Nina's Chemistry

Husnuzon

2012-03-14T01:15:00.005+08:00

There is only one certainty in life and that is death. We live with not knowing what lies ahead of us. How can we deal with uncertainty? The simple answer is faith. Always have positive thoughts that Allah SWT will bestow upon us all the good things that life has to offer. Husnuzon.....even in adversity because when we are faced with difficulties we get closer to Him.

2012-03-07T07:49:00.004+08:00

Life is a comedy of errors. In our quest to seek His blessings yesterday Yazrina and I decided to meet up at the Masjid for maghrib prayers after our evening tea. Alas we did not mention which masjid. I was in BBB and she in UKM. Both of us thinking why is she taking so long. Yaz bbm saying she is on the upper floor and I looked up the dark and gloomy upper floor of masjid BBB. I was thinking why is she praying in the dark. Finally the penny dropped and I realised we were not in the same masjid. We had a good laugh. hai gelak betul kami berdua!

Rindu

2012-02-28T14:40:00.004+08:00

Rindu is the Malay word for missing someone you love.

Miss your smile, your smell, your sense of humour. Most of all I just miss you.

It is true that absence makes the heart grow fonder.
You have solidly stood by me and for that I want to thank you. Too many are too happy to scold me and say nasty things to me but I guess they won't dare because you are there to defend me. Syukur, alhamdulillah....

I even see glimpses of you.

For those who love Time is Eternity.....

Redha

2012-01-21T17:01:00.003+08:00

Redha itu maksudnya ikhlas.

Ada ramai di antara kita yang sering menggunakan perkataan redha tetapi sebenarnya apa yang kita maksudkan ialah pasrah iaitu menyerah.

Ada baik juga menonton filem "Ombak Rindu" kerana ia satu filem yang mengajar kita erti kesabaran.

Kesabaran itu memang sukar buat kita semua tetapi saya teringat pesanan seorang rakan "Yang, you perlu husnuzon selalu". Saya pula bertanya "Husnuzon? Siapa dia?"

Dengan tenang rakan saya berceritakan "Husnuzon, itu maknanya kita perlu sentiasa bersangka baik dengan Allah SWT".

Barulah saya memahami makna perkataan itu dan saya pun cuba mendalami erti sebenar Husnuzon.

Dalam hidup saya yang tidak menentu dan sering dipukul ombak, saya sering mencari kedamaian hati. Selama bertahun, saya telah mencuba pelbagai cara tetapi semua tidak membawa kebahagiaan.

Setahun saya hidup menjanda dan setiap hari saya mencari kedamaian yang saya impikan. Semakin saya mencari, semakin saya terpesong dari landasan Mu.

Takdir menentukan jodoh kita. Satu pertemuan yang tidak dirancang membawa ku kepada Mu. Seorang insan yang nampak begitu rancak rupanya begitu mengetahui selok belok agama. Insan ini berupaya menegur kehidupan ku yang telah lepas. Rupanya selama ini saya berada dalam dunia yang palsu, dan kepalsuan itu tidak membawa kedamaian hati yang kucari.

Saya peroleh rahmat dari Mu tetapi tidak menghargai Mu kerana tidak mengikuti landasan Mu.

Saya bersyukur kepada Allah SWT kerana menemukan ku dengan insan yang berhati mulia ini.

Saya bersyukur kerana sekarang saya benar-benar faham apa erti husnuzon.

Ada kala kesusahan yang kita fikirkan sebagai bala sebenarnya adalah rahmat kerana bila kita berada dalam kesusahan kita lebih mengingati Allah SWT. Kita lebih mengenali Allah SWT. Melalui hati yang hancur ini, kita memahami keinsafan dan keikhlasan. Allah SWT akan memberi kita ujian yang kita boleh lulus. Demi masa, semua akan berlalu. Tiada yang kekal kecuali Allah SWT. Allah amat sayang kepada orang yang sabar.

Ya Allah, Kau berkati insan mu yang kerdil ini. Kau lindungilah insan Mu yang kerdil ini daripada kemungkaran dan kejahilan.

Amin.......

Rahmat dan Barakah Allah SWT

2012-01-16T21:43:00.008+08:00

Today I had to invigilate my third year Solid State Chemistry paper in Dewan Tun Abdullah Salleh. As usual we get to meet other lecturers too from your own faculty as well as other faculties in UKM.

A colleague of mine from Nuclear Science who has not seen me for sometime commented "Prof. Yang, I love your "new look". Something must have happened to make you change. I used to think, when are you going to cover up". I just smiled at him.

Yes there have been many changes in my life all thanks to the barakah of Ramadhan in 2011. I have been through a lot in life. Some have been good and there were equally bad moments too. However, one thing that I have noticed is that Allah SWT has given me lots of good rezeki. Ever since my student's days, I always had money. No matter how bad that month has been, miraculously, money will come my way and get me out of trouble. I don't know why then but always I will get out of money trouble.

I remembered once, I went to Nottingham to see my cousin. My friend Latifah was with me and we waited at the station for my cousin to come. Somehow, there was a breakdown in communication and my cousin did not get the message of our visit. Remember this was in 1981 and there was no handphone then. Even if there was it was the size of a small bag! We waited and she did not turn up. We finally found a few Malay students who were kind enough to take us in for the night. Sure enough by the next morning I found my cousin!

There have been many things which I did during what I like to call my "Jahiliah" days. I feel so guilty just thinking about it. I was young and gullible and FOOLISH. However, I guess Allah still loved me despite all the wrongs that I did. He gave me a good life and ensured that I always had plenty of good food on the table.

Someone commented to me that I should not have it so good because of my wrong doings. I guess I am one very lucky girl.

So during the Ramadhan of 2011, after listening and pondering to the comment that I should not have it so good I started to reflect on my inner self. Yes I have been one very lucky girl to be given Allah's rezeki. Why I wonder? Perhaps, Allah chose it to be that way that I should receive His Rahmat and Barakah. Alhamdullilah.

So I figured that my luck cannot run too long. Perhaps it was meant to be this way so that I feel His presence and I am compelled to turn to Him and amend my ways. Yes, I began to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

So I took it in my stride to change.

I know when I turn and put my full faith in Him, He will not let me down. He will show me the way to the right path as we say in our Fatihah.

That is what I have done for the past 4 months. Turn to Allah SWT and let Him decide.

Even though there are turmoils in my life I accept and embrace them as challenges Allah has put before me. The greater the challenge the more He wants me to learn about Him.

I have learnt to be patient. Through patience we see His light coming through to guide us.

Syukur Ya Allah for your mercy on me. I know now that You have given me your barakah and rahmat so that I am reminded of You.

Syukur I have finally found You and I will never let go. I find inner peace on Your path. Please ensure that I don't ever stray again.

Ya Allah mohon Kau lindungi hamba Mu yang kerdil ini.

Amin......

My Ms Spotty

2012-01-13T08:27:00.005+08:00

She came into my life some 5 years ago. She was left behind by her owner and was shared between three houses. However, she preferred our home then as I ensured she had the best food.

When I moved to my new home I took her along. I was alone then and she is my constant companion. Our bonding became stronger and she would just sleep on my chest or just slumber on my notebook as I worked.

Over the years, Ms Spotty is like my lifeline to keeping a kind heart. No matter how hard the day has been she will be there to give me unconditional love. My spirits get a boost everytime she comes to me and looks me with the cuddly look.

Recently, my friend called me to inform me that she just lost her 11 year old cat Hazel. We both cried. I can feel her pain. Some people might laugh at us but I just empathise with her.

So Ms Spotty thank you for making my life richer and making me a better and compassionate person.

I know you are only on loan to me from Allah SWT. Syukur.

Auld Lang Syne for 2011

2011-12-29T17:38:00.004+08:00

"Should old acquaintance be forgot,and never brought to mind ?Should old acquaintance be forgot,and old lang syne ?" is sung by millions each year as we usher in the New Year. This haunting old Scottish classic always bring a tear or two, everytime I sing it. It is such a meloncholy song.

As 2011 comes to a closure and we say hello to 2012, I can't help but reflect back on this rather tumultous year.

When I ushered in 2011, I was still reeling from a failed marriage. I looked to 2011 full of optimism that I will push on in my career. By then, I had pushed myself to submit the corrected version of my syarahan perdana to Penerbit UKM. I celebrated the New Year Eve full of gusto with a night out in Cyberview Lodge with the rest of the Jhoras. I even had a party dress.

Yes I was optimistic with my life and wanted to get on. However, I was holding back on the love aspect as I just did not want to get into any serious relationship yet. I was telling everyone that I'm married to 5 men ie my research, ALIR, IKM, MESA and PCORE. I just don't have time for anyone apart from my work.

Certainly, I did my Syarahan Perdana on the 31st of March. It went well and I was elated. I was estactic that my family came out in full force to support me.

Yes I was moving along well in my life. No hassles no troubles. Just work and more work to occupy my life. I went to Kota Marudu to participate in the Karnival Kimia Malaysia and delivered a talk to the school children.

I was delighted when my son Muhammad Haziman made it into Medical School. I was the proud mother when I accompanied him for his registration. Good luck Haziman, your Mama will alwyas doa for you.

I also had to deal with loss of loved ones especially my aunt Mak Kak Bee. Miss you Mak and I promise to make prayers for you. I also lost a dear trusted friend Dr. Hamizer. Al-Fatihah.

I appeared on numerous TV shows on Awani. I gave my views on scientific and higher education matters. Yes life as an academician was fulfilled.

I was made a fellow of Institut Kimia Malaysia. Another feather to my cap. I must say that I was doing good. But I was perhaps a bit lonely.

So the year 2011 marked a big shift in my life after I met my soulmate, Wan Azarudin. Sometimes you just got to make a decision and move on. We decided to get married!

So 2011 will be the year marked as the year I remarried.

On the 9th of December I was so humbled that my husband, Wan Azarudin, my son, Muhammad Haziman and my close friends came to honour me as I received my fellowship from Institut Kimia Malaysia.

However, the biggest shift in my life was my change of lifestyle. I realised that it was time for me to get real and make peace with Allah SWT. During Ramadhan I prayed hard and syukur alhadullilah I saw what I needed to do with my life.

I finally made peace with Allah SWT.

Thank you Ya Allah for a blessed 2011. Don't let me stray from Your path ever again.

Amin.

The "Ter"s of life

2011-11-07T22:43:00.008+08:00

Life is a comedy of errors. Period. Well if you have a humorous outlook to life, you will see the comedy in the going-ons around us.

Looking back at my own life I can see a lot of humour in it. I always thought that I'll get married, live in this fabulous house and have fabulous children. Oh yes I'll have a fabulous husband too. I will live happily ever after like they say in the hundreds of M & B (Mills and Boons). Yes everything in my life will be fabulous.

Hold and behold I was in for a shock.

For beginners I got married al-right to a fabulous guy. But things were not too well down under. My first pregnancy ended in a miscarriage after three months. I was devastated and spiralled into a depression. I was momentarily happy when I got pregnant again, only to see it terminating itself after 8 weeks. By now, I was so desperate to be pregnant again but for once I listened to my doctor to just wait and take it easy.

I did and pregnancy came again and this time to full term with the delivery of Muhammad Haziman through cesarean section. Yippee....I got it right finally.

But I was unhappy with my house. It is not what I wanted and that got me depressed again.

I poured my unhappiness into my work. I found solace in sourcing out for grants and in 2002 I got the break. The Vice-Chancellor appointed me as the first Head, Department of International Relations. I was elated and poured my soul and energy in putting UKM on the world map. I worked tirelessly coming in on most weekends. However, in 2007 my work was unceremoniously torn down when PUSPA was disbanded. My soul was torn apart. Why oh why!

Aha now I look at it with a laugh. I guess Allah wanted to tell me something. Nothing lasts forever except for Him. Got it!

It was also during a trip to Graz, Austria in 2010 that I felt the need to get my life in order again. My marriage was not going anywhere and we hardly talk to one another. I guess we became strangers over the years. I finally gathered enough courage to talk to him and was so relieved that he agreed to a divorce. What was I thinking during my 20s! Fabulous marriage is now over.

My pride and joy though is my son Muhammad Haziman. I am so blessed to have him. I guess Allah again is telling me something. Be happy with the blessings He has bestowed upon me. Time for me to look at the blessings that I have in my life. Time to acquaint myself with the concept of husnuzon.

Finally I'm alone again and live in this fabulous house. I have a fabulous son. I have a fabulous career. I have fabulous friends and family. But I'm alone.

I continued giving out positive jibes and kept my mind happy with good thoughts. I prayed that He will show me the way to Him.

Then it all happened so fast.

Chance meeting while out jogging in Putrajaya. I needed a bike and he was there to give advice.

Later I joined the biking group and before I knew it we were married.

Wan and I are certainly the actors and actress of this drama. We terjumpa, terkawan and finally bernikah. Now this is really the comedy in my life but certainly not an error.

Now I can complete the equation. I have a fabulous husband.

I guess I must have done some right things in my life to be given such a blessed life. I hang on dear to all His blessings and feel ever so "bersyukur".

I guess it is how we look at things. If we see the big beautiful blessings that Allah has given us we will feel bersyukur. If we keep on harping and sweating the small stuff we will be forever unhappy no matter what.

Syukur Ya Allah for correcting my life and putting me back on Your track. Syukur you sent Wan Azarudin Wan Mahmud to show me that I needed to do a lot of changes in my life to get back to You. Thank you Wan for leading me back to Him.

Now I feel fabulous because I have found Him again. Amin.

AlFatihah my Trusted Friend Dr Hamizer Sukor

2011-10-31T15:11:00.006+08:00

Yesterday at about 10 pm Christine called me but I missed her call. I thought I had better return her call this morning as it was late. It was only later at about 11.30 pm that I was able to switch on my computer and logged into Facebook.

The words 'arwah ayah saya Dr. Hamizer Sukor" hit me like a brick wall. His son has posted it in FB and David Chan had reposted it in our MESA FB.

I was too upset and distraught to call Christine. All I could think was what can we do for him. I called Harith instead and he too was upset as all of us got the news last night even though the late Hamizer passed away after a heart attack on the 25th of October 2011.

Hamizer and I went back a long way. We were both in Standard One Red with Mrs Jothi as the teacher. Later we both got into the Express Class and we sailed along together till Form 2 always in the same class.

Hamizer was the brilliant and clever boy from Sg. Silisek who had to spend time in my house on Mrs Jothi's arrangement during sport's day. My association with Hamizer has always been good and we never quarrelled. Come to think of it he was always there very quiet but his presence was always felt. He was quiet but his aura was enough to reach the school gates. We always felt good to be around Hamizer as he had this smile that will melt our hearts.

Even though I left MESS Tanjong Malim in 1975 our paths crossed again in 1983 when I was shopping with my cousin NoorHashimah in Nottingham. I saw Hamizer who was taking a Maths course there. Again we lost touch till last year when a group of us from MESS decided to meet up again due to FB.

During the meeting we decided to set up the school Alumni and Hamizer was our first Protem President for MESA. He initiated the Alumni and got us to talk to the school being a teacher himself, it was not a problem.

I remembered during our meeting with the school in April last year, I took a ride in his MPV to Sg Bil. In the car for once he opened up and related on his life. I could sense that this was a man who had a lot of pain in his heart but kept it hidden from all of us.
Saying good bye to a friend is hard. Somehow, it is even harder with a friend that have been with you since day 1 in school. The special bond all of us had in the Express Class is priceless. Mrs Jothi kept us together and made us love and care for each other. When I think of the friends that have gone from this world the likes of first June Liong, Hisham and now Hamizer, there are silent tears sliding down my cheeks.

Hamizer, you gave so much and kept us from your pain. I pray you are free from pain and you are placed among the chosen people.

Your smile will live on in all our hearts. To all your students please continue spreading the love he gave all of you.

My deepest condolences to his children and family.

Goodbye my trusted friend. AlFatihah.

The Fall

2011-10-26T21:19:00.007+08:00

Cycling has been a passion of mine ever since young. We used to cycle everywhere as kids. I went to school on a bicycle. I used to run errands for my mother on my bicycle. When I was in Reading I had a bike which we used to go anywhere with.

I remembered going to Sonning using the bicycle path by the river Thames. It was so serene as we passed by fields upon fields of grazing rounds for cows. What was fabulous is stopping by the tea house for hot scones, strawberry jam and clotted cream. Now my mouth is watering. Yes cycling has featured strongly in my life.

Five months ago though cycling came back into my life rather serendipitously. Harith invited me to go cycling but I did not have a bike so went jogging instead. Harith was going on an on about cycling and I just listened. Later he lent me his bike and I took a ride round the Dataran Putra and I was hooked again. The cool night air brushing my hair and the beautiful setting of Putrajaya brought me to life again. It was as tough I never stopped cycling.

Now I have my Contessa that I ride on. No matter how tired I am, just put me on my Contessa and I come to life. The adrenalin just pumps into my system. What a wonderful feeling!

Two weeks ago though my cycling coach (for life) Wan introduced me to Putrajaya Challenge Park (PCP). I was very determined to have a go and get over my fear of going downhill. I failed even at the starting line. I had to practically push my Contessa downhill. Wan was not impressed at all. My maiden voyage into PCP was tough and I had two falls. One while going downhill and the other while climbing. However, I escaped with very minor bruises but my semangat was very much intact.

Yesterday we were at PCP again. I told myself that I can do it much better than last time. My semangat was high. I wobbled terrribly at the strating line but managed to stay on my bike. I can sense that Wan as not terribly impressed.

However, I plodded on climbing and going downhill. I was picking up and felt very confident, perhaps too confident when I got into our second trail. It was a tight squeeze with a tree to my left. I just sailed through and before I knew it I was thrown off my bike. I landed on my ride side and somersaulted over and landed on the bank with my right hand hanging on to what I thought was a branch. I could hear Wan far, far away going "Allah Allah...." He then commanded "Don't move" and all I could think of then was my breathing was fast and furious and I was shaking. But I was very alright. Syukur.

I was hanging on to my Contessa. In my sub-conscious reaction I was protecting my face from any objects.

It was a good 15 minutes before I was able to resume cycling again. I was lucky to get away with just minor bruises. Perhaps all my years doing aerobics came in handy as my poor body is still supple and pliable enough to take the tumble. However, my semangat was gone. I was carrying my bike more than cycling it yesterday. Even the smallest of doubt and I was off my bike.

I now have discovered my second cycling nemesis ie PCP (the first is steroid hill in FRIM). I know I will conquer my fear and sail through PCP.

All I need is patience and persistence. And a lot of encouragement from my coach@husband.

Wish me luck!

Keredhaan Mu

2011-10-18T20:17:00.003+08:00

The best feeling I always have is after my solat. There is a certain calmness and of letting go your destiny for Him to decide. You feel that whatever tests He puts you through it is for your own good to make you a better person. Allah SWT will not put you through a test you cannot pass. He loves all of us. Period.

When we have good thoughts about Allah and we trust Him fully we know that His good intentions will bring us closer to Him. We have to feel husnuzon that he will put us on the right path.

There were a time when I was younger and I felt that life was very unfair. When you are down you find it difficult to see the world in a positive light.

However, with age wisdom settles in and I now am beginning to understand the word redha.

When we redha we let go of many things and our main purpose in life is to serve Him and mankind. I guess He has been good to me giving me bountiful blessings even though there were times when I forgot Him.

Thank you ya Allah for allowing me to return to the right path. Perhaps I have done good in my life to deserve a son who is soleh.

Syukur Ya Allah for answering my pleas for a husband who is obedient to You. Syukur for granting me a husband who leads me in prayers and teaches me the finer points of Islam.

I feel that I have made peace with You finally.

Amin

Someone Like You

2011-10-14T19:46:00.007+08:00

When I first heard Adele I thought what a beautiful voice. That was Rollin in the Deep. However my hair stood on end when I heard the live version of this Someone Like You. It just brings out the raw emotions in your soul. She does not just sing beautifully but she truly brings her soul to the surface in this live version. Enjoy it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCya1yiFFP4&feature=BFa&list=PL17FF701C38E098EC&lf=mh_lolz&index=53

How often do you meet people who can move your soul in and out.

Of the millions of words in the English dictionaries the word I love most is serendipity. When growing up I used to love reading romance novels and the term serendipity kept cropping up which means happy chance discovery.

