Cliques

Looking at my Praise Kids of Primary 6, somehow, girls seem more prone to cliques - 2, 2 and 1 lone ranger. The boys on the other hand seem to get along well!

Reunion of Former Colleagues After A Lapse of 9 Years

Just back from a reunion lunch with some ex-Permodalan Bumiputra Sabah staff. This Indian lady who used to be the company librarian married an Aussie and migrated to Australia in 1985. I am not sure whether she married first then migrated or the other way round. 

The last reunion was way back in 1997. This time, the number of attendees has dwindled. May be it's because of too short notice or difficulty to locate some of the staff. Among the group, one is now an Assistant Minister.

This Indian lady who now resides in Perth is now begging to have the next reunion in Perth Australia and she was teasing the organizer to start cracking and hopefully it's not another 9 years later.

I told her that I would have no problem going there because my daughter and son-in-law would be in Perth.

Her address in Perth is 18, Watsonia Road, Gooseberry Hill, WA 6076 Australia. Ph: (61-8)94544632. The couple is Satwant & Doug Bridson. Email : satwantdoug@hotmail.com.

I put this down just in case I lose the name card:)

Sex in the minds of 11+ Years

This morning in my Primary 6 Praise Kids Class, one boy just posed a casual question to me  - "How many children do you have ?"

"Three". To my surprise, his response was like this:
"So, you must have sex at least three times".

Wow, I was caught a bit off guard. In order not to shut off such inquisitive minds, I asked him:
"Where do you learn about sex education ?"
"Encyclopaedia"
"What other things do you know about sex ?"
" Boys have sperms but girls don't have. You need sperms to have baby".

I was amazed that issue concerning sex has already gotten into the minds of an 11 years old. Or was it always like this? Or that kids in the older days were not so daring to express and to desire to learn about this subject.

I wonder whether our boys had ever gotten this issue into their minds back when they were 11 or 12. But there is no denying that TV, internet and the media have contributed to the "openness" of these young minds. Well, it's important that they be properly guided so that this "openness" would not be abused.

Dai Yi Long

Every now and then, my car wipers would be stuck with Ah Long's name cards. At other times, they just dump a few into the mail box. Some opt to throw them into your house compound, squeeze them through the gap under your office door or clip them together with your electricity bill. Loan sharking by these dai yi long seem to be the in thing business in KK nowadays.

Just the other day, I got a call from one claiming to be from Citibank. He said his bank is also offering pre-approved loan of RM18,000.00 to me. Just say yes in the phone and he would arrange to transfer the money into my account. I flatly said no.

I was thinking: Is bank also into dai yi long business!

To The Future Architect

I bumped into Ar. Paul Lau yesterday at the KKIA on my way to Tawau. He was on his way back from Sandakan. The first he said to me was:

" When is Sam coming back ?"
" Should be end of the year"
" Ask him to come and join me, he is smart and a good architect"

I was in cloud nine when I heard it. I just could not imagine the little spider boy who used to hang upside down in the swing in Foh Sang is destined for architecture! :)

Chinglish

 

A friend of mine sent me this email.

 

"Ah Lek was asked to make a sentence using 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 and 10. Not only did he do it 1 to 10, he did it again from 10 back to 1. This is what he came up with...

 

1 day I go 2 climb up a 3 outside a house to peep. But the couple saw me, so I panic and 4 down. The man rush out and wanted to 5 with me. I run until I fall 6 and throw up. So I go into 7 eleven and grab some 8 to throw at him. Then I took a 9 and try to stab him. 10 God he run away.

 

So, I put the 9 back and pay for the 8 and left 7 eleven. Next day, I call my boss and say I am 6. He said 5, tomorrow also no need to come back 4 work. He also asks me to climb a 3 and jump down. I don't understand, I am so nice 2 him but I don't know what he 1".

Marital Health of a Nation

Yesterday, I, Joseph and Rev. Lee attended a Prepare-Enrich Programme at Beverly Hotel. This is a government-sponsored seminar to train facilitators to help couples to build stronger marriages and stronger relationship.

We were told that divorce rate for non- Muslims in Malaysia has increased from 2.63% in 2000 to 5.20% in 2003. Not too bad but the rising trend is no good. For Muslims, it is worse in the range of 10%-11%.

But the most shocking news is that divorce rate in Taiwan is even higher than in the US. 51% in Taiwan against 50% in US. Imagine, one in two marriages would fail. It was said that when you meet someone after a long break, the common thing to say is not "How are you ?" but rather " Are you separated?". That's sad.

