Da Vinci Code - A challenge to Christian Faith

It's Easter Sunday today.

I noted a very significant departure in the way the pastor delivered his sermon this morning. He put great emphasis on the need for attendees to bring along their own Bibles for the worship service. The pastor has decided that from now on, any Bible verse quoted would not be posted on the overhead screen. Everyone must turn to the Bible in his/her hands and pinpoint the correct texts being referred to. Anyone found not bringing a Bible with him when he comes to the church would be given a copy of the church Bible for personal reference throughout the service.

I guess the sudden emphasis in the Bible has to do with the Da Vinci Code and other "new gospels" now surfacing like the Gospel of Judas. The impression is that for a long time, the church has not put enough emphasis on the grounding and understanding of the Words of God. Now that Da Vinci Code is due to be shown in the cinema next month and it can be worrying to think of its impact on Christians.

The pastor did make reference to Da Vinci Code in his sermon and stressed the importance for believers to be able to defend their faith by correctly knowing the content of the Bible.

He did admit he has not read the book Da Vinco Code personally. I think it would have been better if he has read it first before shooting arrows at the book. Not that I am defending that book, I think one needs to really understand the content so as to be able to nail it and correct the misconception created by that book.

KK, A Well-Planned City?

The other day, I was surprised to read a letter to the Editor in the Stars from a reader praising the KK City. He was particularly impressed by the way KK has been planned and developed.

Personally, I do not quite agree with that assertion. This is probably because I have seen nicer city than KK. I wonder whether he has seen hawkers carrying out business on the walkways and illegal kids begging to wash cars!

The other worrying thing is safety in KK. Let just hope nothing untoward incident that he may encounter would change his perception of KK.

KK folks, make sure you always put on your lovely smiles.

Growing Up Pain

This morning, the Bible lesson in the Praise Kids Church was about the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus. When I met up with my Primary 6 kids in the separate classes. I was truly shocked to discover certain phenomenon among these kids of which I was quite unprepared for.

On the subject of death, one shared his experience in his attempt to commit suicide. On why he tried to kill himself, he said it was because of family problem. He told us he actually tried to hang himself from the door closer. But he freed himself when the choking became unbearable. He also said once he put his head into a pale of water and tried to drown himself. The choking forced him to pull his head up.

Another told the class he actually ran away from home and spent two hours in a KFC before deciding to go home. This arose because of what he considered very severe punishment meted out by the father.

Another girl from a manifestly model home told of her desire to run away from home due to study stress and expectation.

They told me that none of the family members knew about these. All these happened in the afternoon when the parents were away working. We all promised that we would keep this as a secret within the 4 walls among ourselves.

At the end of the sharing, I could feel wetness in my eyes. At such a young and tender age, they have already considered such an option.

I assured them that no matter what happen, their parents' love for them is 100%. They disagreed. One said that he is only being loved 99% but the other kids in his family 100%. Another said the parents love the younger one more than her.

Although I knew that this kind of feeling did cross every kid's mind one time or another. But, if this is not handled properly, it does have a bearing on his/her self-esteem and the perception of his/her standing in the family.

At the end of the session, I prayed for them and hugged some of them. Deep down, I hoped this session has been of help to them and I knew there is still a long way to go in life. I prayed that God would be merciful to all these kids who are just trying to grow up.

Another Dream Becoming a Reality at STS

Last night, we attended a launching dinner for the proposed new Multi-Purpose Education Centre for STS. This is another massive project costing RM10m-RM12m to build. A new auditorium will be part of this building that can accommodate 800 people.

On design, this building will be a challenge to us as structural engineers. Column-free upper floor and sloping seating platform spanning 26.5m.

The programme for the dinner was rather interesting. We had the Basel Church Tenom Children Choir (The Malaysian version of the Vienna Boys Choir); Solo Guitarist performance, Violin-Piano combined performance as well as the Tshung Tshin Chinese Orchestra.

I was talking to my wife about the chances of Paul and Sam performing in the Chinese Orchestra. We guess their reply: " No way, hean tor oh!"

Bomb Hoax at Basel Church, Likas

We first heard of this on Friday night in the Cell meeting. We thought it was an April Fool joke. The next day, it came out as news in the local papers.

Interesting News for Reflection

 Lately, 2 incidents set me thinking.

1st case. A man is demanded to be executed because he converted to another faith which is deemed an insult to the god of the accuser.

2nd case. A woman reported to the religious authority that she heard the husband in his sleep ushering 3 times his intention to divorce her. The religious authority ruled that the marriage is therefore void and the couple is deemed divorced. However, the couple insisted that they are still in love and has no intention to be separated. The religious authority ruled that if the wife wanted to be reunited with the husband again, she must first marry another man and stay with him for one night after which the 2nd man would divorce her. Only then, she can go back and be married to the 1st husband again.