There are many important discoveries in science which is serendipitous in nature. The drug cisplatin which has helped cure many patients with cancer is a very apt example. Rosernberg carried out an experiment in a laboratory with glass windows. During the experiment sunlight lit the electrolysis set he was using and caused a reaction that changed the course of inorganic chemistry! Another good example is teflon. They were studying reaction mechanism and chanced upon this non-stick material. Both cisplatin and teflon were discovered by accident and very happy one though.

Which brings me to our chance meetings in life.

How many of us goes out of the house and say to ourselves "Today I shall meet my future wife or future husband". Not many right. That is why in matters of the heart, fate will play a big role. As often said in the Malay adage "Jodoh ditangan Allah".

I have seen many of my friends who had a long courtship only to see them going their separate ways.

I remembered meeting this old couple who met on a cruise ship. She was Australian and he was British but the short summer romance ended with a 50 year and still going strong marriage. Serendipity!

I gather serendipity will play a big role in our lives if we have a pure heart. Think positive and good things will drift into our lives. Even my students are requested to say their doas before each experiment. Think good things and you will end up with cancer curing compounds. Fate will always overrule the chemistry.

Serendipity will play cupid when you least expect it. So to all my dear friends still looking for love keep an open heart.

For those who love TIME IS ETERNITY.

Voices of Peace, Conscience and Reasons (PCORE)

2011-09-21T15:28:00.006+08:00

Madam Curi with Datuk Sri Sharizat and other PCORE members

Madam Curi and other committee members were in awe of Tun Mahathir

Madam Curi with Datuk Sri Shahrizat Jalil. She is such a warm person

It was just last year during Ramadhan that a group of us from Facebook decided to meet and discuss what we could do as the silent majority to address extremism. We thought hard and came up with the name Voices of Peace, Conscience and Reason and we decided on PCORE for short. Our main role is to promote unity at the individual, community and organisational level.

It has just been over a year and we are moving. Four months ago we have become a registered citizen movement association with the ROS. We are mobilising our team members. Three months ago Zuriati and I had the opportunity to represent PCORE to attend a workshop conducted by Majlis Profesor Negara on the design of housing areas.

It was interesting to see the factors that played a role in ensuring integration and peace towards the design of housing areas. For example, how lack of parking bays can create tension and frictions.

However, besides the work we in PCORE enjoy a close and warm relationship with each other. We support each other emotionally and spiritually too.

Many were asking me about my new look during PCORE's recent meeting and Hari Raya gathering in Datin Halimah's place in Damansara Heights. I just smiled and said "Time to cover up again". Perhaps many did not realise that I once covered my hair but took it off during difficult times. Some went like "Yang, so where are all your sexy outfits?" to which I replied "Yes I still have them". Peter (husband to Farida) was upset that I should cover my hair. He reckons I look younger without my tudung. And the debate went on and on.

However, my friend Datuk Atikah was very understanding and hugged me tight and wished me luck.

As Ibrahim my good friend and next door neighbour in the office would say "Nina you look so different now". Whatever the feedback, what I do know is that I have found peace and contentment within my inner self.

Syukur Ya Allah kerana melimpahkan rahmat dan rezeki Mu kepada insan yang kerdil ini. InsyAllah niat dan hati yang suci akan membawa ku kepada Mu.

Now that was my inner voices of peace, conscience and reasons talking. A pure and big heart will overcome obstacles along the way. Amin.

My Contessa

2011-09-20T20:45:00.010+08:00

Phew made it down the steep slope

My first medal

Syukur collected all seven stickers from all the checkpoints

Rasali is also into cycling

My life is filled with many passions. I don't do things in half measures. Ever since young I have always enjoyed indulging in some form of exercise. In school we played rounders before classes began and during recess. At home we had a nice garden and we would play badminton. However, living in the 'kawasan maktab' meant we could go on bicycle rides in a relatively safe environment.

My friends and I would ride everywhere. We would go for picnics and visit each other with our bicycles. Riding was our passion. Alas when I moved to Kuala Lumpur, we had no where to ride as the roads were too dangerous with lunatic drivers.

My hobby came back into my life when I did my PhD. I had a very simple bike but I would go everywhere with it. The hill outside Hillside was a challenge very early in the morning. I had to climb it to get to the Chemistry Department. And during weekends I would go riding in the countryside.

When I got home from my PhD the only cycling I did was on a stationary bike in the gymnasium. I would cycle for miles and get no where. After 20 years of gymnasium I decided to call it quits. All because Harith invited me to go for a jog on one Thursday night in Putrajaya by the lake. Later he insisted that I tried his road bike and I was hooked. The memories of the thrill of riding a bike came rushing back. I could feel the cool night air filling my lungs out. I was mesmerised by the beautiful lights of Putrajaya.

It was not long before I got myself a bicycle, my Contessa. I rode in Putrajaya mainly at night away from the harmful rays of the sun. I began to regain my strength and endurance.

Last Saturday I took part in my first ever Jamboree, The UKM Mini Jamboree. I puffed and skidded on the trails that was slippery with mud. My beautiful Contessa was covered in mud. At one stage my eyes was spluttered with mud. I had to stop and wash the mud out with water from my water bottle.

The off road in UKM was challenging to say the least. I had to carry my Contessa on a few steep slopes. However, I was pleasantly surprised when my coach complimented on my ability to control my bike down a rather treacherous slope. That was very sweet because most of the time he would be shouting at me to change my gears correctly! Later I could see from the photographs that many men had to carry their bike down the slope.

Finally after much huffing and puffing I was at the finishing line. The climb towards the finishing line was tough. I wanted to do it in style and kept on pedalling.

Suddenly my student was telling me that I was in the 15th position for Women. I gather she was so excited for me. Yes I managed to complete my first Jamboree. I collected all seven stickers. More surprise was in store as they gave me a medal. Biar betul!

Now I'm hooked on cycling. I look forward to more Jamborees. The thrill of going through a difficult course is so fulfilling.

I feel so alive. Thank you everyone who has helped me rediscover cycling. A special thanks to my coach@husband, Wan Azarudin Wan Mahmud for always cheering me on. At times you were very tough on me but it was worth all the shouting :)

Next Jamboree please!

AlFatihah Prof. Khalijah Mohd Salleh

2011-09-18T09:19:00.006+08:00

Yesterday we received sad news on the passing of a great academician, Prof. Dr. Khalijah Mohd Salleh. She was my mentor, my friend and a sister all in one. She gave me guidance during my initial stint as a young lecturer. Always there urging me on to reach for the stars of academia and at the same time reminded me of my true purpose in life ie to serve Allah SWT.

I will always remember Khalijah as a fighter never yielding to the pressures of politics of academia. She lead all of us young women in academia then how to "fight' injustice by men. Remembered how she spoke her mind during Faculty meetings and her ideas initially might be brushed aside but she persisted and cajoled and slowly changed the mindset of even the hardcore. She triumphed in getting her good ideas implemented. Looking back, I used her methods to influence my colleagues to accept my ides.

Arwah Khalijah, thank you so much for your guidance. May you be among the chosen people in heaven. I will miss you terribly.

AlFatihah.

Ms Spotty

2011-09-16T08:59:00.005+08:00

She came into my life two years ago. Somebody left her and she was being shared by the occupants of the three houses in Bandar Baru Bangi. Ms Spotty is so lovable and she just has the knack of warming your heart. Remembered the day when Papa and the rest of the Jhora came for a makan session and how Ms Spotty just sat on Papa's lap and Papa wanted to take her home instantly but Mama said no cats in the house. Alas, three weeks later both she and Papa took three kittens left behind their house!

Cats have always featured in my life. Ever since young I always had a cat. Remembered Manggis, my black cat who gave birth to many kittens that my Mum decided to leave her and kittens across the river in Ulu Bernam, some 5 km away from our house. How my sisters and I cried and begged her not to do it. Alas parents think they know best, but not really. Two weeks later, Manggis and kittens reappeared on our doorstep to our joy and to my Mum's regret. Manggis stayed on till she died.

When we moved to Kuala Lumpur we had this crazy cat called Yara. She would sit on top of our TV and let her tail dangle much to our annoyance as we tried to watch TV. She would just come and sit on our lap and for no reason at all would suddenly jump and scratch you. We reckoned she was schizophrenic and required high dosage of litium. Perhaps that explained Yara's penchant for salt!

Even when I was in Wrexham we had Siti, the tom cat shared by all of us girls in Beech Gardens. And when I was in Manchester I had Rusty. She kept me company especially during those cold winter months. Nice to have a live leg warmer. However, her upkeep was expensive especially when you are on a tight government scholarship. But it was worth it as she gave me the emotional support during the stressful examination months.

Now Ms Spotty is always by my side as I moved into my new abode. For a year she has shared my turmoils and tribulations. She has been there without complain. She is one very spoiled cat but we all love her. She is adorable especially when she race you up the stairs and her fat belly wobbles left and right. You get my drift I'm sure. And as I'm writing this post she is nicely curled up next to me.

Cats makes your heart go soft. Cats make you become a big hearted person. Cats make you appreciate the blessings Allah has bestowed upon you. Cats too has ensured that my rezeki has been plentiful. We always had food on the table. Period.

Thank you ya Allah for all your blessings.

Syukur Ya Allah

2011-09-10T08:46:00.003+08:00

Syukur Alhamdullilah Eid and Ramadhan this year has made me a better person. It has given me clarity in this endless journey of life. Ramadhan and Eid was tough as I was presented with many turmoils and difficult decisions to make. A bit like the Malay adage "Ditelan mati emak diluah mati bapa". When presented with a dilemma what do I do.

Syukur, I waited and prayed for his guidance and blessings.

I guess Haziman's decision to study medicine gave me an inkling of what I need to do. I brought him into this world and no matter what, my priority will have to be in ensuring that I guide Muhammad Haziman to Allah's path.

Next I had to really change my lifestyle to gain His blessings. I realised that I have been one very lucky girl. Allah has granted me so many blessings and I am humbled by His generosity.

Perhaps it is time for me to truly find Him again. I have always tried but not hard enough.

Whatever I needed in life has come to me. A good son, a successful career, a comfortable house to live in and all the little luxuries that I can possibly want. I have even done my Syarahan Perdana.

So it is indeed time for me to get rid of those unwanted baggage and get on the highway to Him. Syukur my prayers have been answered as You have revealed to me a carrier of your good faith. Maybe I have been blinded previously by material wealth and forget the little pleasures of life. That smile, that nod, that blink which brings meaning to life.

Syukur Ya Allah for this revelation. I am blessed that you have answered my doas to keep me on the right straight path.

Ramadhan the Month of Plenty

2011-08-08T12:11:00.007+08:00

We are again into the month of Ramadhan. What I find most compelling is that this is one month where there is plenty of everything. Plenty of food everywhere for a start. There is of course Param (Pasar Ramadhan), Baram (Bazar Ramadhan) and for the elites there is the endless Ramadhan buffets in 5 star hotels. Then there is the endless tazkirahs, from lunch to after terawihs. Of course there is the terawikhs in various suraus and masjids. Everyone has a favourite place to go to. Finally Ramadhan is a month of plenty for sedekahs and time to make plenty of pahala.

Our prayers and doas are given special emphasis in this holy month. The more we revel in prayers and doas, the more we look deeper into our souls, the greater the impact of Ramadhan. I have to add that my fervent doa has been answered this year on the 8th day of Ramadhan. I have always wished for my son Muhammad Haziman to enter university. Today he begins life as an undergraduate student reading Pharmacy at Cyberjaya University College of Medical Sciences (CUCMS). He has studied hard to get through foundation and I am always there to cheer him all the way. My doas for him.

With all the plenty that we have let us not forget the hungry children in Somalia. Let us just eat according to our needs and not our desires. Let us practice compassion and patience when dealing with others in our work place and in our daily life. Smile more and complain less.

Last but not least let us show thanks to Allah SWT for blessing us with the most precious gift. The gift of life. We are truly blessed to be alive and the best way we can show our thanks to Him is by being present each moment. Let our presence in this world be the connector to other plenties. More knowledge to our students, more money for the poor and more love to everyone around us.

Ramadhan is certainly the month of plenty. Syukur Ya Allah for showing me the way. May You guide me and Muhammad Haziman always. Amin.

Time after Time

2011-06-17T11:30:00.001+08:00

It seemed like only yesterday that I was singing Cindy Lauper's Time after Time but it has been in reality a good 26 years ago! So much has happnened during that "short" span of time.

In January 1984 I thought hard about what I ought to be. Back then I was studying Chemistry in Manchester. Life was pretty mundane, wake up, rush through breakfast, brisk walk to campus to be in the lecture hall before the professors got in. Go through the lectures, try an grab a hot chocolate in between lectures. Grab a sandwich, a pint of milk and a bar of chocolate (the little luxury I allowed myself) before laboratory classes.

Laboratory classes were fun and full of action. We would get our own table with a full cupboard of glasswares. I still remembered doing the test with sodium. We would all get excited at the prospect that it burns in water. Remembered doing this synthesis in the third year. I thought I got it wrong as mine was different from the rest of the 68 people in the class. Hurray, for once I got it really right!

My most memorable time in the laboratory was when Dr. Fields reminded me "Ms Abdul Aziz the next time you forget your goggles, I'll ship you back to Malaysia!"

In the midst of all my rather hectic life I had to figure out what I wanted to do. I was partial towards an academic life. After all I did grow up surrounded by academia. My father was a lecturer in MPSI and we used to follow him to the Dewan Suluh Budiman. I thoroughly enjoyed growing up in Sultan Idris Training College which today is Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris. We attended plays, sports days, listened to lectures and played on the huge field. Yes! Indeed it was a stress free life.

Recently, all these memories came alive again after laying dormant. I had to deliver my inaugural lecture and had to go through many photographs for the exhibition. I am positive my growing up years gave me a sound background to where I am today. The school and SITC/MPSI/UPSI academic setting made it possible for me to see even then that I one fine day I'll stand infront of an audience and deliver a good lecture.

My family came in full force all 20 of them on that day grand day of 30th March 2011. After almost three years of intense writing and preparation it was time for me to give my lecture. So sweet of Zie and Lily to bring a bouquet of flowers for me. It was a proud moment when I walked into the Senate Room accompanied by all the senior professors in my department and my flowers. They too came out in full force to honour me.

In the Senate Room my Mama, Papa, son Muhammad Haziman, Fauzi, Adek, Talib, Idah, Yuz, Kam, Baby, Kak Ana, Sean and my friends, Fazlina, Azza, Harith, David, Afidah, Chrissette, and many others were there waiting anxiously perhaps.

I knew it would go well. The lecture began and my vision way back in 1970 as I stood in Dewan Suluh Budiman envisioning myself delivering the lecture has become a reality.

All too soon it was over. I did not cry and proudly presented the book "Struktur dan Kereaktifan Biologi Kompleks Organotimah, Penawar atau Racun" to UKM's Vice-Chancellor. My life as a professor has just begun.

For those who love Time is Eternity!

Friendship

2011-04-13T18:09:00.002+08:00

My biodata as seen through AP Dr. Kalaivani's eyes. Thank you dear.

Yang Farina Abdul Aziz dilahirkan pada 9 November 1962 di Hospital Besar Kota Bharu, Kelantan. Beliau dibesarkan di Kuala Krai, Kelantan sehingga tahun 1964 apabila bapa beliau seorang guru dipindahkan ke Maktab Perguruan Sultan Idris (MPSI), Tanjong Malim, Perak. Dewan Suluh Budiman menjadi gelanggang untuk beliau bermain dan menyaksikan pementasan ulung Bukan Lalang Ditiup Angin yang meninggalkan kenangan manis yang mendalam dalam dirinya. Alam persekolahan beliau bermula di Methodist English School, Tanjong Malim sehingga Tingkatan 2 sebelum berpindah ke Senior Methodist Girls’ School, Kuala Lumpur. Pada tahun 1979, beliau ditawarkan biasiswa MARA untuk melanjutkan pelajaran A-level di Koleg Aston, Wrexham, Wales, United Kingdom. Beliau memperoleh ijazah Bachelor of Science (Honours) dalam bidang Kimia daripada the University of Manchester pada tahun 1984 sebelum meneruskan pengajian peringkat PhD di University of Reading pada 1985. Beliau dianugerahkan ijazah PhD tiga tahun kemudian dan melaporkan diri sebagai pensyarah di UKM pada 23 Disember 1988. Yang Farina adalah Juruaudit Persekitaran ISO 14000 bertauliah dan memperoleh Diploma Penterjemahan pada 1992. Sekiranya Yang Farina ditafsir dalam konteks kimia atau cabang kimia (branch of chemistry), saya rasa beliau boleh dilihat sebagai gabungan tiga bidang kimia yang berbeza. Komponen Yang Farina yang ditafsirkan oleh bidan kimia inorganik dimana beliau adalah pakar bidang dengan geran kementerian da industri yang membolehkan beliau menghasilkan pelajar yang berwibawa dan lebih 100 makalah anatarabangsa dan tempatan. Kimia tak organik yang melihat pada struktur dan interaksi juga mencerminkan sifat Yang Farina yang teratur dari segi melaksanakan tanggungjawab dalam kerjaya, peribadi dan keluarga. Keupayaan beliau berinteraksi dipelbagai peringkat juga merupakan satu lagi ciri beliau yang boleh dilihat ketika beliau memegang jawatan Ketua dan seterusnya Pengarah Perhubungan Awam di UKM, sebagai Penyelaras ALIR, ahli Majlis Professor-Professor dan juga tetamu di rancangan AWANI. Sumbangan beliau dalam arena pendidikan ini dikatalisiskan (dimangkinkan) oleh kinetik ciri diri yang cukup bertenaga, vivacious dan bersemangat “Farina Boleh”. Seterusnya komponen Yang Farina yang dilihat dari konteks Kimia Hijau (Green Chemistry) dapat dilihat melalui aktiviti penyelidikannya yang menangani masalah pencemaran persekitaran oleh bahan buangan industri dan perumahan untuk menghasilkan persekitaran hijau yang lestari (greener sustainable environment). Sifat kimia hijau ini juga boleh dilihat dalam hubungan beliau diantara rakan dan saudara dimana selain daripada memberi nasihat dan tunjukajar yang bernas, beliau juga mensyorkan terapi retail sebagai kaedah yang paling mujarab dalam menangani segala tekanan dan masalah dunia (lol). Seperti juga jawatankuasa penyelidikan beliau yang cukup cekap dalam menangani isu-isu saintifik, beliau juga mempunyai jawatan kuasa pemerolehan yang terdiri dari ahli keluarga dan rakan-rakan yang giat invest dalam Miu Miu, Prada dan Louis Vutton. Rasional disebalik aktiviti pemerolehan ini adalah untuk memberi lonjakan kepada ekonomi negara Malaysia. Akhir sekali professor Vogue ini juga dapat dikelaskan sebagai Kimia Analitik (analytical chemistry) dimana selain daripada menunjukkan penglibatan yang menyeluruh dalam perkembangan bidang kepakaran beliau, aspek analitikal, pandangan dan pemikiran kritis Yang Farina telah menjadikan beliau terkenal di kalangan akademia, dan jaringan sosial yang lain. Yang Farina juga giat memainkan peranan dalam mengetegahkan isu masyarakat melalui penulisan di dalam akhbar, blog dan Facebook serta penampilan dalam temu ramah bersama media siaran. Melalui jaringan sosial ini Yang Farina dan rakan-rakan sedang berusaha mengintegrasi masyarakat melalui Voices of Peace, Conscience and Reasons. Beliau dilantik menjadi Ahli Majlis, Anggota Majlis Pemikir dan Pemandu Persatuan Orang Kota Bharu (POKB). Yang Farina juga adalah Presiden Protem, Methodist English School Alumni, Tanjong Malim (MESA). Di luar arena Pengajian Tinggi, ahli kimia “tiga dalam satu” ini merupakan seorang ibu yang penyayang, kawan yang setia yang mudah didampingi, kelakar dan sentiasa mempunyai outlook yang ceria dan optimis dalam hidup. Mengikut seorang rakan sekerja, tag-line yang paling tepat untuk Yang Farina adalah “Gaya, Mutu dan Keunggulan”. Walau bagaimanapun tag-line ini sudahpun diambil oleh Dunhill maka terpaksalah ditukar kepada Kimia, Keakraban dan Vogue.

Election Galore

2011-01-23T20:25:00.005+08:00

Last year a friend requested me to help him with his Persatuan Orang Kota Bharu (POKB). My role would be to act like a think tank on education matters. The Persatuan's main role is to help anybody hailing from Kota Bharu particularly in business, education and health. I agreed to be part of this Persatuan provided that the aid would not be biased to any political party.
My personal view has been that as an academician I have taken the stance of not belonging to any political party. I wish to exercise my freedom to voice concerns when there are unhealthy practices.

