tun Razak, he introduced this 1Malaysia concept, where again unity is the main issue (things never change since back then huh?). Will take some time to study what is 1Malaysia, maybe write about it later.

The thing is, all these leaders, they introduce policies, BUT! how many really understand what is the meaning of all these? 10%? 50%? 80%?

How many knows where the leaders are taking us to?

What kind of organization (in this case country) are the leaders trying to shape?

And does the members of organization (in this case the people) even care about all these?

Again Vision 2020 is less than 11 years and we are left with so many issues. Are we into it or it's just a Vision of the ONE leader?

Will it be the same for other visions from other leaders?

So maybe join us (Oh boy. This is totally out of topic. lol.) at the Celebration of Merdeka and Hari Raya Aidilfitri at the Embassy of Malaysia in Tokyo (to know more about our country?) this Sunday, 11 October 2009. Refer to MSAJ's homepage for more information. There'll be food, performances, games and lucky draw. Prizes to be won!

*click on poster to go to link.

p.s. OK I'm just saying that is important that everyone knows the vision, the mission and the objectives to achieve whatever we are trying to achieve. :p

p.s.s. luckily I'm not writing on Prime Ministers of other countries. Japan has 60 Prime Ministers till now!

dividing myself

2009-10-05T16:54:00.006+09:00

The second term (October 2009 to March 2010) has started and the list of things to do has grown. If only I can divide my body.

Research
I'm working in lab (yes that's how I am got my money to stay in Japan, you d*mn *ssh*les who are getting free money. But well, I was one of the d*mn *ssh*les lol) and supposedly, (yes supposedly) my main purpose of being here is to do my research (No actually the second main. The main is to do my master in MOT).

I'm continuing my research that I've been doing since my years in Bachelor Degree (and mum asking why I do so long and yet cannot finish. It's because there's always a discovery after every experiment?) .

And today, the big boss set another new target for me (to be classified) and it's a erm somehow a high target. Higher than I expected. Extra work. Luckily I'm cutting down my numbers of lectures.

MOT
I'm taking less lectures this term but there are other things I have to think of, prepare. Instead of writing a thesis, I have to think out a Business Plan (BP) (actually the boss expects me to write the thesis too :s). And before doing that, I need to do Field Study (FS) and Case Study (CS), to support the BP. And I'll be doing part time, taking care the lectures. But then again, BP is something like writing thesis. If I don't bring my research into the story, then I have to another second work. Damn. But I don't want to bring my research in. Cleaning air business?

MSAJ
I'll erm try to continue what I started, although I do not know what or how much I am able to achieve in such limited time and cooperation. Hopefully it'll be better after the previous meeting but I really think everyone needs more understanding. And I think we need more people to run the organizations. More leaders. I have a few more ideas to be considered. Anyone interested??? (braechno@hotmail.com if anyone interested to be involved).

AYNJ
It was not suppose to be my total responsibility but somehow I ended myself into it. Not that I'm hating it. But I have to say, when motivation just goes down when it does not turn out what it is suppose to be. And yes I too support the idea of recruiting more people in. Again, anyone interested??? (erm braechno@hotmail.com???)

PERMATA
It's the student association that we created. Hopefully by the end of the year it will be stable and then maybe next year, I can continue on with other plans. But I have to say, I'm very thankful because everyone is giving their support and cooperation. But somehow I feel that many are still lost on what should be done or what is our objective. Will deal on that when I got some time.

So let's just face it. It's a new term. Everyone will be busy (not busy also will be somehow busy :s). I can see in everyone's mind "winter holiday, skiing, snowboarding, travel etc ". Who would think of "forum, study, thesis etc"?

It's going to be a tiring term and so does anyone know how to divide myself into a few me?

p.s. please go *flower* yourself if you are complaining you are busy.
p.s.s. and no being busy doesn't mean I cannot blog :p

permata

2009-10-03T23:00:00.000+09:00

It's a short form for "Persatuan Pelajar (Masyarakat) Malaysia Kawasan Tama", a local association which I suggested to one of my senior, Abang Shamsul back a few months ago. Tama Area or Western Tokyo is a part of Tokyo and located west of Tokyo's special wards.