This is truly a subject for reflection.

Another Couple is Considering Tying the Knot

We have been leading another couple in the premarital counselling, considered a very "matured" couple, Vincent Lee and Fung Yun Fon. Sam and Paul definitely know the lady - a History teacher in All Saints. I can visualize Sam's surprise in knowing this teacher of his getting married! Well, it's better late than never.

We have already covered 4 sessions namely Covenant of Marriage; Understanding Each Other; Roles of Husband and Wife and Communication. The remaining sessions will be on Anger and Conflict Resolution; Money Matter; Sexuality & Family Planning and finally In-Laws and Wedding Planning. The tough one which will be both interesting and challenging and not easy to conduct will be on the subject of sex.

Hot News about SMK St. Mary, Papar

Get the latest hot news from the Daily Express dated 15 March 2006! The highlight features none other than Steve Sulis, a brilliant student from SMK St. Mary, Limbahau, Papar - the very school where my wife serves as the school principal.

Steve made headlines for scoring an outstanding 10A’s in the SPM examination, a feat that brought pride not only to his family but also to the entire school community. When interviewed, Steve humbly attributed his success to the guidance and inspiration of his father, a C&S consulting engineer.

With such strong academic foundations and family support, Steve aspires to pursue a degree in civil engineering, aiming one day to follow his father's foot step.

Funny Road Names

How do you like to stay in a place with these funny road names :

Case 1 : There was this chap who went to see a doctor to treat his vomiting sickness. The doctor asked, "Where do you stay?". He answered, "Jalan Muntahan " - translated as Vomiting Road in English. The doctor looked at him in awe and speechless, "...............".

Case 2 : There was this couple who had been married for the last 10 years and had been trying hard to have a baby. Finally, they decided to consult a fertility doctor. At the clinic, the doctor asked, "What's your problem ?". The wife answered, "We like to have a baby but has not been successful for the last 10 years". The doctor asked, "Where do you stay ?". The husband answered, "Jalan Family Planning Centre". The doctor looked up speechless.

According to the Director of JKR, the funny road names were due to engineers giving funny names to some of the newly completed roads. Come on, engineers, not again !

"Sablish" on the Rise

Just now during our jogging in Tun Fuads Park. I overheard a little girl probably about 10 years old talking to her mother who is in her early 30's.

"Hot must be used what oh ?" Said the little girl. Amazing "English" or rather Sablish!

From the mother's response, I think this was what the girl meant: I am feeling hot. What do I use to wipe the sweat ?

The unique thing is that the mother understood her. Why? Because the mother also spoke Sablish.

It is really incredible how English has "progressed".

Shortage of Engineers of Calibre

After the resignation of my young engineer, we finally put up an ad for new engineers. This time, we identified ourselves by inserting our company's name in the ad. So far, only 2 applicants applied for the Design Engineer post while a number applied for the RE posts.

I called the 1st applicant for DE post who faxed his application to our office the same day the ad came out. He happened to be currently working with a similar consulting firm not far from our office. I asked him during the interview what made him decide to apply for a job in our company. To my amazement, he told me that a draftslady who once worked in our firm and now working in this other firm strongly encouraged him to apply. According to him, these are her words, "This is a once in a life time opportunity, don't miss it, grab the opportunity". The reason: This is a good firm to work with and the staff are pleasant. I could sense that the draftslady spoke highly of her ex-bosses! That's nice to hear :) Another reason: For the past two years, he has been doing the same drainage design over and over again. He hoped to be given opportunity to do a variety of design work.

He was recruited on the spot. But we have to wait for another 2 months before he can report for duty. He needs 2 months notice.

Through this recent recruitment plus our previous similar exercises, the picture we gather is that there aren't many engineers of reasonable quality around. Sad for Malaysia. The lack of emphasis on English has destroyed a whole generation of people!

Trying Out My Nike

I managed to get my wife to go for a jog at Tun Fuads Park this afternoon. This was essential for her after a heavy lunch at Promenade. This also gave me the opportunity to try out my Nike that has been lying there for quite awhile.

Unfortunately, we went a bit too late. By the time we did a round, it was dark and Kampong Nelayan Restaurant was all lighted up for business. No mood to carry on the 2nd round.

Old People are Worth a Fortune !

Here is a humorous sms I received from my wife today. I believe this is also dedicated to Mamalim and SunnyPerth.

Don't be afraid to grow old. Old folks are worth a fortune. They have silver in their hair. Gold in their teeth. Stones in their kidneys. Gas in their stomach. Kencing pun manis. Darah pun ada kelas: Tinggi (high blood...).

Light at the End of Tunnel at Last

I was away today to Tawau to attend the progress meeting of a project that has been on-going for the last 40 months and is still only 95% completed. It was supposed to be 22 months but delayed and delayed and delayed for a further 18 months. From the look of it, we are likely going to be stuck with it for another 2 more months!