Lately, there has been a number of by-elections. I used to remember a time when not much attention is given to by-elections. Now, the whole entourage would hit the small town and the latest is Tenang. There was a time when PAS delegates would put up in the smaller and cheaper hotels as budget was limited. Well folks not anymore. Four days ago I was in Johor Bharu for a meeting with IPASA of UTM and bumped into YB Nizar, ex-MB of Perak at the Puteri Pacific. So, PAS is not so frugal anymore and don't see any wrong in choosing comfort and splurging on five-star hotels.
My question to the politicians is that why do you make promises, saying that you will help the community if you are elected. I remembered in one instance that a bridge would be built if BN wins in this parliamentary by-election. Isn't that disguised bribery. I will only do the work if you vote for me. If not your are not getting your bridge even though you are a citizen of Malaysia and deserves the help from the government. Anyone out there please care to explain.
In developed nations the government work for the people. Period.
One thing though that still has not changed. During our drive down south we overtook some 30 FRU trucks. Strong police presence can only mean that there will be trouble.
All is not lost though as we strive to educate the people of this great nation, our beloved Malaysia. Perhaps in a few years time we can see more civilised debates in parliament. No more kangaroo courts posters and walkouts but a parliament that does work for the people.

Which State?

2010-10-31T07:34:00.005+08:00

Ever since young I would get very uptight when people asked me "Where are you from?" I get exasperated when I have to fill up forms.

This is the most difficult question for me as I don't know how to answer it correctly. Usually I'll reply with another question "What do you mean by where? How do you define where?" And there, I'll be hit with a variety of definitions such as "Your place of birth, where you grew up, your parents origins, where you live now" and the list can be exhaustive.

When I go by the definition of place of birth I will say "I was born in Kota Bharu, Kelantan" and I cringe when the person asking is from Kelantan and starts "speaking". I have over the years mastered a sprinkling of Kelantanese to get by but when I speak some say I sound like an "Ore Sie" i.e. translated I sound like a Siamese lady. So I fear opening my mouth to "speak". Then I'm obliged to defend my lack of mastery in the language going into a lengthy explanation that "Saya lahir je di Kota Bharu tapi besar di Tanjong Malim".

Then comes the second definition "Where I grew up in". Yes I practically grew up in Tanjong Malim, Perak. I love the town and the Banjaran Titiwangsa. I would say this small place have a special place in my heart. I spent 12 years of my life in this small town. My personality and traits were built based on interactions with friends in this academic town. Perhaps that explains why I ended up being a lecturer. The basis was there in my growing up years.

Then there will be some people who define "Which state?" by the place where your parents come from. Again I have much trouble as my father is a true Mamak from Penang and we have relatives still living on the island. At home my Dad will speak "Penang" to us. As to my Mum, she hails from Pahang and very proud of her roots. I have noticed though that the Pahang people have a huge circle of relatives. Everywhere we went she is bound to meet her saudara. When the Pahang people get together there will be shrills of words coming from everyone. Some how miraculously they hear and listen to each other.

Finally the definition of "Where I currently live and work". Well I live and work in Selangor. Have been in this state for the last 20 years. I love my place of work UKM but I just don't feel like being an "orang Selangor" at all. I feel more like a KLite i.e. "orang Kay Ell" so to say. I'm most at home in the shopping malls especially KLCC and The Gardens. Selangor to me is non-descript, on the periphery to Kuala Lumpur.

Back to the question of which state. I can truly say that I'm a Malaysian. I can identify with so many states in Malaysia. So now if anybody were to ask me where I hail from my simple answer is "I'm a Malaysian!". Period.

The Bag

2010-05-26T21:23:00.007+08:00

There it was in the showcase the most beautiful handbag in the world. It looked so chic and just the accessory any woman would want. Anyone passing by the window would take a look at the bag. The scene is still fresh in my mind even though it was more than 25 years ago. How I would go shopping for my food on a Saturday morning and without fail I would stop to ogle at the bag and dream about buying it.

Life then was filled with lectures in the morning and practicals in the chemistry laboratory in the afternoons. Life was tough when you are a government scholar in Manchester. The monthly stipend was very small and enough to just cover our food and accommodation. Talk of food and I remembered that I could not afford to have lunch in the cafeteria. Lunch then was a sandwich with half a pint of milk. Well at least milk was cheap and very filling, enough to tie you up till dinner.

Everytime I see the bag on TV I would dream of the day when I would just walk into the store and buy the bag. And pay it not with cash but my credit card. Yes I would dream of the bag and every Saturday pay a visit to the store, daring to not even go in with my shopping bags filled with bread, cabbage, cornflakes, Friskies ect......Yes life was hard as a poor student.

Three years ago in November 2007 I was in Singapore for the Landmark Forum with Idah my sister. We went shopping at Paragon along Orchard Road and there I saw the store again. My sister and I decided to just go in and have a look around. There it was a different version of the bag and I fell in love with it. Idah played the cheer leader telling "Kakak you have worked so hard for so many years. You deserve this bag. The LV".

Indeed nothing beats owning the queen of bags, a Louis Vuitton. It is a brand that is loved by many. Kimora has so many that even her cat has one. Someone said a brand is about "Irrational behaviour".

Everytime I use the LV, I feel great because it represents the attainment of a dream and sheer hard work. It represented my journey through life. My celebration of all the hard work, sacrifices and finally the sweet success of your labour. Nothing irrational about that. It is very clear to me what my LV means to me.

The Bailiff’s Daughter of Islington

2010-05-24T18:45:00.001+08:00

THERE was a youth, and a well-belovèd youth,
And he was an esquire’s son,
He loved the bailiff’s daughter dear,
That lived in Islington.’

But she was coy, and she would not believe
That he did love her so,
No, nor at any time she would
Any countenance to him show.

But when his friends did understand
His fond and foolish mind,
They sent him up to fair London,
An apprentice for to bind.

And when he had been seven long years,
And his love he had not seen;
‘Many a tear have I shed for her sake
When she little thought of me.’

All the maids of Islington
Went forth to sport and play;
All but the bailiff’s daughter dear;
She secretly stole away.

She put off her gown of gray,
And put on her puggish attire;
She’s up to fair London gone,
Her true-love to require.

As she went along the road,
The weather being hot and dry,
There was she aware of her true-love,
At length came riding by.

She stept to him, as red as any rose,
And took him by the bridle-ring:
‘I pray you, kind sir, give me one penny,
To ease my weary limb.’—

‘I prithee, sweetheart, canst thou tell me
Where that thou wast born?’—
‘At Islington, kind sir,’ said she,
‘Where I have had many a scorn.’—

‘I prithee, sweetheart, canst thou tell me
Whether thou dost know
The bailiff’s daughter of Islington?’—
‘She’s dead, sir, long ago.’—

‘Then will I sell my goodly steed,
My saddle and my bow;
I will into some far countrey,
Where no man doth me know.’—

‘Oh stay, O stay, thou goodly youth!
She’s alive, she is not dead;
Here she standeth by thy side,
And is ready to be thy bride.’—

‘O farewell grief, and welcome joy,
Ten thousand times and o’er!
For now I have seen my own true-love,
That I thought I should have seen no more.’

Thank you Mrs Eva Jenny Jothi

2010-05-17T13:42:00.002+08:00

Last year I had an interesting text message from an old friend who was interviewing students and came across a candidate from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. This particular student took Chemistry and was asked who is her favourite lecturer. She replied "Dr. Yang Farina". When asked why the student replied "She is creative and jelas (clear)".

The text message made my day, no, made my career as an educator so meaningful. No money can buy the satisfaction of having made an impression on a young mind. I love my job as a lecturer. I am most alive when I'm in front of the students sharing my knowledge with them. I know I connect well when no one talks while I'm explaining the new quantum theory to describe the structure of an atom. Heavy stuff but I love strengthening my understanding of the subject so that I can make it simple for my students to understand. Simplicity does not come easy though. My experience has been enriched by the years of toiling in the laboratory with my students. Their questions has probed me into understanding Chemistry better. The intellectual enhancement gradually grew over the years but upon reflecting back the fine work by my teachers in school laid a solid foundation to make me what I am today.

Pondering on, I can't help reminiscing my school days in Methodist English School Tanjung Malim. There were so many teachers who impacted upon my education. For a start I'm totally indebted to Mrs Eva Jenny Jothi. Mrs Jothi was the teacher that was so different from the normal teacher. Till today those who took her class will attest to her innovative teaching methods. The boys had to take care of the girls. Assemblies and nature walks meant the boys had to hold our hands much to our embarrassment then. We each had a "partner". We were responsible not just for ourselves but our partners too. Talk of teaching boys and girls to live with each other. She was such an excellent teacher that she was able to single-handedly manage a class of 36 students aged 9 years old when we toured mosques and temples.We were worked by all teachers. If you complained to your parents, you will probably get another earful at home. If you did not do your homework you had to stay behind with Mrs Jothi seated at her table looking over you till you memorised the tables or the poems. Recently when we had our reunion many of us could still recite "The Bailiff's Daughter of Islington".

If we had a sport's day she would arrange for the boys from Sungei Selisek to have lunch and change in nearby students' houses. Mrs Jothi did not just know her students but the parents too.
Perhaps the advantage of being in a small town where we knew each other.

It was all not work though. We had class parties when we donned our pretty dresses and best clothes. She also taught us how to dance! We would travel to Tapah to give performances.Yes we had lots of fun but we knew the boundaries of discipline.We were thoroughly blessed to have a teacher like Mrs Jothi who was so passionate about teaching. I have been meaning to say this to Mrs Jothi for the last 20 years, "I totally appreciate what you did for me and wish to say a big THANK YOU."

You left an indelible mark in instilling discipline and a sense or pride in always giving the best in myslef. What you gave is being shared with younger students of mine.

The circle of learning lives on.

Eyjafjallajokull has the last laugh

2010-04-22T08:33:00.004+08:00

Picture courtesy of AP

Got this from a friend's FB post which I thought is so funny.

When Iceland's economy died, its final wish was that its ashes would be spread across Europe. You mess with Iceland? we shut down all your airports. Iceland turns to jokes -- and soul-searching

Asia Water Conference 2010

2010-04-08T22:00:00.004+08:00

The last one year we had been working with Indah Water Konsortium to study public's perception on the reuse of treated effluent. We are getting results and we are excited because in a way we are given the challenge to sell the unsellable.

So when IWK suggested we presented the initial findings we were very happy to do so at the Asia Water Conference 2010.

On the first day I was a bit apprehensive as there were not many people that I knew. The whole place was filled with people that were in the water industry. The who and who of the water world. They knew each other while I did not. I was a newcomer and a stranger.

Soon however, I was finding more and more familiar faces. Some attended the First Conference on Water Chemistry and Health (CWCH1).

Never did I anticipate meeting of old friends from my Manchester days. After almost so many years I met Rozali Haron and big Sam too. They are both in the Perak Water Authority. On the second day someone stopped me and asked if I still recognised him. Gosh how I had to rack my brains to remember the face again. He looked familiar but I just could not place him. I knew he was not in Wrexham, Manchester or Reading. But he was in the United Kingdom. Then he smiled and it clicked then. He was Habsah Md Jan's brother who visited her in the summer of 1981. Alas he was quite offended that I did not remember his name. A few sms to my friends in Wrexham and I found it...hmmm Ahmad Misbah who is attached to the Syarikat Bekalan Air Melaka. Managed to make him smile again after that.

It was in this conference too that MWA announced the setting up of Malaysian Water Academy, MyWA. We hope ALIR will be brought in to play a role in this water academy.

It was a good conference!

Goodbye Ruby Ahmad

2010-03-31T18:14:00.004+08:00

Last week we in the world of blogging and later Facebook were grief stricken to learn of Ruby Ahmad's death. A day before her death I thought it strange that I had not see any postings from her for quite some time. The next day there it was on Pak Idrus's FB posting. Ruby Ahmad is gone. She hid her illness from all of us. She was always giving. She had a big heart. She showed us all what it meant to be humble. What it takes to be kind to another human being. I had only met her once while shopping. She was going up on the escalator and I was going down .Our eyes met and we went like, "We know each other!". Ruby came down again to meet me and we exchanged hellos and promised to meet up one day for a nice tea. Alas that tea never materialised.

Al Fatihah Ruby Ahmad. May you be blessed by Allah and may you smile at all of us like you always do. Thank you for sharing your generous heart with me. Your heart will continue to grow as I share mine with others. Amin.

1Malaysia in Methodist English School Tanjong Malim

2010-03-15T18:55:00.015+08:00

The MES Alumni who visited the school on the 14th of March 2010

When I signed up with Facebook never in my wildest dream that I'll find many friends that I thought I had lost forever. These are friends from my school days especially those from Tanjong Malim whom I share a special bond with since I grew up there. My house faced the school and every morning I'll get up and take a peek at the school. I was always eager to go to school and will be very disappointed if I am only slightly late. My school faced the Banjaran Titiwangsa and every morning we would walk in the mist and most of us had cardigans to wear to school. No the air-conditioning was all natural.

Tanjong Malim was a small town but was special because it had the most prestigious Teaching College then the Sultan Idris Teaching College which later became Maktab Perguruan Sultan Idris and finally was turned into Universiti Perguruan Sultan Idris. We were a very small and close knit community. Everyone practically knew each other. At school the teachers knew not just us but our parents too.

We were thoroughly blessed to have a teacher like Mrs Jothi who was so passionate about teaching. Till today those who took her class will atest to her innovative teaching methods. The boys had to take care of the girls. Assemblies and nature walks meant the boys had to hold our hands much to our embarrassment then. We each had a "partner". We were responsible not just for ourselves but our partners too. Talk of teaching boys and girls to live with each other.

We were worked by all teachers. If you complained to your parents, you will probably get another earful at home. If you did not do your homework you had to stay behind with Mrs Jothi seated at her table looking over you till you memorised the tables or the poems. Ahhh till today some still remember "The Bailiff's Daughter of Islington".
We lived in harmony and peace. We were practicing the spirit of 1Malaysia even then. It was safe to go anywhere. We would visit each other during festive season. We cycled everywhere. Our parents knew that there were many watchful eyes ensuring our safety. If we ever got out of line no worries the news will get to our parents even before we got home and many of us did not even have phones let alone mobile phones. Yes life was pretty idyllic.

It was with such reminiscence that I discovered all my old Tanjong Malim friends in Facebook. Suddenly we were organising a get-together on the 9th of February at Mines Wellness Hotel. We were so excited to see each other again after 30 odd years. We were hugging and looking at old photographs. We cracked our heads to remember each other. The hotel had to politely ask us to leave by switching off the hotel lights one by one. We took it in our stride to meet again soon. We thought why not back to school. So beginning with just a group of just 4-5 the group soon gained momentum.

Yesterday there were about 50 of us at the school. We were amazed at the warm reception extended to us by the school board. I guess some things do not change. However, we were sad to see the dilapidated state of the buildings. It looked like time stood still as far as the buildings were concerned. Well we gave to the school yesterday but I guess we need to do more. We can't allow such a fine institution to be run to the ground. Mr Yoga, we shall try and help out. Dr. Hamizer has been given the trust to start the ball rolling by establishing a formal Alumni.

However, despite the happiness of seeing each other we were also sad to learn of the death of some of our old classmates notably Ahmad Hisham and Lee Jiun Leong. Alfatihah and rest in peace.

I have to say a big thank you to David for organising all the events. Thank you for getting me to be touch with my old buddies, Nina Khoo, Saliah and Krishna. Harith it is so good of you to have found me. To Mrs Chew thank you for being such a sport. To the rest of my friends, Yeen Heng, Lye Peng, Thai Thye, Pearl, Wendy, Alvin, Lucky, Kok Khuin, Hamizer, May Chee, Alvin, Tat Ming, Fook Meng, Goh Kim Peng, Sukumaran, Hasnol Aidi, Noreha etc...(sorry if I left anybody out, my ailing brain is trying hard to remember).

We left after taking lots of photographs. We have found each other again. I have found the sparkle in my heart. I smile imagining the Banjaran again. We shall be back and restore the buildings to its former glory.

At the back standing from left Kok Khuin, Dr. Hamizer. Front from left Nina Khoo, Cikgu Zarinah Ishak, Go Kim Peng, Norashikin and Madam Curi
The express clan from left Alvin, Kok Khuin, Dr. Hamizer and Madam Curi

Mrs Chew (left) handing over our contribution to Mr. Yoga, the Headmaster of MES TM
Dr. Hamizer handing over some books for the library

At the school canteen, from left David, Madam Curi and Alvin

Still fighting over the fan

The late Lee Jiun Leong and Ahmad Hisham @ Pink Panther (pictures courtesy of Nina Khoo)

The Jhora Queen

2010-03-12T18:53:00.002+08:00

It has been a long while since I went all out to fight for justice. I had been lying low in UKM for almost 4 years ever since Tan Sri Salleh left as the Vice-Chancellor in August 2006. The crux came when PUSPA was dissolved and it gave me the opportunity to just concentrate on my research. I just took time to relax and have fun going for more manicures and pedicures. Unwind after a very hectic 5 years of trying to enhance UKM's profile internationally. It was tough trying to be a professor and an administrator. So I gathered I had the right reason to just enjoy life again and the little pleasures that came with it.

So much has happened in the 3 years. My sabbatical was God send. I was able to enjoy my academic pursuits, write out research grants, write papers, present papers and travel to conferences with out having to worry about UKM. Little by little my academic capacity improved and for once I was invited to present a plenary lecture on Chemistry. The joy of being appointed a reviewer for a top notch journal, Applied Organometallic Chemistry!

I worked hard and plodded on with my research. On the side I was also requested by the Ministry to help them out with research on academia.

We embarked on the Penghargaan and Pengiktirafan Akademia project with gust. Thank you to all my team members for making the project such as success and now we are known as the "Feel Good Team".

Two weeks ago as I attended the UKM GUP assessment seminar I renewed friendship with many old friends. Suddenly, they are getting into my life again or was it that they never left but I ignored them because I was hurt. Perhaps.

Last week as I was attending a conference in Bangkok I was surprised by an email congratulating me as the new Head, Centre for Water Research and Analysis (ALIR). I could not believe it that the Vice-Chancellor has appointed me! Later when I returned to UKM and met my friend Ibrahim, I quipped, "looks like I'm forgiven" even though I still don't know what I did wrong in the first place.

Suddenly I found my fighting spirit again. However, my methods have improved and more refined. I had perfected my Being In Total Control of Him (BITCH) tactics. Suddenly doors are opening up infront of me without me having to knock furiously. I just smile that sweet (slightly wicked) smile and many are just happy to just open their doors. I call and they are willing to listen and help out.

The Queen Jhora is back my dear friends.