-Map by Wikipedia Japanese version-

So why Permata?

I got myself involved in Malaysian Students Association in Japan MSAJ since last year (yeah I've said this many times and I think others might be thinking that I'm wasting too much time on that). And since last year I've suggest a new structure through Project Rising the SUN, which also kind of like a fairy tale story. (But of course I'm still trying. Just that right now I really have limited time).

And in the process of re-building the structure, I suggested a local association in my university, because there are many local associations in other universities; CUMSA, MSATU, MADINA etc. With distance as a big factor, who knows, maybe some prefer to get involved in a nearer environment (maybe that's not the real problem. and I know that). Plus, things are not going to happen if wait for MSAJ to make the moves.

The Four objectives (4M).

1.Mengeratkan (to promote togetherness)
There are about 20 Malaysians in my university, from Bachelor Degree up to Phd. And add up other universities, it'll be more than 40. It's just sad to hear "Eh, ada ke orang ini? Tak kenal pun" (eh, got such person? Don't know also). :s It really shows that people choose not to exist and they just don't care a sh*t about knowing own people.

2.Maklumat (to share information)
Information age. Information is important. Know something and not knowing at all makes a lot of difference.

3.Membantu (to help students, especially new students)
Studying/staying oversea is not an easy thing. Although many choose to draw a line and live on their own, but I think no man is an island. And at one point, reaching out is important and if reaching out to own people is a problem, then I think it'll be worse reaching out to others.

4.Mutu (to improve the quality and the name of Malaysia (ceh :p) )
Hopefully, with helping each other thing, things can be better. I always tell others, "Oh this association from this country is doing this, that is doing that." I don't like to compare but the reality is that we are so far behind, although we are calling ourselves one developing country.

I don't really have the time and energy to get involved in SO MANY THINGS. But I think it's the same for others. To make a difference, make time. Make effort.

Think Globally, Act locally.

Note: Sorry ler if too straightforward. But I really don't have time (and energy) to care about what other people think. Even if people think I'm crazy to spend so much time on these kind of things (which is not going to give me any Ringgit Malaysia or Japanese Yen or American Dollar. Self satisfaction, maybe), it's just the way I live my life. And yeah, people can choose not to read. :)

fire - dead by sunrise

2009-10-02T12:30:00.004+09:00

A good song that made the day! (although it's raining outside and there are so much worries and troubles :s ).

Heard them playing when Linkin Park was playing at Summer Sonic last August. Chester writes good songs :) Both Linkin Park and Dead by Sunrise have good lyrics for the right time.

No original video yet maybe, but here's "Fire".

No need to hear your voice
Or see your face
To know that you are with me
No need to kiss your lips
Or hold your hand
To know that you can feel me
I know that you can feel me

When I look to the stars
I know just where you are
You're looking down upon me
(You're looking down upon me)
When I look to the stars
I know just where you are
You're looking down upon me
(You're looking down upon me)

No need to get locked up
Inside the past
I know that isn't changing
No need to let you go
Or say goodbye
I know that you'll be waiting
I know that you'll be waiting

When I look to the stars
I know just where you are
You're looking down upon me
(You're looking down upon me)
When I look to the stars
I know just where you are
You're looking down upon me
(You're looking down upon me)

On the other side!

On the other side!

I've got to
Find a way
To keep my pain from burning
Down to the bone
I've got to
Find a way!
To keep my pain from burning!
Down to the bone!
Down to the bone!

When I look to the stars
I know just where you are
You're looking down upon me
(You're looking down upon me)
When I look to the stars
I know just where you are
You're looking down upon me
(You're looking down upon me)

hachini

2009-10-02T00:00:00.008+09:00

HACHINI DAY is a celebration ar. in this case, hachini is a name or a celebration. its v memorable ar.. so cannot simple change the name according to dates.
-gmail, Wed, Sep 2, 2009-

It was never easy and it will never be easy.

But no, I'm not giving up. I never did.

Impossible?

IMPOSSIBLE = I-M-POSSIBLE

Castle in the sky? That's Laputa :)

Happy Hachini!

It's one of the steps for a long journey ahead.