The annoying thing is that a RM36m project is run by 1 man only. He is trained as a QS but has to also assume the roles of project manager, site engineer, QS, purchasing man, foreman, liaison man, finance man all in one. He is a nice chap but the work load is just too much for him to handle. It is really ridiculous. The sad thing about some of Malaysian contractors is that they hope to make maximum profit with minimum overhead and management cost! So far, this is the kind of scenario we see in Sabah. Not very promising as far as construction industry is concerned.

We had a fairly hard drilling on him in the meeting and hoped that he could at last get his act together and mobilise whatever resources within his grasp and finish the project once and for all by the end of March.

All of us want to move on from this project which has been dragging on far too long. Wish me luck!

3 Wins in 4 Matches

I did well in my badminton game tonight. 3 wins in 4 matches. That means a net win of 2 tins of 100 plus. By the way, no frustration and no throwing of racket!

Thank God, I seem to be regaining my old self. But, I know I must be careful, no rigorous smashing lest I might injure my spine again.

The Airlines Have Gone Nut

Sam left for Melbourne this afternoon after a fairly dramatic change of flight plan. He was supposed to have left on a 3.30pm direct flight to KL. Then in the morning, I received a call from the travel agent informing me that the 3.30pm flight has been delayed and rescheduled to 7.00pm in the evening. As recommended by the travel agent, his fight was then changed to 1.40pm via Brunei.

We left home and sent him to the airport reaching there at 12.45pm. Just when I was about to park the car, I received a call in the hand phone from my wife telling me that Sam has left his passport and air ticket at home. Without a thought, I sped and rushed home as fast as I could to pick up the items. Half way of the trip, my hp rang again and my wife told me that the flight has been delayed to 2.10pm. That gave me a bit of breather. Still, I was back to the airport in 35 minutes!

After sending him off and upon reaching home, we received a call from Sam telling us that the flight would be further delayed to 3.00pm. He gave us another piece of "shocking "news. He left his digital camera in the car. By then, it was too late. We just have to think of a way to get the camera to him, somehow.

We expected him to reach KL by 7.00pm the latest. Finally, he sms'ed and told us that the flight was also delayed in Brunei. He finally arrived KL at 8.00pm. He told us that the flight to Melbourne would fly as scheduled. We really hope so. At this moment, we just pray that he is comfortably seated in the plane and on his way to the country down south.

By the way, this flight delay and mess-up was not only experienced by Sam. Paul did experience the same thing. In his case, he was supposed to have arrived Sydney by 7.20am on 17 Feb. Somehow, we discovered later that he actually arrived at 9am caused by flight delay in Brunei.

Our airlines have gone nut !

Chap Goh Mei 2006

Sunday 12 February 2006 was Chap Goh Mei. We had another family reunion dinner to end this year CNY celebration. This dinner was held at our home at our suggestion. As far as I could see and feel from the atmosphere of the gathering, all enjoyed it and the conversation was cordial and relaxed. My 2nd brother has grown more sober as year is catching up on him and there appeared more tolerance and understanding between him and the wife.

We also took the opportunity to celebrate my Mom's 78th birthday. That was the first time the children and grandchildren sang the Happy Birthday Song to her after she blew out the candles. In the past, as far as I could remember, there was no singing after the cake cutting which was held in her house. I also couldn't really explain why. Probably, the setting and atmosphere was not so conducive!

When they finally left for homes, we extended a wedding photo of MH and Serene to each family which was long long overdue. To be exact, more than 13 months overdue.

I was glad that our house turned out to be a good venue to further enhance the bond between the siblings. I hope this gathering can turn into some kind of annual tradition wherein the brothers, sister and the next generation can get together for bonding and sharing. I was glad my children get along well with their cousins as I believe this is also important for the family to survive as a unit in the years to come.

The Book of Ruth

The last three nights, I attended a teaching session by Pastor Benny Ho on the Book of Ruth. He opened a totally new approach in looking at this book in the Old Testament.

It would be too long to record all the teaching in this blog. I would just highlight an interesting part of it : How he ended the teaching at the final night.

The Book of Ruth ends with the following in Chapter 3:18-22.

This then is the family line of Perez:

Perez was the father of Hezron,

Hezron the father of Ram,

Ram the father of Amminadab,

Amminadab the father of Nahshon,

Nahshon the father of Salmon,

Salmon the father of Boaz,

Boaz the father of Obed,

Obed the father of Jesse,

and Jesse the father of David.

Benny just could not believe that such a profound book should just end with a series of funny names. It would be an anti-climax of sort if it is the case. He analysed the meanings of these names and found these :

Perez : breach

Hezron: enclosed

Ram: high or exalted

Amminadab: my noble kinsman

Mahshon: enchantment

Salmon: garment

Boaz: in him is strength

Obed: servant

Jesse: one who is

David: beloved.