First Conference on Water Chemistry and Health CWCH1

2010-01-21T15:00:00.005+08:00

Madam Curi presenting her paper

Tan Sri Dr. Mohamed Salleh Mohamed Yasin, Director of UNU-IIGH (right) presenting a memento to Prof. Dato' Ir. Dr. Zaini Ujang, the Vice-Chancellor of UTM

From left Tan Sri Salleh, Prof. Kim (GIST) and Prof. Md Pauzi Abdullah (Head of ALIR)

Madam Curi (left) introducing Dr. Saad Jasim, CEO of Walkerton Clean Water Centre, Ontaria, Canada

In the year 2000 the United Nations launched its UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). There are 8 goals targeted to be achieved by the year 2015. The theme Ensure Environment Sustainability forms the seventh of its eight millennium goals. Under this theme the United Nations has set Target 3 as “Halve, by 2015, the proportion of the population without sustainable access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation”. The UN General Assembly proclaimed the years 2005-2015 as the International Decade for Action “Water for Life”. As the rate of pollution has escalated, the source of clean and safe water is depleted. Among the new emerging contaminants are pharmaceuticals. We have to resort to better techniques to purify our waters. The purification techniques can also create new toxic by-products which are detrimental to health.
To address the problems pertaining to safe and clean water, ALIR together with the United Nations University-International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH) recently concluded the 1st Conference on Water Chemistry and Health (CWCH1) held at the Putrajaya Marriott Hotel on the 24-25 November 2009. The conference was also supported by the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Korea (GIST), SPAN, NAHRIM and IKM. The theme “Quality Water for Health” attracted participants from the Ministry of Health, various water operators in Malaysia, researchers and students. Prof. Dato’ Ir. Dr. Zaini Ujang, Vice-Chancellor of UTM delivered the keynote address entitled “Value Creation in Water Sciences” which among others proposed the establishment of a key performance index for water. The importance of quality water for health was subsequently discussed by four plenary speakers addressing the four sub-themes of the conference.
The first plenary session on Advances in Water Treatment Technology was delivered by Dr Saad Jasim, the Chief Executive Officer of the Walkerton Clean Water Centre, Ontario, Canada. Dr. Saad shared with the participants how the Use of Advanced Technologies in Drinking Water Treatment (Ozone, UV and Membrane), can eliminate some of the newer contaminants such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products and endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs). On that note however, he reminded the participants that the most important lesson learnt about any water treatment technology is that no single technology can meet the full range of challenges encountered in treating raw waters to make them safe for public consumption. Even developed nations faced problems in their water supply giving Walkerton as a case study, whereby 7 people died as a result of drinking water contaminated with E. coli.
The second plenary speaker was Tan Sri Dr. Mohamed Salleh Mohamed Yasin who through his talk Improving Global Health through Safe Water: Threats and Challenges, highlighted the fact that the problem of safe water not only appeared in the 7th MDG but transcends the other seven too. The UN concern towards safe water may also be reflected through the involvement of 26 agencies in handling water related problems and certainly signified the magnitude of the problem.
The third plenary under sub-theme Health Impact of Water Quality was delivered by Prof. Kwong Woon Kim from the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) in Korea. Prof. Kim addressed the participants on the Arsenic Geochemistry and Human Health Issue in Asian Countries. Even though people have since stopped drinking arsenic tainted groundwater, the effect of arsenicosis was still prevalent in the Kandal Province of Cambodia because of previous consumption.
In the fourth plenary, Mr Chan Kam Wai from Solldium Sdn Bhd, presented Development in Water Treatment Chemicals (Potable Water Sector) – The Malaysian Aspect, in which he highlighted possible research projects that could be undertaken by universities. Amongst them are recycling of alum sludge and also undertaking studies to further improve the working conditions of water operators who handle a sizeable amount of toxic and dangerous chemicals.
As the two day conference came to a close it was very apparent that there are gaps in the industry that needs to be improved upon. For a start problems with small water operators such as those in estates and oil palm plantations have not been thoroughly investigated. It was also apparent that as the quality of raw water declines due to climate change, the water operators in Malaysia will have to look into the possibility of utilizing advanced treatment processes.
Till we meet again at the Second Conference on Water Chemistry and Health!

Goodbye 2009 Welcome 2010

2009-12-31T20:16:00.002+08:00

What a year 2009 has been. I thought of what I had accomplished. What impact I had made towards society. This afternoon though as I was reflecting it dawned on me like a tonne of bricks. What ever I did, nothing can take away the pain of losing a loved one. How insignificant are my accomplishments compared to the pain of losing a loved one.
5th of December will remain etched as the day we lost you Mohd Alfian Mohd Tahir. I did not realise how my eyes welled up with tears at the thought of not seeing you tonight as we gather to celebrate Azlan's birthday and also to usher in the new year. You will never be there ever again. However, your smile will have a special place in all our hearts. Your kindness and warmness will always be remembered by all of us.
To my good friend Prof. Kamarudin Mat Salleh@ Pak Din, your Rafflesia will live on through your students. We shall miss your cheerfulness and energy. I am already missing you. You were always humouring me with your camera. Now I know I have lost a dear friend.
May Mohd Alfian and Pak Din be among the chosen people.
AlFatihah.

Talk of Appreciation

2009-12-15T23:47:00.003+08:00

How best would you feel appreciated? To me it is when people listen and acknowledges you, would be the highest form of appreciation. Keeping to time is another form of appreciation because you acknowledge how busy people are.

However, lately many people are finding it difficult to keep to time. Bosses change their schedules according to their whims and fancies. And there our dear Rt Hon. Prime Minister is talking of 1Malaysia and KPIs!

1Malaysia is about having an egalitarian society. Everybody should feel like one nation irrespective of your standing in society. Are we there yet? A big no:(

Is it alright for you to just change meeting schedules at the last minute when people have made plans to attend? Is your time so important that you do not think of your subordinates' time? It is just not alright for you to take away precious moment from another human being. It is not alright to steal that time from another human being. Time is a gift from God Almighty and perhaps it is an indirect blasphemous act for you to disregard another human being's time. Whatever the reasons we are all humans and everyone deserves a bit of respect.

Please do show your appreciation to fellow humans by enforcing good time management.

For those who love though time is eternity!

Life is Fragile

2009-12-04T15:09:00.006+08:00

Dear God,

Thank you for all the blessings you have bestowed upon me. There was a time when I was young and foolish, my idea of a good life is material wealth. I shall get married, have a big house, a big car, buy all the latest LV bags and I'll be happy. Little did I know what you had in store for me.

Over the years you have shown me that you bestow blessings on me all the time even in time of sorrow. I have learnt that sorrow is the head while happiness is the tail of the coin named LIFE. Without sorrow we will never know happiness and vice-versa.

Please God in times of sorrow always give me the strength to rise above your test and face adversity with maturity and solid faith. Please bestow upon me wisdom to see the bigger picture of my true purpose in life.

Please God always remind me to have my feet on the ground at all times. Humility is indeed a virtue. Through humilty we learn what life really is. To smile at that cleaner and see him happy because we showed that we care and he does matter. To ask the concierge at the hotel whether he has eaten and he tells you that you are looking well. Ahh the joy of seeing smiles all around you. Knowing that you have impacted upon any person you come into contact with. Now that is living life. That is the true meaning of life.

It was never about I but about others. It was never about how much money I have made but how many lives I have inspired. It was never about how much I have in the bank but how I can help another human being through my small donations.

Thank you God for making me realise that life is very fragile. Each second counts and each encounter with another human being matters in this big world. So the next time you see a stranger just smile and the world will smile at you.

Syukur ya Allah. Amin.

The RM10 Story

2009-12-01T16:50:00.004+08:00

It was late evening and I was almost done with shopping at Isetan KLCC when a drenched young man approached me. He was very direct "Please can you lend me RM10 as I need the money for a taxi. I need to repair my punctured motorbike". I had to make a split second decision. He could be lying to me or he could be telling the truth. I decided to believe him and gave him the money. He requested for my address so that he could return the money, but I said "It's okay the money is yours". This incident took place a few years back, some 8 years ago.

Last year, again it is KLCC and I was paying for my parking. I inserted the parking ticket and to my horror I did not have any small change. I panicked and was feeling rather flustered not knowing which button to punch to get the ticket out again. Suddenly, a young man handed me an RM10 note. I duly paid for my parking and turned around to tell him to wait while I went inside Parkson to get small change. He insisted that I should just keep the change.

Moral of the story is that when you do things sincerely, the divine law of nature will ensure that in times of trouble you will be given help. Not necessarily from the person whom you have helped.

Happy Birthday Yang Fairuz

2009-11-09T00:01:00.001+08:00

Happy Birthday Yuz! So glad that my 10th birthday present has grown up to be a wonderful woman. Love you lots and lots! We go celebrate together.

The ISI Story

2009-10-22T00:14:00.007+08:00

"Once upon a time in a land known as Umat Kemudian Menyesal there were many researchers who were happy to just get their work published in ISI journals. They were happy to just get into international journals and even more excited to see their work cited in research books and papers. There were no payment but they were in a state of perpetual SS, syok sendiri. Who cared what they did, they were putting Umat Kemudian Menyesal on the world map. They were so proud of their contribution to the embodiment of knowledge.

Fast forward 15 years later and the state of Umat Kemudian Menyesal is no more like what it used to be. Everyday, the umats are writing long e-mails giving their opinions on what is right and what is wrong. Should it be ISI or Scopus. What is this animal Scopus? Yes umats were requesting to include publications into Scopus because they wanted to get their ranking up. And also because now they will be paid hard money to publish in Scopus. Suddenly within a short period of time lots of papers were published but alas Umat Kemudian Menyesal's ranking went down. How can that be after all that effort put in and they are ranked lower than last year. Ahhh it is okay it is only a technical glitch. All this improvement has only come about in the last few years. Ahhhh no wonder even though Umat has been around for 40 years, previous Umats did nothing but cleared the jungle and chased ghosts away.

Today some big Umat gets very angry when yang umats write in the Fax's e-mail. So much so there is fear to forward information on conferences. Is the silence deafening ahhh yes. But behind big Umat, small Umats talk and discuss why big Umat is so fierce. Well big Umat now only mixes with nagas.....small wonder big Umat becomes very fierce. Soon there will be fire spouting out of big Umat. Stay clear small umats.

So now we have to write in isi journals only. But the small umats are jealous of Umat Manis's achievements. Umat Manis's ranking has improved. Ahh they write in isi journals but they get RM 30,000 grants everytime a hand and a leg join them.

Umats want more money to buy chemicals. Ahhh but chemicals is not a niche so the Umats can only buy pen drives.

Some Umats get terrible scolding by naga for not working. After the water Umats worked very hard, still the water naga was angry. Umat is thinking, why are there so many angry big Umats. Ahh better to be a small umat and write e-mails. Soon e-mails will also be cited just like attendance at the robe party. "

Ahhh it was only a nightmare and I need to sleep. Tomorrow I need to write up my ISI journal paper, write a research proposal and meet up with my lovely students. I also need to register my students into CWCH1 conference using my ISI money. Life is so wonderful!

Good Bye Prof. Dr. Kamarudin Mat-Salleh

2009-10-11T15:30:00.004+08:00

Prof. Kamarudin Mat-Salleh in his element

Al Fatihah.
Two years ago I was having lunch with Prof. Dr. Kamarudin Mat-Saleh and a few friends when he was telling us about further tests he had to undergo at HUKM. Little did we know then that it was something very serious.

Pak Din as he is more affectionately known in UKM is so full of life and a very bubbly personality. He was always sharing his feelings and point of views on many mattters. I guess we were in the same boat more of less and were both striving to become good academicians.

Pak Din was into rafflesia. He would travel all over just to catch a flower about to bloom. He was passionate about his work. He was also passionate about photography.

My last trip with him was to Pekan Baru in August 2008. He was the official photographer taking pictures of us in action or inaction in some instances.

Today as I was paying my last respects to him his 5 year old son came out to greet us. Shaking hands and welcoming us, very forthcoming, and thoroughly reminded me of arwah. Felt a small tear sliding down my cheek.

Goodbye my friend Pak Din. We shall miss you. May you be placed among the chosen people. Rest in peace my friend. Amin.

The Journey

2009-09-09T18:00:00.003+08:00

Have you ever had the experience of travelling to a destination and arriving there without much thought. Yes, you suddenly realise that you are there and yet you could not remember the journey at all. Frightening isn't it to fanthom that you must have been thinking of so many other things that you lose focus about your journey.

Eearly last year I had to attend a workshop organised by the Ministry of Higher Education. I jotted down the date and place. So on the date and time I took a drive to Genting and went straight to Awana. I checked in only to be told that there was no room for me. Oh no......why is there no room for me. It just dawned on me that I could have the wrong date. I asked the reception if there was a workshop organised by Ministry of Higher Education. Lo and behold, there was none.

By now I was calling just about everyone I could get hold of. Finally, I managed to talk to Dato' Yusuf Kassim, then the Deputy Director General. He told me that he will only get to Colmar the next day! What Colmar...I got the wrong destination.

Hmm sure enough in my little diary it was clearly written Colmar Tropicale and for the life of me I must have imagined Genting and that stuck in my mind.

Continued my journey again and Colmar Tropicale was nice. Had a good get-together that night and made friends with many new academics from USM and UPNM.

Lesson learnt, always check and remain focus on your actions.

The Ultimate Selfless Sacrifice

2009-08-27T17:37:00.004+08:00

Wrote this piece about three years ago. So sad to hear about the passing of YBhg. Prof. Senator Datuk Dr. Ismail Salleh, ex-UKM lecturer. His death is a great loss to the nation. He stood tall despite being blind. He showed to the world that being blind is not a hindrance to greatness. What is most important is the mindset. If you say you can, you can! Al-Fatihah.

I have been called to pen my thoughts to paper after watching the programme in which Anita Sarawak interviewed Prof. Datuk Dr. Ismail. The most moving part was when Datuk related how his father was ridiculed and accused of wanting to relegate his duty as a father when he sent off his son to Johor Bharu to study in the school for the blind.

As the father to Ismail he had to face the wrath of the whole village and other family members in Kelantan where Ismail was born and raised. He had to make the tough decision because he knew deep down that this was what would be best for the blind boy who was bright and very much interested to learn. It must be heart wrenching for the father to hear Ismail waiting for the elder brother to come back from school each day to relate what had been learnt at school.

In our society where there are various levels of mindset. Stories such this is a good example to indicate that different mindset would interpret things different often not in the best of intentions. Moreover, good intentions are always misunderstood and misread. It is thus timely that the Prime Minister of Malaysia has stressed in the 9 Malaysia Plan this need to create that first class mentality.

I am sure Datuk Ismail has to thank his father for having the first class mentality way back in the 50’s and his success today can be attributed to his father's selfless sacrifice.

UKM oh UKM

2009-08-25T13:02:00.004+08:00

There was a time when the students were put first. But not today. Feeling absolutely frustrated with this system that is supposed to be really good named SPIN. It is suppose to be our communication line with our students. We are supposed to put all our lecture notes on it together with all important announcement.

The snag is the system does not cater to the needs of the KL students who are taking their first two year courses in the main campus of Bangi. This is week 8 and the problem had not been resolved. One quarter of the class is not getting the notes that they are supposed to get!

We talk of 1Malaysia, Rakyat diDahulukan dan Prestasi diUtamakan.

In university it should be read as Pelajar diDahulukan, Prestasi Universiti diUtamakan. Well it cetainly does not look that way today. Perhaps this is the difference between a developed mind and a developing mind. The developed mind would have ensured all administrative problems are attended to efficiently and quickly. In the developing mind the problem gets to be passed on from one person to the other till the buck stops at no one but goes round and round.

Breakfast at McDonalds

2009-08-24T09:56:00.001+08:00

Sharing what was forwarded to me by a friend.

BREAKFAST AT MCDONALDS

This is a good story and is true, please read it all the way through until
the end! (After the story, there are some very interesting facts!):
I am a mother of three (ages 14, 12, 3) and have recently completed my
college degree.
The last class I had to take was Sociology.
The teacher was absolutely inspiring with the qualities that I wish every
human being had been graced with.
Her last project of the term was called, 'Smile.'
The class was asked to go out and smile at three people and document their
reactions.
I am a very friendly person and always smile at everyone and say hello
anyway. So, I thought this would be a piece of cake, literally.
Soon after we were assigned the project, my husband, youngest son, and I
went out to McDonald's one crisp March morning.
It was just our way of sharing special playtime with our son.
We were standing in line, waiting to be served, when all of a sudden
everyone around us began to back away, and then
Even my husband did.
I did not move an inch... an overwhelming feeling of panic welled up inside
of me as I turned to see why they had moved.
As I turned around I smelled a horrible 'dirty body' smell, and there
standing behind me were two poor homeless men.
As I looked down at the short gentleman, close to me, he was 'smiling'
His beautiful sky blue eyes were full of God's Light as he searched for
acceptance.
He said, 'Good day' as he counted the few coins he had been clutching.
The second man fumbled with his hands as he stood behind his friend. I
realized the second man was mentally challenged and the blue-eyed gentleman
was his salvation.
I held my tears as I stood there with them.
The young lady at the counter asked him what they wanted.
He said, 'Coffee is all Miss' because that was all they could afford. (If
they wanted to sit in the restaurant and warm up, they had to buy something.
He just wanted to be warm).
Then I really felt it - the compulsion was so great I almost reached out and
embraced the little man with the blue eyes.
That is when I noticed all eyes in the
restaurant were set on me, judging
my every action.
I smiled and asked the young lady behind the counter to give me two more
breakfast meals on a separate tray.
I then walked around the corner to the table that the men had chosen as a
resting spot. I put the tray on the table and laid my hand on the blue-eyed
gentleman's cold hand.
He looked up at me, with tears in his eyes, and said, 'Thank you.'
I leaned over, began to pat his hand and said, 'I did not do this for you.
God is here working through me to give you hope.'
I started to cry as I walked away to join my husband and son. When I sat
down my husband smiled at me and said, 'That is why God gave you to me,
Honey, to give me hope..'
We held hands for a moment and at that time, we knew that only because of
the Grace that we had been given were we able to give.
We are not church goers, but we are believers.
That day showed me the pure Light of God's sweet love.
I returned to college, on the last evening of class, with this story in
hand.
I turned in 'my project' and the instructor read it.
Then she looked up at me and said, 'Can I share this?'
I slowly nodded as she got the attention of the class.
She began to read and that is when I knew that we as human beings and being
part of God share this need to heal people and to be healed.
In my own way I had touched the people at McDonald's, my son,the instructor,
and every soul that shared the classroom on the last night I spent as a
college student.
I graduated with one of the biggest lessons I would ever learn:
UNCONDITIONAL ACCEPTANCE.
Much love and compassion is sent to each and every person who may read this
and learn how to
LOVE PEOPLE AND USE THINGS -
NOT LOVE THINGS AND USE PEOPLE.
There is an Angel sent to watch over you.
In order for her to work, you must pass this on to the people you want
watched over..
An Angel wrote:
Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will
leave footprints in your heart
To handle yourself, use your head..
To handle others, use your heart.
God Gives every bird it's food, but He does not throw it into its nest.
Send it back, you'll see why!
A box of gold
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Send this to everyone you
consider a friend!

Goodbye Encik Abas

2009-08-17T11:35:00.003+08:00

You were always there in the mornings watering your plants and wishing "Good Morning" on our way to work. You were like the father to all of us in that row of six houses. Taking care of anything that was not quite right in the neighbourhood.

I guess we are creatures of comfort. Always taking without thinking sometimes. I guess I took your presence for granted. Yes you the father who will be there is the mornings to greet and wave me goodbye on my way to work. Yes you who will help to call the gardener to cut the grass in on our communal gargen.

Alas you went away last Friday night. You went without fuss.

I will miss you En Abas. Life is so fragile.

Al-Fatihah.

Insecure

2009-08-06T22:14:00.002+08:00

Suddenly I feel so insecure. The H1N1 saga is really causing me to feel alarmed that the pandemic might get out of hand. WHO projected that if the flu is not kept under control a third of the world population would have contracted the flu within two years. Now MMA is saying that in Malaysia, they are projecting a death tol of 28,000 people if the flu is unchecked.

I was discussing the matter with a friend and we reckoned that the way forward is through proper education. We need to educate the public to be more vigilant and to be more responsible. Keep strict personal hygiene and wear a mask in high risk areas. If you are unwell you should just quaratine yourself and stay at home.

As for me I'm increasing my dosage of daily vitamins. Besides the multivitamin I'm also taking an extra pil of vitamin C. You can't overdose yourself on soluble vitamin C.

Lets us pray that this pandemic is kept under control. Amin.

God Almighty

2009-07-30T15:54:00.005+08:00

No I 'm not about to become a preacher but rather share my inner most thoughts on Allah SWTH. I remembered when Haziman was young and he would ask me "Mama where is Allah? Can we see Him?" I was lucky because a colleague at work, Dr. Jariah Abdullah was more like a ustazah to all of us and would share with us how best to answer questions such as "Where is Allah?".

She would go like "We can see the effect of strong winds. Tornadoes and cyclones can demolish buildings and uproot trees. However, we can never see wind." How profound! Yes we can never see wind but we can feel it blowing onto our face when we are on the beach.

I guess we can't see Allah now but we sure can feel His presence anywhere we go, provided we are open to feeling and seeing Him.

I remembered being in Niagara Falls in the summer of 2005. The rush of the water fall and the beauty of the whole place. I felt so much alive and the sheer force of the water made me think of Allah. Subhanallah......alhamdullilah...Allahuakhbar. He granted me the blessing to witness His beautiful creation.

I felt so in awe and felt so small and insignificant.

Syukur I'm still alive.

A Leap in the Wrong Direction

2009-07-12T17:00:00.002+08:00

Please Prime Minister, please reconsider the decision on teaching of Mathematics and Science in English. I feel we need to ensure and equip our students with the skills to read the latest information on S&T which are mainly written in technical English.

My reason is that we are still a relatively small academic scientific community. To spend time on translating is a waste of time and energy. The time of academics should be utilised on researching and writing to journals.