12 basic skills of working society

2009-09-30T20:34:00.005+09:00

This topic was discussed in my lab's Discussion last year and here I took a slide from Ministry of Economic, Trade and Industry (METI). Read more from METI.

Translating as a note? reference? I think this can be applied in daily life even as a student.

Three main clasifications. 1) Action, 2) Thinking and 3) Team work.

1. Action
1.1 主体性 (Independence) : eg. Not wait for other's instruction, find out what should be done and work on it.

1.2 働きかけ力 (Approaching skill) : eg. Move people around and work out together towards the goal(s)

1.3 実行力 (Skill to get things done) : eg. Not just do what has been told, set own goal, be persistance and not scared of failures.

2. Thinking
2.1 課題発見力 (Skill to discover the issues/problems) : eg. Propose out solutions to the problems found while reaching the goals.

2.2 計画力 (Skill to plan) : eg. Define multiple process in the solutions, investigate out the best process and prepare for it.

2.3 創造力 (Skill to create) : eg. Not just take in idea that already exist, but think out new solution to the problems.

3. Team Work
3.1 発信力(Skill to send out signals?) : eg. Organized own opinion(s) and convey precisely so that other party understands well.

3.2 傾聴力 (Skill to listen) : eg. Prepare a good environment for the other to speak, and ask questions at the right timing to get (his/her/their) opinions.

3.3 柔軟性 (Flexibility) : eg. Not just fix own rules and way but also understand and consider other party's position and opinions. (erm muahaha)

3.4 状況把握力 (Skill to grip the situation) : eg. When comes to team work, understand own's part/position.

3.5 規律性 (Well discipline) : eg. Comply to situation, follow the rules of the society, speak and act appropriately. (muahahhahahahhahahahahhaha)

3.6 ストレスコントロール力 (Skill to control stress) : eg. Even feel stressed, take it as a chance to develope/progress, relax and positively corresponds.

OK I'm not perfect. I'll take this as a good reference.

octoberians 2009

2009-09-30T00:00:00.005+09:00

Last day of September. Damn.

I'm listing out again Octoberians that I know, like what I did last year. Facebook, one good tool. :)

October. Many family members and friends celebrating their birthday in October.

Happy Early Birthday Wishes !!!
01 - Soo Lay Teo, Desmond Tan Loke Hoay, Grace Teh Ching Ai
02 - Pink Pinkie (cousin), Jee Jian Tan, Nadiah Azli, Hakim Kamarudin
03 - Sathiyaseelan Subramaniam
04 - William Lian, Prashant Subramanian
05 - Sabrina Nordin , Tan Kean Chew, Chee Jn, Oscar Antonio Jr
06 - Shiao Pei Lai
07 - Ho Jit Fah, Wernウェルン
08 - anyone??
09 - Peng Han Yee, Daniel Ooi (cousin)
10 - Pao Pao, Lee Chong En, Sotheary Nom, Ani Azidah
11 - Bobo Chng, Soo Bee
12 - Benny Ong, Ping May
13 - Kwang Sineenat, Joyce Chan, Toshifumi Motoori
14 - Nadhry Nadirman
15 - anyone??
16 - anyone??<
17 - anyone??
18 - Kelvin Beh Khai Meng, Kheng Hin
19 - Woei Jiann (cousin)
20 - anyone??
21 - YJi Chong (cousin), Chin Chim Liong, Darren Wong Hon Meng, Ys Tan
22 - Jerry Lee , Lim Li Jia, Andrew Soh Chih Jen, Kalai Madhi, Vege Salad
23 - Loh Kok Chung, Sze May Foo (sister)
24 - Tiffany Amy Kuo, Mi Fung Lee, Hazeril Mazlan, Jean Lee
25 - Seow Hoong Foo (sister), Philip Lee Chee Hoong
26 - Ch'ng Yeow Chuan, Jackson Lim
27 - Clare Kung
28 - Edi Azali Hadzri, not forgetting MUM
29 - Wei WeI, Cheng Ostrova
30 - Charles Toh Wei Heng
31 - Huan Lin, Ben Foo (who else but me)

But let's not get too excited about October. It's going to be hectic months ahead. *sigh