The hidden message based on the meanings of these names Benny told us is this :

"The breach is enclosed by my high and exalted Noble Kinsman with enchantment in His garment. In Him is strength to serve the one who is His Beloved"

Amazing, don't you think ?

I Lose a Staff Member

The other day when office resumed work after the Chinese New Year break, one of my engineers whom I consider to be most promising tendered his resignation. I was significantly shocked by his decision since we just had a performance review with him and offered him a very substantial salary increment.

He explained that when he was back home in Penang for the CNY holidays, he was bombarded with strong words by parents and relatives who pressurized him to return to West Malaysia to work so as to be closed to home. They even said something like..."If you continue to remain away from home leaving your aging parents alone back home, this is considered not filial". He told me that his other older brothers are working in various parts of West Malaysia and that leave him to take care of his parents.

Secondly, he told me that his teacher-girl friend is now posted to Johor and he wanted to be closer to her. On whether he was afraid his gf might be "won" over by another man, he said that anything could happen and it is better that he stays closed-by to pre-empt any such change of heart. I was thinking - If there is true love, distance doesn't matter. But then, everyone views relationship differently. Statement of this nature would not necessarily help.

One thing I was very pleased to hear. He told me his gf is a strong Christian and he has also decided to be a Christian. I assured him that that was a very important and wise decision and such decision would ensure them an enduring husband-wife relationship if ever they ever decide to become husband and wife.

Already, he told me that he has started facing unfriendly gestures from family members because of his decision to become Christian though he has not officially announced his conversion. As usual, his parents were worried that their son would not be there to hold the joss-stick at their funeral.

I assured him that the best way to convince the parents of his filial piety and love for parents is by his continuous respect and love to his parents and other members of his family. God would work in a special way to open up minds and change attitude.

I have heard many beautiful stories of how from one member of a family becoming a Christian and ultimately all become Christians because of what they saw in the person's total changed life.

I was very sad that he is leaving the company. But life goes on and it is normal that people move on and begin another phase of lives elsewhere.

I pray that his new found faith will be a blessing to people whom he comes into contact with just as he has been a blessing to our company.

Yee Sang for Farewell Lunch

Eating Yee Sang is always fun because it requires team effort to get the disc well done. We had one in Serene/Meng How farewell lunch. Guess whose hands are these. Yammy!

CNY 2006 Reunion

A moment captured in time that is not easy to come by !

You Raise Me Up : To More Than I Can Be

A song that came to my mind when the reality sank into me that my father was no longer on this earth with me..................

When I am down and, oh my soul, so weary;

When troubles come and my heart burdened be;

Then, I am still and wait here in the silence,

Until you come and sit awhile with me.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;

You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;

I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;

You raise me up: To more than I can be.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;

You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;

I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;

You raise me up: To more than I can be.

There is no life – no life without its hunger;

Each restless heart beats so imperfectly;

But when you come and I am filled with wonder,

Sometimes, I think I glimpse eternity.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;

You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;

I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;

You raise me up: To more than I can be.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;

You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;

I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;

You raise me up: To more than I can be.

My Dad was Called to Eternal Rest

The day that I had been apprehensive about finally came on 25 January 2006. My father was finally called to eternal rest. I was apprehensive because I wasn't sure how I would have responded to it and how other people would have responded to it. But it turned out all right.

My Dad had no major illness but had been frail for the final two years of his life. He had movement difficulty and therefore required practically 24-hour nursing care.

I love the way Christians describe the closing of a chapter of a person's life on earth. Physical death is a transition from the toil and suffering in this world to eternal rest in the loving arm of God. I am very glad to know that my father is now resting in the arm of God, free from all struggles, disappointments, unfulfilled wishes......

As I reflect on his life, I want to think of all the good and pleasant moments that was spent with him. My dad was a simple man. His greatest strength: Unwavering commitment to the raising of his family (he spent practically every cent he earned for the care and the well-being of his immediate family); no bad habits like drinking and gambling; faithfulness to his wife. You can almost say that he was a perfect father and husband.

Though he was not a very expressive man as far as showing love to his loved ones is concerned, you could feel that he loved his children all the same.

I remember when we were kids, he would always buy a little pack of goody when he finished works and gave them to his children to share. Every evening at around 7pm, the kids looked forward to this moment of receiving the goody and sharing it. He did this faithfully without fail. This simple gesture would be always treasured in my heart.

Thank God

I was looking at the annual year end card given to me at the closing of 2005 by a school mate who is also a church friend for more than 37 years.

He has been faithfully serving as the our church's Boys Brigade's captain for the last 31 years. This in itself is an achievement that I have not found an equal, at least in Sabah. What he wrote in the card though may seem plain and rhetorical to many, but to people who know him, it is statements that come from the bottom of his heart.