Googled for the following chemistry terms (number of hits)

1.Form Five level : kovalen (20,900) vs covalent (2,600,00)

2.Year one university: ikatan koordinat (5,920) vs coordinate bond (3,020,000).

3. Third year university: kiub berpusat jasad (116) vs body-centred cube (67,600)

*No images were available for kuib berpusat jasad but for body-centred cube the numbers of images to depict it ...120,000.

I shall not even bother with terms in scientific papers.

So my dear Ministers please rethink the policy.

You are sacrificing the good students (they are also in the kampungs) at the expense of the weak and uninterested students. Give the good students a chance to continue in English!

Happy Birthday Tun Mahathir

2009-07-09T16:48:00.001+08:00

Happy Birthday Tun Mahathir! You are the best. Miss your wisdom and your far-sightedness. Hope to continue with your perjuangan yang belum selesai. Amin

Michael Jackson is Dead, May you RIP

2009-06-26T09:13:00.002+08:00

Taken from CNN website

By Todd Leopold CNN

(CNN) -- Michael Jackson, the show-stopping singer whose best-selling albums -- including "Off the Wall," "Thriller" and "Bad" -- and electrifying stage presence made him one of the most popular artists of all time, died Thursday, CNN has confirmed.

Michael Jackson, shown in 2008, was one of the biggest pop stars in history.

He was 50.
He collapsed at his residence in the Holmby Hills section of Los Angeles, California, about noon Pacific time, suffering cardiac arrest, according to brother Randy Jackson. He died at UCLA Medical Center.
Lt. Fred Corral of the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office said an autopsy would probably be done on the singer Friday, with results expected that afternoon. Watch crowds gather at Jackson's hospital »
"Michael Jackson made culture accept a person of color," the Rev. Al Sharpton said. "To say an 'icon' would only give these young people in Harlem a fraction of what he was. He was a historic figure that people will measure music and the industry by."
Jackson's blazing rise to stardom -- and later fall from grace -- is among the most startling of show business tales. The son of a steelworker, he rose to fame as the lead singer of the Jackson 5, a band he formed with his brothers in the late 1960s. By the late '70s, as a solo artist, he was topping the charts with cuts from "Off the Wall," including "Rock With You" and "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough." Watch Jackson perform at a 1988 concert »

In 1982, he released "Thriller," an album that eventually produced seven hit singles. An appearance the next year on a Motown Records 25th-anniversary special cemented his status as the biggest star in the country. Timeline: The life of Michael Jackson »
For the rest of the 1980s, they came no bigger. "Thriller's" follow-up, 1987's "Bad," sold almost as many copies. A new Jackson album -- a new Jackson appearance -- was a pop culture event. iReport: Share your memories of Michael Jackson
The pop music landscape was changing, however, opening up for rap, hip-hop and what came to be called "alternative" -- and Jackson was seen as out of step.
His next release, 1991's "Dangerous," debuted at No. 1 but "only" produced one top-ranking single -- "Black or White" -- and that song earned criticism for its inexplicably violent ending, in which Jackson was seen smashing car windows and clutching his crotch.
Don't Miss
In Depth: Michael Jackson
Explainer: Cardiac arrest vs. heart attack
And then "Dangerous" was knocked out of its No. 1 spot on the album charts by Nirvana's "Nevermind," an occurrence noted for its symbolism by rock critics.
After that, more attention was paid to Jackson's private life than his music career, which faltered. A 1995 two-CD greatest hits, "HIStory," sold relatively poorly, given the huge expense of Jackson's recording contract: about 7 million copies, according to Recording Industry of America certifications.
A 2001 album of new material, "Invincible," did even worse.
In 2005, he went to trial on child-molestation charges. He was acquitted.
In July 2008, after three years away from the spotlight, Jackson announced a series of concerts at London's O2 Arena as his "curtain call." Some of the shows, initially scheduled to begin in July, were eventually postponed until 2010.
Rise to stardom
Michael Jackson was born August 29, 1958, to Joe Jackson, a Gary, Indiana, steelworker, and his wife, Katherine. By the time he was 6, he had joined his brothers in a musical group organized by his father, and by the time he was 10, the group -- the Jackson 5 -- had been signed to Motown. Watch Michael Jackson's life in video
He made his first television appearance at age 11.
Jackson, a natural performer, soon became the group's front man. Music critic Langdon Winner, reviewing the group's first album, "Diana Ross Presents the Jackson 5," for Rolling Stone, praised Michael's versatile singing and added, "Who is this 'Diana Ross,' anyway?"
The group's first four singles -- "I Want You Back," "ABC," "The Love You Save" and "I'll Be There" -- went to No. 1 on the Billboard pop chart, the first time any group had pulled off that feat. There was even a Jackson 5 cartoon series on ABC.
In 1972, he hit No. 1 as a solo artist with the song "Ben."
The group's popularity waned as the '70s continued, and Michael eventually went solo full time. He played the Scarecrow in the 1978 movie version of "The Wiz," and released the album "Off the Wall" in 1979. Its success paved the way for "Thriller," which eventually became the best-selling album in history, with 50 million copies sold worldwide.
At that point, Michael Jackson became ubiquitous.
Seven of "Thriller's" nine cuts were released as singles; all made the Top Ten. The then-new cable channel MTV, criticized for its almost exclusively white playlist, finally started playing Jackson's videos. They aired incessantly, including a 14-minute minimovie of the title cut. ("Weird Al" Yankovic cemented his own stardom by lampooning Jackson's song "Beat It" with a letter-perfect parody video.)
On the Motown Records' 25th-anniversary special -- a May 1983 TV extravaganza with notable turns by the Temptations, the Four Tops and Smokey Robinson -- it was Michael Jackson who stopped the show.
Already he was the most popular musician in America, riding high with "Thriller." But something about his electrifying performance of "Billie Jean," complete with the patented backward dance moves, boosted his stardom to a new level.
People copied his Jheri-curled hair and single-gloved, zippered-jacket look. Showbiz veterans such as Fred Astaire praised his chops. He posed for photos with Ronald and Nancy Reagan at the White House. Paul McCartney teamed with him on three duets, two of which -- "The Girl Is Mine" and "Say Say Say" -- became top five hits. Jackson became a Pepsi spokesman, and when his hair caught fire while making a commercial, it was worldwide news.
It all happened very fast -- within a couple years of the Motown special. But even at the time of the "Motown 25" moonwalk, fame was old hat to Michael Jackson. He hadn't even turned 25 himself, but he'd been a star for more than half his life. He was given the nickname the "King of Pop" -- a spin on Elvis Presley's status as "the King of Rock 'n' Roll" -- and few questioned the moniker.

Relentless attention
But, as the showbiz saying has it, when you're on top of the world, there's nowhere to go but down. The relentless attention given Jackson started focusing as much on his eccentricities -- some real, some rumored -- as his music.
As the Web site Allmusic.com notes, he was rumored to sleep in a hyperbaric chamber and to have purchased the bones of John Merrick, the "Elephant Man." (Neither was true.) He did have a pet chimpanzee, Bubbles; underwent a series of increasingly drastic plastic surgeries; established an estate, Neverland, filled with zoo animals and amusement park rides; and managed to purchase the Beatles catalog from under Paul McCartney's nose, which displeased the ex-Beatle immensely.

In 1990s and 2000s, Jackson found himself pasted across the media for his short-lived marriages, the first to Elvis Presley's daughter, Lisa Marie; his 2002 claim that then Sony Records head Tommy Mottola was racist; his behavior and statements during a 2003 interview with British journalist Martin Bashir done for a documentary called "Living With Michael Jackson;" his changing physical appearance; and, above all, the accusations that he sexually molested young boys at Neverland.

The first such accusation, in 1993, resulted in a settlement to the 13-year-old accuser (rumored to be as high as $20 million), though no criminal charges were filed, Allmusic.com notes.
He also fell deeply in debt and was forced to sell some of his assets. Neverland was one of many holdings that went on the block. However, an auction of material from Neverland, scheduled for April, was called off and all items returned to Jackson.

Interest in Jackson never faded, however, even if some of it was prurient. In 2008, when he announced 10 comeback shows in London, beginning in July 2009, the story made worldwide news. The number of concerts was later increased to 50.

Seventy-five thousand tickets sold in four hours when they went on sale in March.
However, when the shows were postponed until 2010, rumors swept the Internet that Jackson was not physically prepared and possibly suffering from skin cancer.

At the time, the president and CEO of AEG Live, Randy Phillips, said, "He's as healthy as can be -- no health problems whatsover."

Jackson held open auditions for dancers in April in Los Angeles.
He is survived by his three children, Prince Michael I, Paris and Prince Michael II.

Making a Difference

2009-06-23T22:01:00.010+08:00

The midyear personal review is coming soon. It is on the 30 of June when I will reflect on what I have done in the past 6 months. Have I made a difference? Or have I just picked on low lying fruits and entered into "you & me" type of projects

January: Went off to Yogyakarta for a conference. Was requested by Insitut Penyelidikan Pengajian Tinggi Negara to be involved in the "International Students Project". Read the Secret. Organised the Majlis Makan Malam FST, Malam Satu Darjat.

February: Appeared on Awani with Datuk Kadir Jasin. Went off to Toronto to network with Walkerton Clean Water Center and UNU-INWEH.

March: Haziman was best biology student for 2009. Enjoyed students' "Artificial Blood" presentations. That made a difference to them acquiring a belief in themselves. How I wish people can see how talented they are. Received a very tempting proposal from another university. I believe that my intuition in saying no is the right decision. I love UKM because I belive in the "semangat kebangsaan

April: I was extremely busy arranging for Prof. Jim Simpson's visit and also arranging for the Inorganic Writing Workshop. Was so overwhelmed when Prof. Ward Robinson also turned up to help out in the writing workshop. Wow.....two world renowned crystallographers all the way from New Zealand in one workshop. I love looking at how the scientists from New Zealand work together. They don't compete but complement each other. I guess I learned a lot during Jim's stint in UKM. I also feel that Jim will be our bridge bewteen UKM and Otago. Saw me getting ready for ALIR's collaboration with GIST take off in the form a joint seminar. Prof, Rujhan from KPT wants me to head a project. UPM invited me to talk on "Profiling UPM". Good experience :)

May: Went visiting Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology and also Seoul National University. So happy that we are beginning something that will go on for years to come insyAllah. Glad that Seoul National University is returning the visit by coming to UKM next month. Personally having studied in Britain for 8 years has given me a good footing on how best to be diplomatic. At the international level, nothing beats being kind and open. Strangers pick up the positive aura and after having read the Secret I know now that many peopele are using this technique. Hmm Tan Sri Salleh was good at this power of the postive mind. Thanks Tan Sri for the tip.

June: Haziman's 17th birthday! UKM-ITB Joint Chemistry Seminar. UKM gave out wang ganjaran for those who has published in ISI journals and I got some RMs ! Got appointed as reviewer for Jounal of Applied Organometallic Chemistry by the renowned Prof. Marcel Gielen. I'm so humbled and thrilled to bits by such an honour. I will try and do my job well insyAallah.

My fervent wish is for Haziman to go for that high fruits too. As a mother I hope I'm making a big difference in his life

As a chemistry mother to all my postdocs, PhD and master students. Thank you very much for your support. For all the new PhD students, we shall begin very hard work soon.

Back to my question "Have I made a difference". Yes syukur alhamdullilah because I can feel it deep in my bones. I think I have been pushing myself hard always reaching up for those fruits high up instead of those safer low lying fruits.

Amin.

1000 ducks

2009-06-21T22:40:00.004+08:00

How much it would take to support an orphanage in Aceh? It takes 1000 ducks. The person running the orphanage does not want people to give money continously but rather give them money to buy ducks. For more information please go to:

http://drbubbles.blogspot.com/

Today I was in KLCC to buy food and it was truly serendipitous that someone called my name out "Madam Curi?". I was surprised to see this guy who introduced himself as Dr. Bubbles. He was telling me all about this 1000 ducks project.

Thanks Dr. Bubbles for helping the kids out . Keep up the good work.

Yes folks if you are interested to make a difference to the lives of these orphans please get in touch with Dr. Bubbles or e-mail me at yfarina@gmail.com.

UKM links up with Seoul National University (SNU)

2009-06-19T15:08:00.006+08:00

Call it serendipity that we should should first meet in Bandung in October 2008. Institut Teknologi Bandung had organised the The Second International Conference on Mathematics and Natural Sciences (ICMNS) 2008. I was invited as one of the plenary speakers and it was there that I met other speakers too the likes of Prof. Kim and the energetic Prof. Eggleton. After the conference we did exchanged cards and Prof. Kim invited me to visit him if I was in Seoul, Korea.

May this year saw us travelling to Gwangju and also to Seoul. I remembered Prof. Kim and decided to make contact again. So on the 21st May 2009 saw us heading towards Seoul National University to visit the College of Engineering and also to visit Prof. Kim's Atomic Image Projection Electron-Beam Lithography (AIPEL) instrument.

The research by Prof. Ki-Bum Kim is simply awesome. He has innovated the transmission electron microscope to make nanoscale patterns. This new technique given the name short name of AIPEL is pushing the boundaries of science and is a potential Nobel Laureate prize winning project.

Enjoy the pictures and be prepared to be inspired.

From left: Madam Curi and Prof. Ki-Bum Kim

Madam Curi with AIPEL

What it means

What AIPEL can do

Group picture in Prof. Kim's room

Group picture with Dean of Engineering

Madam Curi admiring all the high impact journals

Seoul National University aims to be world class by 2020!

Happy Birthday Muhammad Haziman

2009-06-18T00:01:00.000+08:00

He cried and wailed the minute the doctor yanked him out of my abdomen. I was operated on but with modern technology I was conscious and could hear what the surgeon was saying. Nurse check that his urinary track is functioning. The nurse sweetly replied "Should be alright doctor, he just peed on me!"

Muhammad Haziman's arrival into this world has been awaited with much anticipation. I was 29 and he completed my life. He was the cutest and longest baby in the nursery.

Now my baby is quickly turning into a young man. He has his own mind and perpetually alternates between being a young man and my baby.

Happy Birthday my dear young son. Hope you will enjoy your 17th birthday. All the best with the examination. Remember that your Mama will always be here to love and cheer you on.

You will always be my baby. Love you always.

Food Galore in Penang

2009-06-16T21:08:00.004+08:00

Mention Penang and my mouth will begin to salivate as my brain conjures up images of finger lincking Minah ayam goreng, nasi kandar, pulut panggang, laksa Penang, rojak buah, nasi dalca, nasi briyani, ice kacang...and the list continues. Yes Penang certainly lives up the the label of being a food heaven.

Everytime we go back to Penang it will be one long list of places we must eat at. One of them is of course my late grandfather's restaurant better known as Minah Restaurant. Minah has become like a legacy to the Gelugor region and I remembered when young we were frequented by Ministers, royalties and famous singers and actors. Minah began just before Merdeka and is till thriving till today. The must have at Minah is the ayam goreng with the special sauce. Yummy!

Ayam goreng Minah

Penang is wo well known for its nasi kandar and we always hear of Kayu and Line-clear. However, little known to outsiders is the Nasi Kandar Kg. Melayu at Ayer Itam. This place is just filled to the brim with people. The food is piping hot and cooked in small batches to ensure freshness. It is just the most original nasi kandar to me. The kari ikan is just so nice. Your hands will smell for the next three days :) Yes that would be the key performance index of a good nasi kandar.

Just infront of the shop in Ayer Itam

Business is good as they have expanded to two shop lots

Marketing and branding Ayer Itam style

The customers

The happy Mamak expertly packing the curry

The happy customers.

So the next time you are in Penang do drop by Minah Restaurant in Gelugor and for a nasi kandar treat look for the Ayer Itam Kg. Melayu flats. You will find the nasi kandar.

You will not be disappointed!

You Matter

2009-06-15T19:38:00.001+08:00

You Matter by Seth Godin

When you love the work you do and the people you do it with, you matter.

When you are so gracious and generous and aware that you think of other people before yourself, you matter.

When you leave the world a better place than you found it, you matter.

When you continue to raise the bar on what you do and how you do it, you matter.

When you teach and forgive and teach more before you rush to judge and demean, you matter.

When you touch the people in your life through your actions (and your words), you matter.

When kids grow up wanting to be you, you matter.

When you see the world as it is, but insist on making it more like it could be, you matter.

When you inspire a Nobel prize winner or a slum dweller, you matter.

When the room brightens when you walk in, you matter.And when the legacy you leave behind lasts for hours, days or a lifetime, you matter.

-Seth Godin.

Adam Lambert Rocks

2009-06-12T14:31:00.005+08:00

This article appeared in Newsweek.

Why Cougars Crave "Idol" Runner-Up Adam Lambert

By Joan Raymond

Let's talk images. A snake. A butterfly. A young man with his shirt unbuttoned to his waist, pouting at the camera. Lots of chest stubble. Alone, each image is rather boring. Put them together, and what you have is a hotter-than-Johnny Depp new Rolling Stone cover of American Idol runner-up Adam Lambert. The 27-year-old dude who made guyliner fashionable again gave an interview to the magazine confirming—big surprise—that he's gay. What's really surprising: I can't stop thinking about him. And neither can any of my cougar-aged friends.

We love Adam, truly, madly, deeply, in a kind of weirdly Mrs. Robinson sexual way. And the reason doesn't just have to do with our past lives as professional groupies. It also has something to do with biology.Just a few short months ago, most of my female friends and I were clueless about Adam Lambert. We're busy, professional women, some of us with demanding families and children, all of us with demanding jobs. We never spent our Tuesday nights in front of the TV. Yet this year, for slightly more than two months, phone calls went unanswered and any type of social or familial interactions were put on hold on so we could plop ourselves in front of our sets at 8 p.m. to watch American Idol, the No. 1 rated show on TV, which none of us had ever bothered with before. It started innocently enough: A friend, waylaid by a flu bug, was channel-surfing from the comfort of her couch one Tuesday evening and saw a bejeweled young thing singing a scorching rendition of Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire." She left us phone messages and tweets, saying, and I quote, "ohmygawdyouhavetoseethisemoglambowielovechildonAmericanIdol." We went, "Huh," but we tuned in the following week. And then we were gone. My

We became Glamberts, besotted with the leather and rhinestones, the perfectly smudgy guyliner, the emo coal-colored coif and, oh, yeah, the preternatural vocal range. When we got together, we no longer talked about good books, North Korea or the recession. We talked about all things Lambert. We became the thing that we normally despise: a cougar court that fell into a gentle loin lust with a man young enough to be our son. And a gay one, to boot.

In terms of biology, Adam Lambert's attractiveness is kind of bizarre. Some research shows that women like square jaws and deep brows—iconic masculine traits—when they're looking for a fling. But we like more feminine traits when we're looking for The One, the long-term mate. Lambert has a little bit of both going on for him, as anyone who saw his version of Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love" can attest. When we aren't laughing at our patheticness (because, let's get real, even if Lambert were straight or gave in to some bi-curiosity, he would never be interested in us), we are actually ruminative enough to wonder what it is about this fellow that turned us into such loons. One thing we know for sure is that we are not alone. There are thousands of women of a certain age out there who are just one Adam Lambert Google search away from crashing their computers.

The good news is that people who know about these things think that our little Lambert love-fest is downright mentally healthy. "I think more women would be happier if they channeled their inner 14-year-old girls once in a while," says sex therapist Laura Berman, director of the Berman Center in Chicago. She's always been fascinated with the Clay Aiken phenomenon, that of girls going crazy for a seemingly sweet, innocent-looking boy-man (Aiken is now, like Lambert, out and proud). While Aiken may be the ultimate "safe zone," Lambert, she believes, somehow managed to be "hardcore, crazy, humble, adorable, charismatic, sweet and mind-blowingly talented," all in one package. "He's a study in contrasts, and the gay thing doesn't matter," she says. "Anyone who can get women to talk, giggle and get their mojo back is fine by me. Enjoy the ride."Indeed we will. But it still begs the question exactly why our mojo leaned more toward Lambert than toward cute-as-a-button Kris Allen, the eventual winner of the competition, a young man whom Lambert admitted to having a little crush on.

Part of the Lambert allure is that some women find his onstage lack of inhibition a powerful aphrodisiac. According to psychoanalyst Dr. Gail Saltz, we all have a little touch of the voyeur inside of us, but it's often repressed. Then along comes Lambert, and those voyeuristic floodgates open. "Here's a guy who is a maximum exhibitionist, molten hot, can sing anything and is screaming, 'Look at me,' and for some women, that's an incredible turn-on," says Saltz, author of The Ripple Effect: How Better Sex Can Lead to a Better Life.

It may also go back to our childhood, as all things psychoanalytic seem to do. According to Saltz, buried deep inside all of us is the childhood desire to be able to have everything and anything, whenever you want. So part of our fascination with Mr. Lambert is that we may want to be like him. "[Lambert] is the poster child for having it all," says Saltz, associate professor of psychiatry at the New York Presbyterian Hospital Weill-Cornell School of Medicine. "Men want him, women want him, and that ambiguity is as hot as hell." But my friends and I also think it may be something more.

We were once slam-dancing to the beat of The Clash and The Sex Pistols. We weren't the girls who liked The Eagles, we liked The Buzzcocks. But today, our lives are dictated by the confines of appropriateness. So maybe we just want to be like Lambert; hey, even his wardrobe is better than mine. For other women of a certain age out there who are having little Lambert crushes of their own, sex therapist Wendy Maltz, founder of healthysex.com, suggests that we think about what's going on with our relationships in our lives. For her book, Private Thoughts: Exploring the Power of Women's Sexual Fantasies, Maltz interviewed scores of women to determine where sexual fantasies come from and what you can do about them. Maltz says that our connection with Lambert may be the wake-up call we need to be more playful, to have more fun and yes, to try to become a little more brave and confident.

"There's something very wonderful about someone who can say, 'Accept me or don't accept me,'" Maltz says. "We tend to lose that as we get older." So how's this for bravery? I'm actually thinking about going to the Idol tour this year. I might be one of the only fans over the age of … ummmm, 40-something, but I bet I can still shriek louder than any of Adam's tween groupies.

Whatever, Adam rocks .....can't wait to buy his album.

The Wedding

2009-06-08T07:09:00.003+08:00

Last night we attended Tan Sri Salleh's son's wedding at Dewan Sivik Petaling Jaya. Seated at our (Haziman and I) table were Zie, Lily, Zaini, Dato' Ibrahim Komoo, June and Mac. It has been awhile since we were together. It was a beautiful wedding and you can feel the warmth and love all around. Obviously Tan Sri Salleh still has the golden touch in ensuring a perfect event.

The bride and bridegroom were resplendent in their respective outfits. The hall was beautifully decorated. The music was good and the singing were by friends and family members. Food by Mak Tim was tasty.

More importantly the hall was packed with people. I guess at times like this we will know whether people appreciate us for what we are rather than for what post we hold. It was very heart warming indeed when we learnt that an old school friend who is wheel-chair bound still took the trouble to come. Wow that says a lot about a person's character.

At our table we were asking the million dollar question. Is Tan Sri Salleh going to sing? We sure miss his singing and his style of leadership. We were not to be disapppointed as he sang a song for his new daughter-in-law on behalf of his son. Tan Sri' Salleh still could hit those notes when he did a rendition of Andy William's "Speak Softly Love". We ooohed and ahhed....

To Johan (Jojo) and Yusrina, congratulations and good luck. May you be blessed with happiness and live happily ever after.

The UKM-GIST Collaboration Moves Forward

2009-05-25T12:19:00.009+08:00

In a truly globalised world the power of networking must never be underestimated. When the then Director of the International Environment Research Center (IERC) of Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Prof. Young. J. Kim visited Tan Sri Dr. Mohamed Salleh Mohamed Yasin, Director of United Nations University-International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH), we in the Centre for Water Research and Analysis (ALIR) were informed of the visit. Upon foresight we sought the possibility of hosting Prof. Kim when he had finished the meeting with Tan Sri Salleh. Tan Sri Salleh as usual of him, graciously obliged with our request. Thus ALIR hosted Prof. Kim on the afternoon of 16 January 2009 and that was how UKM began the initiatives to collaborate with GIST.

Among the things we agreed upon was the hosting of The 1st GIST-UKM Joint Symposium on Green Technologies. After a period of discussion over e-mails we signed a Letter of Intent to work together especially on graduate students' exchange programme, dual degree programme and research collaborations. Barely 5 months later, saw us travelling to Gwangju for the 1st GIST-UKM Joint Symposium on Green Technologies.

The Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology is truly remarkable as it was only established 15 years ago. However, after over a short period of time they have produced close to 400 PhD holders. The difference with GIST compared to other Korean universities is that it conducts its courses in English. With a tagline of "GIST is a Proud Creator of Future Science and Technology", the faculties have certainly lived up to the tagline.

We visited their Advanced Photonics Research Institute (APRI) which hosts the ultrashort quantum beam facilities (UQBF). By the year's end APRI will be able to generate very short and highly intense X-rays. We have heard of laser (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation) in the infrared and ultraviolet regions but at APRI they will be able to generate X-ray laser beam! With normal X-rays we are only able to study materials in the solid state. With X-ray laser (due to the very short wavelength) the studies may be carried out in real-time and in solution. Yes there are so many biological reactions that may be studied and understood using X-ray laser. The way I see it, GIST through APRI is planting the seeds for future Nobel Laureates.

We were also very fortunate to be taken on a tour of the Heeger Center for Advanced Materials. The Heeger institute is a collaboration between GIST and Prof. Alan J. Heeger, the Nobel Laureate for Chemistry in 2000. This institute is currently studying new pliable materials for application as solar cells. Another possible Nobel Laureate potential.

Of course it was all not just work. We were feted to a banquet of Korean cuisine in a very warm and wonderful ambience. President of GIST, Prof. Jung-Ho Sonu was our host and was very gracious. I discovered that Prof. Sonu is also a very accomplished photographer and will be holding his own exhibition in Seoul in the not too distant future.

Thank you very much to everyone who made our stay in Gwangju a very wonderful experience. We shall be back with graduate students and researchers.

Stories on the symposium will be in the next posting!

The UKM delegates with the GIST faculties
Prof. Sonu receiving a gift from Prof. Rahmah Mohamed, UKM's Deputy VC for Research and Innovation

Madam Curi listening and also admiring the food presentation

Prof. Heechul Choi, GIST Director of International Relations (left) with Madam Curi.

From left: Prof. Wang, Dr. Norela, Prof. Young J. Kim, Prof. Salmijah and Madam Curi. Incidentally Prof. Young J. Kim is currently the new Deputy-President of GIST

From left: Prof. Lee, Madam Curi and Prof. Young J. Kim

Our very shy postgraduate student, Kim Geunjin at the Heeger Center for Advanced Material manipulating the preparation of air-sentive materials in the glove -box

Our not too shy PhD student, Kang Hong Kyu

Group photograph

The GIST campus

In front of the Samsung sponsored building. From left: Prof. Salmijah, Prof. Pauzi and Madam Curi

At APRI, from left: Prof. Suk, Madam Curi, Prof. Pauzi, Prof. Musa, Dr. Norela, Prof. Rahmah and Prof. Salmijah

Madam Curi wishing she was a PhD student at GIST

UKM is 39

2009-05-17T17:53:00.005+08:00

The idea of establishing a national university was first thought of as far back as the early 1920's. The initial proposition was prepared by Abd. Kadir Adabi based on the ideas of Zaa'ba. They sought for the establishment of a university that could meet the educational needs of the Malays and the development of their language. Through the 30's, the idea grew, but secretly cherished in the hearts of the Malays, especially during the time of strong colonial domination. The Malaysian education system prior to independence in 1957 was based on the British system as schools were segregated into various categories depending on the medium of instruction utilized. Majority of the English speaking schools were localized in towns while the Malay medium schools were found in the villages. Upon completion of their studies the students who went to Malay schools had no university to go to and thus many students in the villages ended their education after secondary school.

However, the idea for a national university was again openly and actively pursued during the 40's and the 50's when the Federation of the Union of Malay Teachers of the Peninsula agitated for the placement of the Malay Language in the mainstream activities of the country, and raise the standard of the Malay schools so that their student could further their studies at tertiary level.
When Malaysia gained her independence in 1957 The Education Ordinance was passed by parliament. The main thrust of the new education policy was to create a single national education system with the final aim of using Bahasa Melayu the national language as the main medium of instruction. The overriding factor was that the national language will be the catalyst for forging national unity.
In the 60's, the demands for a national university were repeated and discussions were reopened. A group of Malay intellectuals gathered to discuss ideas of a national university, not only in the context of the Malay needs, but also of a Malaysian nation. Their ideas were well received by all. Thus, from then on, no force could stop the advancement of the people's demands. In 1969, a Sponsoring Committee was set up to prepare and publish a report recommending the establishment of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. There was even a drive to collect money all over the country to expedite the launching of the new national university. The report formed the basis of the University. Much of its recommendations were adopted as guidelines in the official establishment of the University.
Finally Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM as it is popularly known) was formally established on 18 May 1970. UKM is the third university in Malaysia, but the first to use Bahasa Melayu, the national language, as the medium of instruction. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia begun with just 192 students, 78 lecturers and three faculties. The early pioneers were placed in a temporary campus in Jalan Pantai. Over the years the University has grown in strength to become an institution of higher learning synonymous with quality education. UKM is celebrating her 39th anniversary this year. Thus, the establishment of the University was indeed an historical event. It is truly a people's university built by the people of Malaysia for the people of Malaysia.
From such humble beginnings who would have thought that UKM can become the top 200 university in the world and just a few days ago top 51 in Asia. UKM has made itself prominent at the international level. This transformation did not happen overnight but took place from the very minute this national university was formed. Thank you everyone who has made this transformatian happen. I still remembered during one convocation when the late Tun Abdullah Salleh was informed that UKM has made it into the top 100 science university in the world, he cried tears of joy. I was so taken aback by his response and the incident made me understand how hard the pioneers of the university must have fought to establish UKM.

To all the previous Chancellors, Pro-Chancellors, Vice-Chancellors, Deputy Vice-Chancellors, Professors, academic staff, adminisitrative staff, support staff and most importantly the students, thank you very much for your contribution in transforming UKM. UKM will not be 'The National University with an International Reach' without your continuous support and blessings.

Happy 39th Birthday UKM!

The Otago Link

2009-05-11T21:50:00.005+08:00

Ever since UKM has been bestowed with the research university status, we have been blessed with monetary capabilities to further enhance research activities. It was indeed a humbling experience for me to host Prof. Dr. Jim Simpson from the University of Otago from the 23 April till 4 May 09. Prof. Simpson was the main resource person for the the Inorganic Chemistry writing workshop. The workshop was held in FST's computer laboratory. Indeed why a computer laboratory for a writing workshop? The simple answer would be because many inorganic chemistry papers would require the publishing of crystal sructures which inadvertently involves the submission of a special file called the cif file to the Cambridge Crystallographic Database Centre. The preparation of the cif file is the key to publications in high impact journals such as Inorganic Chemistry.

We were also honoured with the presence of Prof. Ward Robinson from University of Canterbury, currently attached to Universiti Malaya. It was a highly interactive workshop as we learnt more about how to publish a good paper from not just one but two world renowned crystallographers.

I could not help feel that serendipity brought the two professors from New Zealand together for the workshop. Many years ago it was also the two professors who gave their input when we were purchasing a diffractometer.

Prof. Simpson's stint in UKM has further enhanced the link between UKM and Otago. My memories of beautiful and pristine Dunedin is still fresh in my mind even though it has been a year since I was there for my sabbatical.

This special link will definitely flourish over the years.

Hamid and Jim at Kampachi

Madam Curi and Prof. Ibrahim Baba during the dinner with Jim and Hamid at Kampachi

The participants engrossed with Prof. Simpson's lecture

Jim Simpson in action!

We were enthralled

Our young Associate Professor Dr. Mohammad Kassim

Prof. Robinson with his wife

FST's welcoming dinner

Thank you Prof. Simpson for taking time off from your hectic schedule to share your knowledge with us in UKM. Hopefully we can do this again.

Papa turns 75!

2009-04-27T22:24:00.006+08:00

Dear Papa celebrated his 75th birthday on the 24th of April 2009. My sisters and I decided to throw him a birthday party and the real surprise was that we invited his old friends too from his Kirby days and also from UIA. So last Sunday the 26th April saw all us descending upon Idah and Alwi's place for the celebration.

It was so heart warming to see old friends again not just them but their children too. It must be close to 20 years ago when I last met Lynette, Uncle Victor's daughter. So in a way the gathering was not just fun for Papa and his friends but for us family members too. We must have talked and talked over very important matters such as who will attending the Black Dog Bone concert. Sapa yang tak nak pi jangan dok bising okay.

The daughters so happy to be together and celebrating Papa turning 75. Semoga dimurahkan lagi rezeki. Pic courtesy of Ebi's FB.

Papa had to overcome the usual candle blowers.

Yes I had a lot of volunteers to take the candle out.

Poor Idah with her patch from her fall

The happy jhoras as usual. Pic courtesy of Ebi's FB.

We were very honoured with Prof. Jim Simpson's presence. Pic courtesy of Ebi's FB.

Prof. Jim Simpson and Papa

To all the lovely people that made the celebration a success we wish to say a big thank you. All of us enjoyed your company. Looks like the next year's celebration got to be in New Zealand.

Dato' Saifuddin Abdullah visits UKM

2009-04-18T16:58:00.007+08:00

When Dato' Saifuddin Abdullah was named Deputy Minister in the the Ministry for Higher Education I was one of those people that thought good, the Prime Minister got the right person to support Dato Seri Khaled Nordin. We have a strategic plan that is currently being implemented and this is one ministry where you need to get the professors and academics to work with the ministry not for the ministry. Yes folks, academics are a very eccentric lot and each one of them is a leader in their own field. Try telling a Professor or a junior lecturer for that matter that their research is not important. Yes you will get a revolt not just from the person concerned but from the rest of the academics too.

Dato' Saifuddin comes across as someone who is very smart and his easy mannerisms has won many hearts yesterday afternoon. He is willing to listen but does not promise you the moon. It is only his fourth day in office and he has covered a few universities. I am rather jealous of Universiti Putra Malaysia as that was his first stop. Perhaps UPM is the 'in' university.

Good luck Dato' Saifuddin and we the warga of UKM will certainly support your endeavours. Hope you will come again and hold discussions with academics.

Malaysia as the centre of excellence for education.

Dato' Saifuddin addressing the crowd in UKM's Senate Room

From left; Dato' Prof. Dr. Mohamad Razak (DVC for Students' and Alumni Affair), Dato' Saifuddin Abdullah and Madam Curi

Ahh the eating session in Banquet Hall.

I must admit that I sure miss attending official functions in UKM. Yesterday was nice as I met old friends again. The feel good factor is returning to UKM again. Amin.

Dato Saifuddin Abdullah meets the students

2009-04-15T12:08:00.004+08:00

Picture courtesy of Dato' Saifuddin's album on facebook

Congratulations Dato Saifuddin Abdullah on your appointment as Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Higher Education. It has only been 6 days since your appointment and you are on the ground interacting with the students. From the looks of it not just interacting but listening and taking notes too. Certainly this new way of leadership will win many hearts. Great start and keep up the good work.

Hopefully you will also interact with us lecturers!

The Secret to a Healthy Heart

2009-04-04T21:42:00.004+08:00

If your heart has been pierced so deep is there any chance for you to survive. An affirmative "Yes!" No matter how damaged your heart is the human mind is so strong that it overrides the pain and rekindles happy memories and before you know it you are well on the road of recovery. The human body is built perfect by God Almighty but not our mind (heart). We are weak creatures very open to desires of the heart or is it the mind?

No wonder the Quran is given to us to ensure we have a manual on what it takes to ensure that we can sustain a healthy heart. If you feel pain by happenings around you then you are lucky because Allah has given His blessings that you can still see what is wrong and thus you may redeem yourself accordingly.

Imagine if you don't feel any guilt or do not feel for people you have wronged. Perhaps God had turned your heart to stone and you are blind to the sufferings you have caused to people around you. If that were the case then you would be blind to so many things. You would live a life filled with people who will say things you want to hear and see only beautiful screensavers. Even when the masses are communicating and giving you clear signals you would still be blind. You are oblivious to clear messages conveyed to you because your mind is so intoxicated with power.

Let us pray to Allah that he protect us from turning our heart to stone. When you stop feeling you are beyond redemption. Worse still you might be at the mercy of silent curses hurled at you.

So have a heart and keep your heart healthy. InsyAllah.

Haziman's Speech Day

2009-03-29T20:53:00.005+08:00

Yesterday was Haziman's Speech Day and we were invited to attend the event as Haziman was receiving a prize. Yesterday he received a prize for being the best Form 4 student for biology.

I see a difference in Haziman ever since he entered Form 4. Muhammad Haziman is more focussed and is more competitive. He does not need any reminders to finish his homework a far cry from this Standard 4 days. I must thank his teachers in school who are always encouraging him. We are also very grateful to his Kumon teacher for instilling this new found confidence in him. As we were leaving for the event Haziman reminded me not to give him a standing ovation and I replied jokingly "Mama has even prepared a placard for you!".

My son is fast growing into a young man. At times he is like a young adult and there are times when I see him still as my baby. I guess mothers will always see their child as their baby.

Muhammad Haziman please remember to work hard no matter what. Mama and YaYan will be praying hard for you. We love you very much and Mama is very proud of your achievements.

Haziman with his friends at school

The proud mother and her son

Haziman on his mother's insistence holding up his plaque

Haziman with his teachers

The Engagement

2009-03-23T18:00:00.002+08:00

Last Friday was the strangest day I had in the last two years. I was about to leave for work when I received a call from a senior university official from a very prominent university. I was so humbled when the person requested for a meeting that morning and came to UKM to see me. The University wants me to help them out and was offering me a better post. This was one "engagement" that has been made very attractive. They are offering me the icing and the cake too. I must say that I'm very tempted to taste and eat the cake. Gosh it is so alluring and seductive. Wish me luck that I make the correct decision.

Cuti-Cuti Sekolah Shopping

2009-03-17T23:01:00.008+08:00

The Pink Kazzets sure knows how to dress all in pink. From left; Maria Izabelle Merican, Dania Imanina Kamarul Bahrin and Yang Dina Khistina Kamarul Bahrin

Yang Dina Khistina loves dressing up

Mama Kazzets with her brood

Madam Curi entertaining Danial Farhan Kamarul Bahrin

Mummy and son have gleaming teeth

Future gymnasts

During my young days I looked forward to the school holidays. It meant we could either be spending them in Penang or Kuala Lumpur. It did not matter because it was time for me and my sisters to enjoy ourselves. If we were in KL Mama Yah (my aunt) would include a shopping spree session at the coolest place then, Globe Silk Store. We would then proceed to buy shoes from Central Shoes. It was much later that we would shop at Ampang Park. Then getting a RM 15 dress was considered a bit extravagant.

Kids these days though grow up on designer goods. I guess we were not able to have them when we were young that we splurge it on our children. I'm lucky because I have two nieces to spoil. It is always a pleasure to go shopping with Dina and Dania. We had fun trying out different outfits. Dina is so funny with her dream of shopping with her future husband.

I used to dream the same things. Out shopping with my kids and husband many, many years ago.

But my dream has turned out to be better. It is so nice to just go into a shop and buy that bag you truly wanted. No guilt. My sisters and my nieces will cheer me on and tell me that I deserve it after all that hard work.

I guess I have been a practitioner of retail therapy ever since I was 10. This my dear people is the true confession of a shopaholic.

ALIR Welcomes Delegates from United Nations University- International Network on Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH)

2009-03-13T13:59:00.014+08:00

Madam Curi presenting the UKM memento to Dr. Zafar Adeel (right), Director of UNU-INWEH during her visit on 24 February 2009

It was unthinkable that we (Wan Farhiyah and I) undertook the task to visit water related institutions in Canada in February 2009 when temperatures would be below zero degrees C. However, due to financial year committment by UKM we had to endure the cold.

We were so happy when Dr. Zafar Adeel, Director of UNU-INWEH agreed to host us on the 24th February 2009. On this note I have to thank Tan Sri Dr. Mohammed Salleh Mohammed Yasin, Director of UNU-International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH) in Kuala Lumpur for helping us to secure the appointment. The United Nations University-Insitute Network for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) as a whole may be seen as the United Nations think tank on water issues. UNU-INWEH created in 1996 is supported by Canada, and hosted by McMaster University. UNU-INWEH is seen as a capacity development and water agency to help address the Millenium Development Goal for water (Target 7c of the Millenium Development Goal which is "To reduce by half the proportion of people without sustainable access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation"). Yes people, while we in Malaysia may enjoy good sanitation and relatively safe drinking water the same can't be said about the millions at risk of dying from water related diseases.