"......I asked that you think about what you are thankful for. Sometimes in life, it seems that we are always looking for something; hoping to gain or profit in some way. Rarely, however do we think about how we can give to other".

Saying "thank you" to those who have blessed us in some large or small ways is a beautiful gift from the heart, which does not cost us anything, and yet is tremendously precious.

Most importantly, let us not forget to thank God for creating the world and allowing us to live upon it.

Let us thank Him for the gift of being a father, mother, grandpa, grandma, siblings, friends and loving spouse.

Thank Him for the food on the table, the roof over our heads. Let us give thanks that we have clothes to wear and are reasonably healthy. Thank Him for our jobs and our modern conveniences, because in some places of the world, there are people who have none of these."

THANK GOD.

Trip to See Proboscis Monkey

In the past, we used to go to Sukau at Kinabatangan River to see the proboscis monkey. This time (15 Jan 2006), we had a change. We tried this new place at Klias River near Beaufort to see this monkey and the fire flies.

We did see some of the monkey but not as near and as many compared to the trips we had to Sukau. Probably it's because of the noisy boat engine used by the operator of this Lodge. They all went into hiding each time the boat tried to get near.

Fire flies were nice. They hid among the trees along the river bank and when they blinked, the effect is like the blinking mini light bulbs of the Christmas tree.

Accommodation wise, the standard was in no way comparable to that in Sukau. Mattresses were just laid out on the elevated bamboo floor. The operator's intention probably is to let the visitors have a feel of staying in a long house like the one at the photo's background. Still, the price they charge does not match the kind of service offered. It is very unlikely that we would recommend anyone to go back to this particular one!

With regards to the lovely girl next to my wife, she came all the way from Singapore to see Sam. In return, we offered her a chance to see our rare monkey which was one of the the visit's highlights! Hope she has enjoyed the visit..

Front Porch

The plants at the Front Porch are blooming this Christmas.

Chiropractic

Before 8 Dec 2005, I have never heard of the term "Chiropractic". No apology for the ignorance for I am not in the medical line.

This term was introduced to me by my niece, Ah Min when I was in KL recently. She told me to look for a chiropractic to fix my spinal pain problem. In fact, she made numerous calls to try to fix an appointment with a chiropractic for me. Somehow, it didn't work out.

By the time I was back to KK, we discovered in the local newspaper ad of the service of an orthopedic cum chiropractic. At last, we finally found a chiropractic in Sabah!

My first encounter with a chiro was his special bed that I was asked to lie on. A lot of pressings over my neck and back areas. But his twisting of my neck was most scary. I could hear the clicking sound of my neck bones when he twisted my neck. Somehow, the twisting of the neck seemed to do some tricks. Whether psychological or not, the pain in my back and hand did subside after this encounter with the chiro.

Still, the chiro told me that a more permanent solution to this spinal problem is to do an operation at the affected spinal chord area. To him, this is a fairly simple "procedure". He indicated that he has been successful in all the cases he has handled so far. I am now considering this procedure if the spinal problem persists.

At the moment, spinal pain is subsiding. Praise the Lord!

Still, I must say to Ah Min: Thanks for bringing me into the world of chiropractic!"

Passing of a Friend - Yogeswaran

When I was scanning my digital photo album, I came across this old university photo which was taken way back in 1973. It reminded me of the passing of a uni friend, a senior and a Christian brother in the 5th Residential College Christian Fellowship.

On 7 Dec 2005, I received an sms from another ex uni-mate from Sarawak, Sun Nan Ping (the chap sitting at my left in the photo). It reads "Sad news, Yoges passed away last night". He died of a blood disorder. He was scheduled to undergo some kind of bone marrow transplant scheduled in February 2006, but God chose to take him earlier.

Being a Malaysian of  Indian ethnicity, his uniqueness was that he had a pair of very neat white teeth over a dark skin background and curly long hair. He was a joker and a caring person. In the photo, I could still remember him sitting on the floor leaning on my feet. There was also a joke about him - When you have a power failure at night, just take him along and he would light up the area with his teeth!

Though he lived a fairly short life, about 56 I think, he did have a great impact on people he came into contact with.

After his funeral on 9 Dec 2005, I received another sms, "The funeral just ended. Beautiful time of celebrating Yoges' life and his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. About 200 people attended".

Christmas 2005

We hosted a small open house after the Christmas Day Service, and it was a lovely gathering filled with laughter and good company. Among our guests were Thomas Chin and his family, accompanied by Joan Chin, who was back from Australia for the holidays.

The Chan Kok Woh family joined us as well and brought along Winnie's aunt and her husband, a former diplomat who once served in Australia. Winnie also brought her sister and brother-in-law, who were home for the holidays from Brisbane, Australia too - her brother-in-law lectures at Southern Cross University.

Just as we were about to wrap up the open house, two carloads of youths unexpectedly arrived. Thankfully, there was still a bit of food left - just enough to welcome them properly. They brought a burst of energy and laughter to the tail end of the gathering and, quite literally, polished off whatever remained on the table!

Our Christmas Tree

Our Christmas tree at the cosy corner of the house.

Another Mini Reunion of Former Uni-mates

Our former uni-mates Wai Suet and Ling King Ngeo visited KK. We had a chance to have a simple breakfast in a coffee shop in Damai Plaza Phase 4 on 17 December 2005 joined by Pastor Lam Kee Hing.

God's Gift to You and Me

This is the picture of the scene of Nativity used in the illusion for the Praise Kids Christmas Party 2005.

Christmas 2005 is Coming

Wow, it's been a long time since I last blogged.

This December has been unusually hectic. With so many outstation assignments and looming deadlines, many would be quick to congratulate us on what appears to be a season of good business fortune - and indeed, we thank God for that.

But beneath the surface, I’ve been quietly battling something else: persistent spinal pain that’s been driving me to the brink. At times, the agony in my back, shoulder, and right arm becomes so intense, I find myself wishing for some magical device that could simply cut the pain away, once and for all.

Thankfully, today has been much better. The pain has subsided significantly, and I know it's no coincidence. I'm deeply grateful for the prayers of loved ones, a high-quality health supplement a friend introduced me to (which I’ve recently started taking), and my wife’s devoted physiotherapy sessions. Together, these have been instrumental in my slow but steady path to recovery.

Just a few days ago, on 15 December, I was stranded at KLIA for six and a half hours - from 3:30pm to 10:00pm - hoping to catch an earlier flight home. The wait was long and exhausting, and the pain made it all the more unbearable. In that moment of struggle, I received a call from Serene. Her timely conversation truly helped lift my spirits and eased the pain, if only for a while. Thank you again, Serene - your kindness made a real difference.

Tomorrow, Praise Kids Church will be celebrating Christmas, and I’ve been roped in to perform an illusion as part of the program. I haven’t done one all year, so this is both a challenge and an opportunity to dust off those skills. I’m still fine-tuning the performance, but by God’s grace, I pray it will make a meaningful impact on the children - more than just entertainment, but a message they can take to heart.

By the way, since 5 December, Paul has been undergoing his industrial training at our firm’s condominium project site located just off Jalan Damai, conveniently close to our office. From what I can see, he seems to be enjoying the experience and is steadily getting a hands-on feel for the nitty-gritty of civil and structural engineering. It’s one thing to study the theories in a classroom - but quite another to witness and participate in the real-world challenges and practicalities of a construction site. I believe this exposure will serve him well in the journey ahead.

The Wise Sage

While I was driving to work this afternoon, I heard a good illustration from the radio talk show by a lady in the radio station.

There was this couple who has been arguing and quarrelling until they decided to seek advice from one Chinese Sage. The husband went first and told his side of the story to the Sage and emphasizing that he was right and the wife was wrong. After listening, the Sage finally said, "You are right!".

The next day, it was the wife's turn. She told her side of the story and of course telling the Sage that she was right and the husband was wrong. At the end, the Sage too said, "You are right!".

When she went back and discussed the outcome of their consultation, they were surprised to discover that the Sage told each the same answer : "You are right!".

They decided to confront the Sage and said, "How can it be possible that each one of us is right at the same time. There must be one of us who is in the wrong. The Sage said, "You are right!".

I think that this is a good story for premarital counselling.

PM lost his Beloved Wife

Our PM's wife Endon passed away unexpectedly on 20 Oct 2005. Most Malaysians thought that she was on her way to recovery after her recent treatment in USA. Somehow, her relapse of breast cancer was worse than most of us thought.

The perception of most Malaysians towards Badawi and Endon was that they were very loving couple. It was said that whenever the PM went to work every morning, he would give the wife a peck on the cheek or yell to the wife if she was upstairs telling her that he was leaving for work. Truly a loving couple! A good leadership by example as far as demonstration of a loving couple was concerned.

After she was buried, he went to her grave everyday non-stop for three days. I was a bit worried that he would be too distraught or heart-broken to continue ruling the nation. I remember one Israelite PM by the name of Menachem Begin who totally lost the will to rule and to live after the wife died. In fact, he died not long after the wife passed away. Hopefully, Abdullah could survive this crisis and persevere on.

Talking about cancer, I remember this friend of mine who is in his early 40's who told me around late July this year of his persistent discomfort in his stomach. At that time, he also told me of the lady who had her stomach removed because of cancer. She didn't survived long and passed away in August. I blogged about her story in my August 6 blog (Read here). Then two week ago, I heard from my sister that another friend of mine had just got his colon removed because of colon cancer. That was shocking news. It did come to him as a great shock. The wife is now expecting their 2nd child. They have 2 more kids with the older one only aged 4.