The UN also has identified the years 2005-2015 as the Water for Life decade and this 22 March 2009 will be World Water Day!

We had a brilliant time at UNU-INWEH as we learnt more of the programmes they are currently embarking on such as Coral Zone Ecosystem, Dryland Ecosystem, Freshwater Ecosystem and the Water-Health Nexus. We were very intrigued with the Water-Health Nexus programme and more so when we learnt that Dr. Corinne Schuster-Wallace a Programme Officer with UNU-INWEH would be travelling out to Kuala Lumpur for a workshop on the 10-14 March 2009. The rest was history as we arranged for Dr. Wallace to deliver a talk entitled "The Global Water Crisis" to UKM's lecturers and students. The warmth and hospitality extended by Dr. Zafar Adeel certainly is a far cry from the weather.

Come to think of it the Canadians are a very friendly lot. Everywhere we went people were rather happy to help out. Just carry a map and someone will come up to ask if you need help.

I pin it down to serendipity as to how this networking has evolved. I guess if we begin with good intentions then everything will fall in place. Just as I'm writing this post, Prof. Pauzi, Head of ALIR is attending a workshop jointly organised by UNU-IIGH and UNU-INWEH.

Yes internationalisation is the way forward. Good communication and good intentions will resolve many of the world's problems inculding our water woes.

Water for Life! Air Demi Kehidupan!

Madam Curi presenting a gift to Prof. Susan Eliott a Senior Reseach Fellow with UNU-INWEH

Madam Curi presenting Dr. Corinne Schuster-Wallce with UKM propaganda material and gifts

The attentive participants

Corinne in action. She captivated us with her enthusiasm and her knowledge

Prof. Elliott explaining what UNU-INWEH does

Madam Curi introducing the speakers

Susan signing the ALIR's visitor book

Corinne (left) and Madam Curi sharing a light moment

En Jamil Ujang, ALIR's assistant research officer

Corinne (left) listening to Madam Curi's ramblings while YM En Raja (right) looks on

Madam Curi loves sharing i.e. talking

The visitors from Canada and Germany during a visit to ALIR's laboratory

Wong Solo in BBBangi

2009-03-09T20:25:00.004+08:00

Puspo Wardoyo @ the man behind Wong Solo

When I moved to Bandar Baru Bangi the best restaurant then was Restaurant Amir a mamak place. That was way back in 1989 about 20 years back. This town has since grown by leaps and bounds. The first shopping complex opened in the late 1990s. The opening of the five star Equatorial Hotel in early 1998 truly pushed Bandar Baru Bangi into the new millenium. I remembered being part of the organising committee of Asian Crystallographer's Association meeting in June 1998. We started organising the conference before the hotel was completed!

Yes my siblings used to make fun of the sister who lived in a place where there was no McDonalds nor KFC. Now we have a drive-in McDonalds complete with an indoor garden.

Latest addition to the new upmarket BBBangi is the new restaurant in town i.e. Wong Solo direct from Medan. Across the road from "Juice Poligami" Wong Solo comes Delifrance.

In a year's time a mini Alamanda will be opening its doors to me right here in BBBangi!

Stop Monkeying

2009-03-06T15:01:00.004+08:00

My posting three days ago was about monkeys in UKM. They are getting to be very bold. Found this male waiting for us when we came out of the lecture theatre. He sat there and cooly walked to a table filled with tit bits. He picked a packet of peanuts and walked off. Without paying!
What next I wonder? He might be sitting in my lecture!

Caught in the act of stealing a packet of peanuts!

Happy Birthday Ebi

2009-03-05T09:19:00.002+08:00

Happy Birthday Ebi @ Matapena @ King Jhora. Hope your day is filled with lots of wonderful memories. Trust the meetings will be a blast. ENJOY okay!

The Monkeys' Happy Hour

2009-03-03T14:14:00.002+08:00

When I started working in UKM many, many years ago we could hear the monkeys and ocassionally see them scavaging the bins for leftovers. However, as the University expanded and the land where they used to roam were utilised for students housing and new buildings they have less and less space to roam.

I was on my way home from work yesterday when I chanced upon this group having their evening happy hour. Some were just sitting and watching the cars go by. I wonder what they must be thinking.

Perhaps "Hmm those poor professors, cracking their brains to put food on the table. We have food given to us by students....okay sometimes we steal them.....and worst steal other things....Love this monkey life......Poor poor students and those professors teaching them".

The Walkerton Clean Water Center

2009-02-26T03:05:00.007+08:00

When I made the appointment to visit the Walkerton Clean Water Center (WCWC), I could not imagine how isolated Walkerton is. It took us close to 3 hours to reach Walkerton from Toronto. We passed through pristine fields upon fields of snow. We kept warm with Tim Hortons coffee and doughnut as we overtook snow ploughs busy working to keep the roads clear. Finally, Brian Jobb who works with the WCWC and lives in Toronto, announced that we were in Walkerton.

Why would anyone build a training centre in the middle of nowhere? For a good reason. A few years back, the water operator in this small town, faced problems with the presence of E coli in the drinking water resulting in 7 deaths and many sick people. The incident forced the government to relook at the capability of water operators. Now all water operators are required by law to undergo training and pass tests before they can operate. The WCWC serves as a training centre for the operators. It is also a reminder that care must be given towards ensuring that only capable personnels are involved in delivering drinking water to the public.

Upon arrival we were met by the CEO of the WCWC, Dr. Saad Jasim. He built the WCWC from scratch four years ago and to date has trained more than 15000 water operators. We visited the laboratory which houses several pilot plants depicting various processes used in water treatment. I was so impressed with the see through windows showing what exactly is happening inside each process.

The WCWC also offers opportunities for research and gives out scholarships to students.

Too soon we had to head back to Toronto. Thank you Dr. Saad Jasim for the warm hospitality. We see plenty of possibilities for future collaborations.

In discussion, from left; Dr. Saad Jasim, Brian Jobb and Madam Curi

Wan Farhiyah (left) listening to Dr. Saad's explanation

Slumdog Millionaire

2009-02-22T23:59:00.000+08:00

Yes I'm reposting this particular article because It is Written!

CONGRATULATIONS! 8 OSCARS......BEST PICTURE

Why? Because It is Written!

Yesterday afternoon was spent watching a movie with Haziman at KLCC. We heard so much about Slumdog Millionaire and just was very curious to watch it. Again the surprise win at the Golden Globe's did also spur me to catch this movie. I'm no movie buff and usually will watch at the most perhaps 3 movies a year.

It has been awhile since a movie can affect me so much. I came away feeling very emotionally moved by the whole experience. The plot is so simple and yet the images and messages were very deep and profound. Who would have thought a British director with an Indian cast could work wonders. The irony of it all this film depicts two Muslim brothers in India and the ending with the answer It is Written just decsribes fate in Islam.

This movie is a must see.

Toronto here we come

2009-02-22T22:11:00.006+08:00

When UKM was accorded research university status we the academics jumped for joy as it meant extra funding for research. With an additional RM 50 million it meant we could now include networking activities to further strengthen our research. At our Faculty of Science and Technology we have set-up a research centre dedicated to water research and analysis better known by its short name ALIR (yes they liked my version of branding this research centre). ALIR which means running water inadvertently denotes clean water.

As part of our strategy to internationalise ALIR we embarked on a series of public lecture to educate the public on challenges facing the sustainability of safe and clean water. During our second public lecture we invited Tan Sri Salleh, Director of United Nations University- International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH) as well as UKM's ex-VC to talk on safe water. We knew that UNU-IIGH would be like a window for us to create new linkages all over the world. During Tan Sri Salleh's talk he made a mention of The Walkerton Clean Water Centre (WCWC) and the UNU-International Network on Water, Environment and Health. The rest was history as the Faculty requested that I visit both these places to start the ball/snow :) rolling.

So that was how Wan Farhiyah and I ended up on this flight to Toronto in the middle of winter. We went through Hong Kong as that was the cheapest route. The flight from Hong Kong was rather turbulent. For 4 hours we rocked and rolled in the plane. The situation was very bad as even the stewardesses were belted up. It is a small wonder to me how the plane is rather agile being able to take the stress of strong winds.

We arrived to a very cold and snowy Toronto. The heavy vehicles were out in full force to clear the runways of snow.

What was interesting though was when the immigration officer attending to us spoke Malay. Mr Lee is a baba from Melaka and has been residing in Toronto for the last 5 years. He surely missed Kajang satay. That was the best encounter with an immigration officer. Thanks Mr. Lee.

Guess what it is still snowing. Hopefully by tomorrow the snow will stop as we have a three hour journey to our first meeting with the Walkerton Clean Water Centre.

The view from my hotel window. The lake is partially frozen.

What awaited us in Toronto airport. Looked more like a scene from a disaster movie.

Wan Farhiyah whose main job is to enhance ALIR's analytical capabilities

Madam Curi resting during the stop-over in Hong Kong

Wish us luck as we are not only flying the UKM flag but the Malaysia flag as well as we are also helping IWK with some networking initiatives and profiling.

Indah Air kerana IWK?

2009-02-20T16:16:00.008+08:00

Can IWK clean the mess and give us back clean water. Yes! Through processes that are speeded up by activated sludge. We descended upon the IWK plant in Pantai Dalam last Wednesday to witness for ourselves how our waste is being treated. Previously we had oxidation ponds to do the job but now with less space and more waste the process must be speeded up and we now use various technology to ensure we end up with clean water.

Basically our sewage consists of a lot of water and the main task of IWK is to separate the solid from the liquid and treat the waste to render it safe again. How is it done? Yes those microbes are there to do the job. Without them we would be swimming in our waste.

This plant in Pantai Dalam is currently handling wastes from about 900,000 of the KL folks. During the explanation Mr Suria one of the engineers there explained "Our peak operation time is about 11.00 am in the morning. People have their breakfast at about 8.00 and discharge perhaps at about 9.00 am. It takes the waste about 2 hours to arrive at the plant."

The whole process takes about 12 hours and at the end of it we get clean water that is discharged into the Klang river. Come to think of it, this effluent is actually helping to clean-up the Klang river!

See for yourselves!

Fashion is in the blood even though we were visiting a sewage treatment plant! For some even though not too strong, the lure of IWK was too strong to resist. From left: Madam Curi, En Jamil, AP Hadi, AP Dr. VaniMadam Curi (left) and Puan Rosmini Hashim (right) standing infront of the newly built digesters

The team

The IWK plant in Pantai Dalam
Sewage being pumped into the grids to separate big objects

Mr Suria explaining how it all works

The activated sludge will help clean-up the sewage

It smells like a big toilet but we still could smile

Secondary clarifier

The final effluent, clean clear water that is discharged into the Klang river. The irony of it all the water quality of the effluent is better than that of Klang river

Yes we still could eat and drink after the hard work!

Bloggers on Awani

2009-02-08T22:03:00.008+08:00

My first posting in Nina's Chemistry was my thoughts on Merdeka. I began blogging in August 2007 mainly to keep a personal diary of my life. Sometimes to write down my emotions. Never did I realise how powerful the blog is. Initially, only family members read my blog but now I get feedback from people that I don't know. People like Mat Pasteur has been very loyal indeed.

Blogging has become a way of life for me. I feel uneasy if I do not post new articles. It certainly has sharpened my creativity. When I go about my daily life I see things and make a mental note on matters that I can write about.

So when Awani invited me to be a panelist on Perspektif Kita to talk on blogs I was excited. Blogging has become my passion and I have to thank Matapena for always encouraging me to keep at it.

What was overwhelming for me though was sharing the platform for this discussion with very prominent bloggers, the likes of Datuk Abdul Kadir Jasin (The Scribe), Datuk Ruhanie Ahmad (Kudakepang), Dato' Fuad Hassan (Dakwat dan Kertas), Sultanmuzaffar and Matapena (Bicara Lelaki).

Meeting these bloggers in person truly was an experience in itself. I learnt many new things in the discussion on blogs in Perspektif Kita. Dato' Abdul Kadir Jasin's wisdom is something we should be tapping from The Scribe. Dato' Fuad Hassan put forward his view as "Perjuangan yang ditakdirkan" and reaffirmed by Datuk Ron's parting words on blogs as the media rakyat.

Let us keep on writing. The pen or the blog will always be mightier than the sword.

From left, Hj. Nazri, Datuk Ruhanie Ahmad, Matapena, Dato' Fuad Hassan, Madam Curi, Datuk Abdul Kadir Jasin and Sultanmuzaffar.

We had fun but the LV bag was at hand to give me the extra confidence

Mud Floods FST

2009-02-05T11:03:00.005+08:00

Last Monday we experienced heavy downfall which is a regular feature in tropical Malaysia. However, when I left the office I was shocked to find mud covering our foyer. Yes, we the academics of UKM have been busy telling everyone that we should develop in a sustainable manner. But when the new FST administrative building construction site nearby caused this mud flow we need to look at ourselves. We are no better than anyone really. When the mud flow had covered quite a big part of FST, only then we see many people converging on the construction site.

Rather reactionary and definitely not precautionary nor visionary.

Jalan Jalan Cari Jamu

2009-02-03T15:57:00.005+08:00

After all the hard work attending ISSTEC 2009, the chemists gave themselves a deserved rest and relaxation. If all the muscle aches and all that wind still persisted after massage and spa, no problem if you are in Yogyakarta. Breakfast at the Novotel Yogyakarta comes complete with a jamu lady. Yes folks jamu is being served at breakfast alas a much diluted version to cater to the fragile tourist palate. Just tell the lady what your concerns are and she will prepare the perfect concoction. I am one of those that gets wind easily and she gave me this nice beras kencur drink. Wow, 30 minutes later a wind free Madam Curi.

However if that is not enough and if you are willing to pick up the challenge, go to a warung jamu. A kopitiam hangout place but serving only the best jamu. Beware it is made for the hardy people only as you may decide from the pictures below.

A must visit place in Yogyakarta as it is a dying culture

Bottoms up in one gulp. This is no sirap bandung...

Getting ready for the big gulp of jamu komplit. Yes they come in pairs, the bitter jamu komplit and the penawar small glass of sweet kencur

Yes there are plenty of cheers for those able to complete the challenge

Happy and healthy faces after the jamu komplit

The big question? Did Madam Curi take up the challenge? A big yes in one gulp too. I must say that I felt rather queasy on the way back to the hotel. Apparently that is a common feeling that many will have after taking the jamu. But later on after all the dewinding.....ahh I felt lighter and good.

So the next time you are in Yogyakarta or in any Indonesian city lookout for their local jamu hangout place. Try it as I don't know how much longer such places will exist. Pity that with Strabucks and Gloriajeans the local warung jamu will lose out. Perhaps the warung jamu needs a new facelift and rebranding. Jalan jalan cari Jamu. Yang komplit ya pak dan bu!

ISSTEC 2009 in Yogyakarta

2009-01-27T21:07:00.016+08:00

It was de javu when I stepped off the plane for the ISSTEC (International Conference on Science and Technology) 2009 in Yogyakarta. I did the same thing many, many years ago in August 2002 to be precise. Then I was the Head of the International Relations Department and we were going to sign an MOU with Universitas Islam Indonesia ( a private university). We almost did not sign the MOU as the box containing the MOU was not tagged by MAS and was left behind in KLIA. Anyway with much intervention and help from Siti Naaishah we managed to retrieve the box and the MOU was signed. UKM then undertook a series of activities with UII such as training of their staff especially for PhDs.

This time we were here for a seminar jointly organised by UII, UKM and Universiti Malaysia Terengganu. The seminar attracted more than 1000 presentation and it served as a good platform for UKM researchers to inform and share what we can offer. Personally, it was a good seminar as my presentation created interest among the participants. One came all the way from Pontianak from Universitas Tanjung Pura. Yes Indonesia has lots of young researchers who are talented and eager to take the challenge if they are given the chance. I hope we can enhance the relationship between this two great nation. We have much to gain by helping each other. I reckon the way forward is through education. An educated and informed society will ensure we can uphole rule of law and may justice prevail.

The UKM delegate to UII led by Tan Sri Anuwar in August 2002

At the conference dinner. From left, Dr Junaidi (Director of MSD in Jakarta), Madame Curi, PM Datin Dr. Ainon Hamzah. Glad that Junaidi still remembers his friends.

The four ladies all dressed up for the conference dinner. From left; Dr. Shahila, Datin Ainon, Dr. Normah and Madam Curi

Madam Curi loves sharing her experiences

All set for our presentation. From left; Professor Musa Ahmad, Madam Curi and our Madam Chairperson for the session

Prof. Pauzi giving the keynote address

At Sekar Khedaton. Food is fabulous.

Pen Mightier Than the Sword

2009-01-21T23:07:00.000+08:00

In the last few days my inbox has been inundated with many e-mails calling for the boycotting of "American" product. I don't know if it will affect the sales of these companies.

However, it dawned on me too on what we can do to show our support and solidarity towards the people of Gaza. I just don't know what can we do to effectively bring peace to Gaza. I have a student from Palestine but she and family are now residing in Saudi Arabia. I hope her stint in a Malaysian university will help her in future endeavours to help her people.

I now have two postdocs from Iraq. They were so happy to be working in our laboratories. Here they have the chance to realise their full potential. My new postdoc Dr. Shayma said something to the effect "How can I ever thank you". It hit me then. This is what we can do to further consolidate the Muslims. We need to do good research and create new knowledge. Through education we can sharpen our minds and skills.

We have seen this war in the middle east for the last 60 years. Same story each time. We as Muslims need to stand together and help one another. I hope my foreign students' stint in UKM will benefit them. I too hope they will return to their home country to help build it again.

Perhaps this is the way to fight injustice.

The pen will always be mightier than the sword.

Obama's Moment in Time

2009-01-21T01:31:00.003+08:00

Congratulations President Barack Obama. What a speech. Good luck and may we look forward to new beginnings.

Faizal Tahir

2009-01-19T19:27:00.001+08:00

FAIZAL TAHIR YOU ROCK!!

Faizal Tahir - Sampai Syurga :-

Ku membenarkan jiwaku
Untuk mencintaimu
Ku persembahkan hidupku
Untuk bersama kamu

Dan diriku untuk kamu
Belum pernah kumerasai begitu

Semua itu telah berlalu
Harapanku palsu
Dan mungkin hari yang satu
Terus ku tertunggu

Di hatiku masih kamu
Belum pernah ku ingin terus memburu

Aku lemah tanpa kamu
Ku inginmu dampingi ku
Aku fahami aku bukan terbaik
Untuk dirimu

Namun aku tetap aku
Yang terbaik untuk diriku
Hanya satu
Hanya kamu

Ku membiarkan hatiku
Untuk merinduimu
Ku menghamparkan sakitku
Untuk tatapan kamu

Bersamamu harapanku
Hilang dalam terang yang membutakanku
[Sampai Syurga lirik on http://lyricsmusicvideo.blogspot.com ]

Aku lemah tanpa kamu
Ku inginmu dampingi ku
Aku fahami aku bukan terbaik
Untuk dirimu

Sampai syurga ku menunggu
Sampai syurga ku cintamu
Hanya kamu

Dan segala yang ku ada
Ku berikan semua
Untuk dirimu saja

Ku mahu dirimu
Bahagia untuk selamanya
Biar sampai syurga
Aku menunggu cinta darimu
Agar ku sempurna

Aku fahami aku bukan terbaik
Untuk dirimu
Namun aku tetap aku
Yang terbaik tuk diriku

Hanya satu

Aku lemah tanpa kamu
Ku inginmu dampingi ku
Aku fahami aku bukan terbaik
Untuk dirimu

Sampai syurga ku menunggu
Sampai syurga ku cintamu
Hanya kamu

Law of Attraction

2009-01-15T22:29:00.003+08:00

When I read the Secret I was glued to the book. It was like a revelation. No, more like a reaffirmation on something which I observed over the years. Some people with a big heart seemed to get it all. Even our religion requests that we should love our enemy. Always have good thoughts and good things will come your way. A good man thinks pleasant thoughts and the rest should be left to God's will.

I have been trying hard to further fine tune my thoughts to be on the positive side. The result is just amazing. I saw myself as having many postgraduate students and presto they are flocking like bees now. Just yesterday, this Iranian came looking for me. He wants to join my group. I found out that he is an organic chemist. I gently broke the news that I'm an inorganic chemist. Anyway, took him to meet my collegues even though I was just so tired and had to rush to the golf club to check on the dinner that I organised for the faculty. Good news that one of my colleagues will become his supervisor.

The dinner last night was a bit different. WE decided to try something we never did before. Malam satu darjat. A night without stratification. And presto again everyone had a good time. We truly felt like being a unified faculty. Someone commented "Yang did you command your people to work hard?". My simple answer "No, I empowered them to do whatever it took to make the night memorable". Yes, the law of attraction does work.

Two days ago I had a call from Prof. Morshidi in USM asking if I could help him out with a project on international students. I said yes of course. I had been thinking about how to turn around higher education in Malaysia and the law of attraction is kneading its way to make it happen.

Yesterday during FST's celebration to commemorate 10 years of unification I had a pleasant surprise. There in the FST's bulletin were two of my articles and a big picture of me. Not my doing but the production team has been busy going through my blog to access pictures. Thank you for taking the trouble. Gesture is much appreciated.

Now, I understand why Tan Sri Salleh was able to make all of us work so hard. The difference we were happy to do so because he empowered us. Hmmm perhaps he knew the secret.

My conclusion is that the law of attraction is when we put our good faith in Allah. We need to let go and concentrate on thinking good. Amin

Kam Sheds New Light in Gaza

2009-01-13T21:59:00.004+08:00

The Palestinians plight has been in and out of news ever since the state of Israel was formed in 1948. Today UKM had a discussion on this old problem that has taken on a new turn with the recent war getting into day 18. Kam was there as one of the speakers.

He truly wowed the audience and I could see everyone practically hanging on to every word he uttered. As Kam put it into perpsective, the war is not just a physical war but also a war of of the media. It was refreshing to hear this problem from a new perspective. Good on you Kam. Even HE Abdul Elaziz the Palestinian Ambassador to Malaysia was intently listening to Kam's presentation.

Bottomline modern warfare is not limited to the weapons alone. The ability to fully use the media to win the PERCEPTION of the masses is important too.

Now I can understand why country like Canada will support the agression by Israel.

So what can we do? I guess even though boycotting American products will not cause much dent in the profit margins of these companies we need to show support and solidarity to the Palestinians.

I'm going local. Jom lets drink at kopitiam and eat ayamas.

Pulau Perhentian: Antara Dua Wajah

2009-01-07T18:09:00.005+08:00

Was working when I stumbled upon this sajak written by our friend Dr. Misran Rokimin. We were on this field trip to Pulau Perhentian. We were suppose to go for candat sotong but alas the weather did not allow us and we had to turn back. Pulau Perhentian was magical with beautiful beaches.

The girls enjoying the beach

Pelarian from the storm

Pulau Perhentian: Antara Dua Wajah
(Buat teman-teman yang bersantai)

oleh Dr. Misran Rokimin

20 Julai 1977
Dulu aku hadir
Bersama teman guru sesekolah
Meredah ombak dengan
Bot nelayan yang sampai
Di dadamu perlahan dan longlai.

Aku terkasmaran
Mendakapi dada putih pasirmu
Menelusuri bibir pantai
Sambil lidah ombak menjilat
Basah kaki
Lalu berlari
Memanjati bukit hijau
Dengan hembusan angin semilir
Terasanya nikmat alam
Sesuci atma semurni mutiara

28 April 2007
Kini aku hadir lagi
Bersama teman sekampus
Meredah ombak dengan
Bot 400 kuasa kuda yang sampai
Di dadamu bagai kilat.

Aku terkasima
Bukan putih pasirnya
Bukan biru lautnya
Bukan hijau bukitnya
Tapi gerombolan manusia atas angin
Yang bercelana kecil
Yang berkotang halus
Bersantai berpasangan
di bawah sinar terik
ditemani air buih.
Pandangan biasa
Bagi anak muda di sini
Yang mudanya aku
Terlihat dalam gambar.

What We Did Last Christmas

2009-01-06T13:38:00.003+08:00

We had a trifle party. For some eating the trifle was not enough! They had to have more like Yuz's leg.

Yummy, yummy

Yummy Mummy

Are they the same flavour

Oh dunia lihat lah .....my trifle

YUMMY YUZ!

Yes we jhoras love to makan and makan and at times many times, we eat what ever we can lay our hands on.

Noveu Shouezzz

2009-01-05T17:16:00.002+08:00

Goodbye 2008 Hello 2009

2008-12-31T11:34:00.008+08:00

Jhora et al.

Another year had gone by full of incidences. It has been a difficult year for me and perhaps for the whole family as we had to deal and adjust with Adek's stroke. We have come through it perhaps stronger and wiser. I'm must say that it humbled me most to see Talib dilligently taking care of his sick wife.

As we bid goodbye to 2008 my thoughts go through each month reflecting and reminiscing.

January - Was excited that my visa to New Zealand has been approved. I also presented at the MOHE Strategic Plan retreat in A Famosa.

February - Did more work for the Ministry of Higher Education. Prepared the powerpoint presentation for the Strategic Plan.

March - Pilihan Raya Umum ....Selangor is under opposition rule. I fly out o Dunedin. New Zeland is such a beautiful country.

April - Adek has a stroke. We are devastated. I was so helpless. Haziman skypes me everyday missing me. Help...I can't be away for too long. 6 weeks away is tough.

May - Ahh home sweet home. It was nice having the short holiday in Yogyakarta. Haziman and Imran enjoyed themselves.

June - More work for the MOHE. Wow was called to attend an important meeting. Next day was summoned by the boss and offered the job of Pengarah. Nice gesture but there are more important matters to work on.

July - Help to organise public lecture for ALIR.

August - Out to Bandung for two weeks sabbatical stint. Brilliant.

September - Puasa and my sabbatical ends.

October - So excited that I was invited to deliver a plenary lecture in a conference.

November - Completed my sabbatical report.

December - Global Brand Forum is so cool.

Yes beautiful people life is so full of surprises. My greatest lesson this year is to feel blessed no matter how difficult life is. Syukur I'm alive to see the people that I love and to be able to bring happiness to my jhora family! Yes it takes just a simple trifle sometimes.

Amin Amin Amin.

Updated:

Lyrics to Auld Lang Syne

Should old acquaintance be forgot,

and never brought to mind ?

Should old acquaintance be forgot,

and old times since ?
CHORUS:
For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we'll take a cup of kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
And surely you’ll buy your pint cup !

And surely I’ll buy mine !

And we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.
CHORUS
We two have run about the slopes,

and picked the daisies fine ;

But we’ve wandered many a weary foot,

since auld lang syne.
CHORUS
We two have paddled in the stream,

from morning sun till dine† ;

But seas between us broad have roared

since auld lang syne.
CHORUS
And there’s a hand my trusty friend !

And give us a hand o’ thine !

And we’ll take a right good-will draught,

for auld lang syne.
CHORUS

Tunku Muhriz proclaimed new Ruler of Negri Sembilan

2008-12-29T16:09:00.005+08:00

HRH Tunku Muhriz

Pic courtesy of the Star

Excerpt from the Star

Published: Monday December 29, 2008 MYT 3:53:00 PMUpdated: Monday December 29, 2008 MYT 3:59:12 PM

Tunku Muhriz proclaimed new Ruler of Negri Sembilan

PETALING JAYA: Tunku Besar Seri Menanti Tunku Muhriz, 59, has been proclaimed the 11th Yang DiPertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan.
Tunku Besar Seri Menanti Tunku Muhriz ibni Almarhum Tunku Munawir

The announcement was made Undang Luak Sungai Ujong, Datuk Klana Petra Datuk Mubarak Dohak at the Throne Room, Istana Besar Seri Menanti on Monday.
The appointment was decided by the four Undangs (ruling chiefs): Undang Luak Sungai Ujong, Undang Luak Johol, Undang Luak Jelebu and Undang Luak Rembau.
The 10th Yang DiPertuan Besar Tuanku Ja’afar Almarhum Tuanku Abdul Rahman had passed away on Saturday at the age of 86.

Fate deals with life in the most unexpected way. Wonder who will be the next Chancellor of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia?

More interesting the next Vice-Chancellor of UKM?

Al-Fatihah Negri ruler and former Agong Tuanku Ja’afar dies (updated)

2008-12-27T21:05:00.004+08:00

Picture courtesy of Star

Al-Fatihah. Semoga Almarhum baginda ditempatkan dikalangan orang-orang yang soleh. Amin.

From Star Online

Published: Saturday December 27, 2008 MYT 1:47:00 PM Updated: Saturday December 27, 2008 MYT 4:40:43 PM

SEREMBAN: Negri Sembilan Yang diPertuan Besar Tuanku Ja’afar Tuanku Abdul Rahman, who was the nation’s 10th Yang diPertuan Agong from 1994 to 1999, died at about 11.45am Saturday. He was 86 years old.
State Secretary Datuk Norzam Mohd Nor confirmed this at a press conference at the Tuanku Ja’afar Hospital here.
Tuanku Ja’afar had earlier complained of dizziness and chest discomfort.
“The hospital was contacted and two senior consultants, Datuk Dr Tarmizi Thayaparan and Datuk Dr K. Sree Raman, rushed to the Istana Hinggap here to attend to Tuanku,” Norzam told a special news conference to announce the demise at the hospital’s VIP room.
Also present at the news conference were Negeri Sembilan police chief Datuk Osman Salleh, State Director of Health Dr Zainal Arifin Omar and members of the royal family, according to a Bernama report.
Norzam said the two specialists arrived at Istana Hinggap at 8.25am and found Tuanku Ja’afar to be too weak but conscious and they advised that he be taken immediately to hospital.
“Tuanku was rushed to the Tuanku Ja’afar Hospital and admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and was administered emergency treatment.
“I wish to state here that Tuanku Ja’afar passed away at 11.45am at the Tuanku Ja’afar Hospital,” he said, Bernama reported. Norzam said Tuanku Ja’afar’s remains would be taken to the Istana Besar Seri Menanti in Kuala Pilah for the lying-in-state ceremony before being laid to rest after the asar prayers on Monday.
He also said that this was to allow for the return of Tuanku Ja’afar’s children who were abroad.
Norzam said Tuanku Ja’afar’s remains would be placed in the Balairong Seri (Throne Room) of the Istana Besar Seri Menanti to enable members of the royalty, leaders and the public to pay their last respects.
He said the state had declared 40 days of mourning from Saturday and all official government functions over the next seven days have been postponed.
“All government offices and buildings must fly the state flag at half-mast for the 40 days. During the mourning period, all male government employees must wear the songkok bearing a white band while the female employees are required to wear a white band on a sleeve.
“All entertainment outlets must also postpone all their activities over the next seven days from today,” he said, according to the Bernama report. Norzam said Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, who is on holiday in London, was expected back at 10am Sunday.
Distinguished serviceBorn in 1922, Tuanku Ja’afar studied at Malay College Kuala Kangsar before graduating from the University of Nottingham. He then attended Balliol College in Oxford.
During the Japanese occupation, he served at the Seremban Land Office and as district officer of Rembau from 1946 to 1947. Upon his return from Britain in 1952, he held several posts in the civil service.
In 1957, he took up a special course for diplomatic services in London and was appointed Charge d’ Affaires in Washington DC, then as First Secretary with the Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York, and later was Consular and Deputy High Commissioner at the High Commission of Malaya in London.
Tuanku Ja’afar was later appointed the Malaysian Ambassador to Egypt and then High Commissioner to Nigeria and Ghana.
He was recalled by the Negri Sembilan state government after the death of his brother Tuanku Munawir, the state ruler, and was appointed Ruler in 1967.
Tuanku Ja’afar was the 10th Yang diPertuan Agong of Malaysia.
He leaves behind wife Tuanku Najihah Tunku Besar Burhanuddin, three sons and three daughters.

Special profile on Tuanku Ja’afar’s 86th birthday: Reminiscing royal

Serendipity

2008-12-19T21:54:00.004+08:00

The first time I came across the word in a Mills and Boons book during my teens it struck me as a beautiful sounding word. Serendipity according to the Oxford Dictionary means "faculty of making happy discoveries by accident". Then serendipity was a word I associated with falling in love. "Love at first sight" stuff.

This year as I undertook my sabbatical the word serendipity has taken on a whole new dimension.

As I sat infront of my computer in University of Otago and started updating my literature search for my inaugural lecture the enormity of this beautiful word began unravelling itself. I was looking up on this platinum based antitumour drug, cisplatin and was going to the root of the discovery of this powerful drug when the story was told in the first Nature journal article by Rosenberg. The drug was discovered by chance when sunlight came shining through during an experiment he was conducting to study the effect of electric field on the growth of cells. If the sunlight did not shine through at the right time the compound would have been formed and the drug never discovered! How much more serendipitous can you get.

Later on when I was in Bandung again this word cropped up during Dr. Eggleton's lecture. A very important galactical phenomenon was discovered by chance. He used the word serendipity over and over again!

Last Wednesday Prof. Roger Kornberg, 2006 Chemistry Nobel Laureate delivered a public lecture in UKM. I was in a state of dejavu as he reiterated how his discovery of the transcripting process was truly a serendipitous event. Did you know that X-rays and penicillin were also discovered by chance! SERENDIPITY.

He reckons we should not think of solving a big problem head on. It is through breaking it up into small sections and working on it that we will find the right solutions. Serendipity!

I guess great discoveries are made by people with a spiritual mind. Spirited meaning doing the experiments whole heartedly with full of passion.

For more serendipitous discoveries please read on:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serendipity

Thank you Prof. Kornberg for illuminating this new phenomenon and I'm more confident in telling my research students that they need to make little doas before each experiment.

I guess serendipity is fate. If it is fated it will come to you! Amin.

Antara Dua Darjat

2008-12-12T09:22:00.005+08:00

The late Tan Sri P. Ramlee was very observant and created many films to challenge the mindset of the community especially the Malays. In his film "Antara Dua Darjat" he touched on a sensitive subject how we Malays treat each other. Yes, we look at the person's position first and foremost. Hence, the race to attain a title. Then we must appear good even though our pockets are suffering...hence the addage "Biar pape asai bergaya".

Now, with this Bukit Antarabangsa tragedy it looks like Malaysia after 50 years of merdeka has not changed much in terms of how we treat people. The people with status and money when faced with a tragedy are given first class treatment. They are placed in hotels instead of schools. They get hotel sponsored food instead of nasi kawah. And when Awani starts reporting that a very expensive necklace belonging to one of the victims has gone missing, something is seriously wrong with our society. It appears that material goods are more important than lives. This news was reported the same time as the bus tragedy in Johor.

When the rich are faced with tragedy the police and armed forces are given additional tasks which is to safeguard the houses too. I hope these additional man-hours would not jeopardize rescue efforts in other parts of the country such as those affected with floods.

I cringed when the Selangor police chief in a press conference proudly stated that army personnel seen carrying things from a condominium were actually helping a general who lives there. Does that not tantamount to abuse of power. Where is PAC man?

I gather there are plenty of lessons that can be learnt from this tragedy. We are a long way from a developed mindset with an egalitarian society. Perhaps Tun Mahathir is right. We have a long journey still towards Wawasan 2020.

The Global Brand Forum and Beyond

2008-12-05T22:31:00.009+08:00

Two weeks ago I jumped with joy when I received a fax from Dato' Seri Farid Ridzuan inviting me to participate in the Global Brand Forum. This was one event not to be missed as all the hip people will be there.

After two days the event has given me a better understanding of how best to move forward higher education in this country. I was given the task to profile UKM for five years and I had to learn while on the job. After listening to Jim Stengel I am reaffirmed that UKM under the leadership of Tan Sri Salleh was on the right track in branding UKM.

Basically what Jim said was that in this day and age the way to brand is
1. Make brand ideals your foundation. Everyone should be living by these ideals. In UKM we had RIQ (Research, Internationalisation and Quality). Everyone understood that we had to include these three basic activities in everything that we did.
2. Master inclusive marketing. Involve everyone on campus. There must be small collective decisions i.e. there must be empowerment and trust that people will do the job well.

3. Manage people not objectives.

4. Mission drives profit. World class companies profit from passion and purpose.

5. Measure what matters. Return on ideals (ROI). I guess we need clear and good KPIs.

The best presenter for the GBF must go to Martin Lindstrom. He is one truly amazing speaker. He researched on people's brain activity when they view brands. He is even coining new terms such as neuro marketeer! For those who missed his presentation please go to his website MartinLindsrom.com and the password to download his presentation is amazing.

The reason why I had to so much fun at this forum is because of the beautiful people that I met. Ebi, Fay, Kam, Hezle Helan, Nik Farhana, Ooi Beng Cheang, Karam Singh Walia, Goutham, Reezal Esa, and who can forget out official question extraordinaire Jonathan who wore a baju Melayu as it was a Friday yesterday. You guys made the forum special because you stirred the many emotions in me and we have created new rituals to brand the Forum.

Never in the life of me that I would forget being able to meet all these celebrities in one event. Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir recognised 'me' when I introduced myself as Madam Curi the blogger. I was humbled when she passed the comment "I thought you were overseas!".....I even talked to Tiara, Norma Norell and Wirda. Now Datuk Azman Ujang reckons that my sisters and cousins are married to prominent members of the media. Yes Datuk the jhoras are actually running the country.

The finale was of course having coffee with Hans Isaac and Afdlin Shauki together with Fay. Who came to say hello? Dato' Siti Nurhaliza and she is truly adorable and very "tertib and sopan".

Dato' Seri Farid thank you very much for the opportunity. I am humbled that you still remembered me. Thank you, Terima Kasih, Shukran, Danke, Merci......

Dato' Siti dropped by to say hello to Afdlin and Hans

With Stewart Butterfield the founder of Flickr

Riz Khan was a superb MC. He saved the day on many occasions

Madam Curi, Hezle and Hanita

Power people in the film industry. Farah Khan hmmm yeah fashion in the film industry

Oliver Stone, the man who is very honest and can't be bought. Interesting insights into Bush's secret government. Sounds incredibly familiar to our 4th floor boys

Madam Curi and Datuk Paduka Marina Mahathir

Matapena, Fay and Madam Curi

Safe Water

2008-12-02T22:03:00.004+08:00

Just got back from a workshop where we discussed matters on WATER. It turned out to be a very good meeting with lots of ideas being thrown out. It was so refreshing to hear what we scientists can do to help those in the water industry. We invited them to share with us what their woes are and there were plenty. Having them in our discussion group has helped us to gauge what type of research that we need to pay attention to. Perhaps there was a time when we were always a bit too self centred.

As someone said to me, the question that we need to ask ourselves "So what?"

We are now all geared up to ensure that Malaysia can sustain and ensure that the public gets safe water. Of course we are not talking about just water for drinking but the sanctity of the water too. Most religion uses water in its rituals and there will come a time when we have to ask the question "Is this water clean enough for ablution?" That time is sooner than we think.

As our source of clean water runs out we have to recycle. Can the public accept recycled water? Yes folks the problem is not that simple to solve.

We need to start now by educating the public to save our rivers. Keep it pristine. Can we do it?

YES WE CAN! YES WE MUST!

Wajah Senja

2008-11-28T17:32:00.004+08:00

Wajah oh senja
Berkilau-kilauan

This was the sunset that caught my breath as I sat by my hotel window. When we see such beauty the only thing that crossed my mind was Allah's greatness.

Syukur ya Allah for all your blessings.

If I Have 1 Million USD

2008-11-24T11:38:00.000+08:00

First I'll put in 750,000 in a fixed deposit account. Let the money grow. I will still work as work is a hobby to me.
I'll donate 25,000 to various suraus and masjids.
Then I'll go on a holiday to Switzerland with my family.....Stay in that hotel in Interlaken...yes the expensive one....Eat the best food. Lobster, rachlette cheese......After Switzerland I'll go over to London and put up in the Ritz for 2 nights....
In London I'll shop in Harrods and get my jhora family members presents. Yes a Chanel/Gucci/ Escada/YSL fancy necklace or bracelet or earrings........
After London it will be New York where I fancy the Park Hotel. Two nights and shop in Macy.
Then off to Bora-bora......swim, yatching , spa, dinner on the beach and sleep with the sound of waves gently lapping the sand......

Hmmm if I were a rich man......

To All My Beloved Friends

2008-11-21T07:21:00.000+08:00

The poem was posted by FazlinaTg on facebook and I found it to be very soothing to the mind and soul. Hope you enjoy the words. Thanks Fazlina Tg.

God Gave Me A Treasure In You

God answered my heart's deepest prayer the day He gave me you

God gave me a great treasure of immense and untold worth,

And brought a touch of Heaven to my lifetime here on earth

For He sent me someone wonderful, an angel from above,

When He blessed me with the gift of you - my friend, my joy, my love

by Emily Matthews