This cancer thing has caused untold sorrow and distress to many many families. In this case, I offer my prayer that God would be merciful to him and his family and that he would prevail over this predicament.

David & Goliath

This afternoon, my cousin from Kota Belud came to my office to deliver a giant ostrich egg to me. He had earlier known that I have an interest to acquire an ostrich egg. He took the trouble to go to the Kota Belud Ostrich Farm to get this egg for me. What a nice cousin!

Just look at the sheer size! I was told that an ostrich egg is equivalent to 30 chicken eggs! A case of Goliath v David.

Now, we are left with the dilemma of what to do with this giant egg. Imagine you crack one is like cracking 30 chicken eggs. Probably, we will have an ostrich egg bonanza. A cake made with ostrich egg; scrambled ostrich egg; omelette ostrich egg: custard ostrich egg..... and the list is still being added on.

In fact, I was thinking of waiting for Paul to come back and join us to feast this ostrich egg bonaza. My cousin however said that the egg may not be able to wait that long. Too bad Paul!

The other thing I have to worry now is how to get the content out and yet keep the giant shell intact. My cousin told me to chisel a little hole at one end. That might not be easy for a first timer. Well, we will keep you informed after the feast.

Romantic Quotable Quotes

I’ve always been fascinated by people who have a way with words - those who can effortlessly craft inspiring phrases or memorable quotes that strike a chord deep within.

One such line that has always stuck with me is from the rather quirky character played by Jack Nicholson in As Good As It Gets: “You make me want to be a better man.”

Simple, heartfelt, and unforgettable. It’s amazing how a single sentence can carry so much emotional weight and linger in our minds for years.

The other night, while watching a Korean drama, I came across another gem of a quote that really stood out. Just after a beautiful wedding scene, the bride turned to her new husband and asked, “Will you still love me just as much when I’m an old granny with a head full of white hair?”

His reply was both unexpected and touching: “My love for you now is at its minimum, but by the time you’re a grand old granny, it will be at its maximum.”

Now, that’s a romantic quote worth remembering - don’t you think?

These past three nights, my wife has been away at a seminar in Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai. Despite her packed schedule, she still came home in between to prepare special dinners for me. I was honestly lost for words. But I did manage to say, from the bottom of my heart, “You make me want to be a better husband.”

That, I suppose, is my own little quotable quote.

Shanghai Experience

I was in Shanghai for three days, though in reality, I only managed to squeeze in about five hours of sightseeing - all at night. Still, I made the most of it by visiting two of the city’s most iconic attractions: Nanjing Pedestrian Walk and the famous Shanghai Bund.

Despite the short stay, I thoroughly enjoyed the culinary experiences my friends in Shanghai treated me to. From the legendary Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) to Shanghai-style dumpling noodles, each meal was a delight. One memorable highlight was during our farewell lunch, when I got to savour the so-called "Tian Xia Di Yi Bao" ("The World's No. 1 Bun") at the second-largest restaurant in Shanghai. I must have enjoyed it a little too much - my friend noticed and generously ordered a dozen for me to bring home to Sabah, so my wife could have a taste of authentic Shanghai cuisine too.

Speaking of the restaurant - it was massive by any standard, especially compared to what we’re used to in Sabah. It could accommodate up to 4,000 diners and boasted an additional 120 VIP rooms!

As my friend and I strolled along Nanjing Pedestrian Walk that evening, something unexpected happened. I felt a tap on my shoulder and turned to see two girls, probably around 17 or 18, claiming they hadn’t eaten in a while and asking for money. But it quickly became apparent that they weren’t beggars - they were sex workers. Further down the same walkway, a schoolboy-looking lad bumped into my friend and casually asked, “Do you want massage?” I couldn’t help but think he might have been a young pimp trying to promote his "classmates" or someone else in his circle. That, too, is part of the reality of modern Shanghai - vibrant and dazzling on the surface, but with shadows just beneath.

On my way back to Pudong Airport, I made it a point to experience the famous Shanghai Maglev Train. Traveling at a top speed of 400 km/h, it was a thrilling, smooth, and futuristic ride. For just RMB 40, it was absolutely worth every cent - a perfect high-speed ending to my whirlwind Shanghai trip.

Weren't We Young Then

Back then in 1973. Weren't we young then! Recognize any of us?

From left: Joseph Loy Wei Choo, Peter Lai Kui Len, Me, Joyce Ding (Mrs. Lai), Rita, Lim Heng Seng. Photo taken at the steps by the quadrangle just outside the dining hall of the 5th Residential College of University of Malaya.

Cheers to 32 Years Friendship

Cheers to 32 years of friendship.

From left: Penny Lim, Joyce Ding (Mrs. Lai), Peter Lai, Jenny Wee, Teoh Guek Yean, Mary Ooi. Photo taken at the residence of Peter Lai.

32 Years Friendship

They are some of our uni-mates whom we got to know when I first entered MU in 1973. The strong bond of friendship developed because of the 5th College Christian Fellowship which we all joined back then. This is how we look some 32 years later.

Spaghetti for Dinner

Spaghetti for dinner. Wished you could join us. Doesn't it look yummy !

Little Chair Big Elephant

Funny pic I'll use for my Praise Kids object lesson.

A Person of Immense Faith

Thursday, 4 August, I attended the funeral service of a church friend whom I knew since the late 60’s during the youth days. She died of stomach cancer. At the time of her death, she had undergone two operations to have her stomach totally removed.

In the eulogy delivered by her sister, she was quoted to have said at her final moment of her life, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award me on that day”. She was also quoted to have said, “Whatever path the Lord wants me to take, I would take it faithfully”. She also planned her funeral before she died.

This is truly a person of immense faith.

Fulfilling Unfulfilled Dream

Last Sunday, we said farewell to Oliver Chew. He would be leaving the next day to KL for a 5-year course in Medicine in IMU. His determination to go through another 5 years of study in a university is unbelievable. He had earlier completed a 4-year course in UMS for a BSc in Chemistry and then worked for more than a year. By the time he finished medical school, he will be at least thirty years old.

His reason for doing this is that he has always wanted to be a doctor. He is doing it to fulfil an unfulfilled dream!

Report About Melbourne from Sabah Connection

Last night in Tong Hing Supermart, I saw a girl whom I was very sure I met somewhere before. I just couldn't recall. Finally, she came over and said, "Uncle, Auntie, remember me, Loy". In that instance, I remember.

She told us she has a wonderful time in Melbourne spending one month there. She met up with Sam, Paul and Julius. She has great admiration for Melbourne. According to her, that's the best place she has ever been. Her comment: It's a place where anything you want is available and things are fresh.

We'll be there one day of course not forgetting Newcastle. That's also a must for us to go. Sydney as well. Now, we'll have better reason to go. Serene and MH will be there soon.

The Girls are Missing Sam

This afternoon, I went to Innotech to look up for Ar. Shim to sign some Forms for our house OC. It has been quite awhile since we last met. His very first statement was "Hey, how is Sam, when is he coming back? All the girls in the office are missing him, the handsome lad!".

Wow, that cool guy is hot even for such a short stint !

Guggenhein

The other night, National Geographic showed this unique architecture in the Mega structure series. The Guggenhein by Frank Gehry. The aesthetic is truly one of the kind. The structural framing is also the first in the world if I am not wrong. No one single major supporting structural member is the same. Each is different to match the contour and shape. According to the commentator, this building could not have been built 20 years ago due to the lack of powerful computer to do the analysis, design and drafting.

Businessman

We have a client who truly redefines what it means to be a businessman. While most entrepreneurs build businesses around market demand, this man builds his business around problems.

Take, for example, a stretch of riverbank suffering from erosion. Most people would look at it and assume it’s the government's responsibility to fix. But not him. He sees it as an opportunity. He identifies the issue, conceptualizes a solution, and takes the initiative to develop both technical and financial proposals. Then, he approaches the right authorities to present his plan and persuades the paymaster - typically the government - to accept it. Once approved, he secures a contract. That’s his business model.

Fortunately for us, we get to work alongside him as his consultant. Our role is to help articulate his ideas clearly and professionally in the form of proposals that can stand up to scrutiny.

This kind of business, however, is not for the impatient. The process from idea to contract can be long and winding - sometimes taking three years or more. But he's undeterred.

What sets him apart is his ability to turn a problem into a business opportunity. And while it may still ultimately be driven by demand - in this case, the urgent need to prevent irreversible damage to the riverbank - it’s his initiative, foresight, and persistence that make the difference.

Cutting Chilli

The other Sunday morning. we drove north to Kota Belud again. My wife finally got her nyiru. We bought more than 2 Kg of crabs (12 nos in all), tapioca and 1/2 kg of green chilli.

I spent the afternoon preparing the crabs and cutting up the green chili for the pickled chili. I cut the chilli without any protective glove and just bare hands. At that time, hardly any hot feeling. But by the time I finished, the hot sensation started to kick in and persisted for the rest of the day. Wow..........not a nice feeling. A good lesson to learn. Never cut a lot of chili without some kind of protection to your bare hands!

Mini Reunion Breakfast

Breakfast at the Side Porch just before MH and Serene left to catch the flight at 7.50am on 1 July 2005

Submersible Bridge

Submersible bridge across upstream of Padas River. 36 nos. 1.4m dia pipe culvert linked together. Another civil engineering feat!

Mini Reunion Dinner

Mini reunion meal with MH and Serene. MH couldn't be in because he was the cameraman !