Malaysia is doing the right thing by encouraging pre-marital couples to go through pre-marital counselling and married couples to go through marriage enrich seminar.

The health of a nation is very much dependent on the health of marriages of the people.

You Say Vs God Says

I found this in an email sent by Sharon Lai:

You say: "It's impossible". God says:All things are possible (Luke 18:27)
You say: "I'm too tired". God says: I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: "Nobody really loves me". God says: I love you (John 3:16 & John 3:34 )
You say: "I can't go on". God says: My grace is sufficient (II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: "I can't figure things out". God says: I will direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5-6)
You say: "I can't do it". God says: You can do all things (Philippians 4:13)
You say: "I'm not able". God says: I am able (II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: "It's not worth it". God says:It will be worth it (Roman 8:28 )
You say: "I can't forgive myself". God says: I Forgive you (I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: "I can't manage". God says: I will supply all your needs (Philippians 4:19)
You say: "I'm afraid". God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear (II Timothy 1:7)
You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated". God says: Cast all your cares on ME (I Peter 5:7)
You say: "I'm not smart enough". God says: I give you wisdom (I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: "I feel all alone". God says: I will never leave you or forsake you

Home Alone

I have been “home alone” since yesterday, and it looks like this will continue until Friday. The new Timbalan at the Gaya Teachers' Training Institute, my wife has been away to Negeri Sembilan for her very first official assignment - a course on the selection process for new applicants to be enrolled in teachers’ training institutes across Malaysia.

Knowing how hectic her schedule is going to be once she returns, I am seriously toying with the idea of drafting an official-looking “Form” that I would need to submit every time I want to make an appointment with her. Who knows, it might just help me secure a slot in her busy calendar! Hahaha.

Farewell to A Beloved Principal of SMK St. Mary, Limbahau, Papar

Last Saturday afternoon, I had the honour of attending a Farewell Lunch at the Promenade Hotel, organised by the School Board, teaching staff, and supporting staff of SMK St. Mary, Papar, in honour of their beloved Principal. I was there - courtesy of the outgoing Principal, my wife 🙂.

It was clear to me that this Principal is deeply cherished by her school community. Their heartfelt appreciation was beautifully expressed through touching citations, a carefully prepared video montage, and an abundance of meaningful gifts. Many tried to put on brave faces, but the emotions in the room could not be hidden - tears welled up in the eyes of both teachers and staff, a true testament to the bond they shared with her.

The most moving moment for me was at the very end, when the Principal and her husband (once again, thanks to my wife for including me) stood at the exit to personally bid farewell to each and every one of them. That simple but profound gesture spoke volumes of her humility and love. I must admit, I had to try very hard to hold back my own emotions.

Just a day earlier, the entire school had organised a farewell assembly for her. From the photographs I later saw, it was evident that the students and teachers alike were overcome with emotions - tears flowed freely, marking the end of a meaningful chapter in the life of the school.

My conclusion is simple: she made a difference. A real, significant difference in the lives of many in Papar. And I feel proud to have, in some way, been part of the journey that shaped this remarkable Principal. Bravo!

Of course, life moves forward, as it always does. But this farewell marks not an end, only the beginning of another chapter waiting to be written.

The Day Lyanna Tew is Called Mrs Hew

What do I remember about this wedding? The MC of the wedding banquet asked a question each to the bride and groom. Name 5 things why you choose your partner.

Groom : I love her from head to toe. I love her because she accepted me in spite of my short comings.

Bride: He is liangchai, loving, kind, patient and (can't remember the last attribute she said.)

Sydney Blue Mountain Then (1993) and Now (2006)

1993

2006

1993

2006

Sydney 1993

The kids of the Lee family are having a reunion in Sydney this coming weeks.

 

As a family, we last set foot on this location way back in August 1993. Wow, that's almost 13 years ago. How time flies. They would see Sydney with a different perspective now that they have a new sets of people around them. :)

Father's Day 2006

The night before Father’s Day, I received a delightful surprise - a special email all the way from Australia with an invitation to high tea at a local hotel. Thanks to Serene and MH for their thoughtfulness!

When we arrived at the restaurant, we were warmly ushered to a beautifully prepared table awaiting us. With a “crowd” of just two, the celebration was intimate yet meaningful. We took our time, pacing ourselves carefully so we could savour every treat displayed before us.

On Father’s Day itself, I had the joy of chatting with both the boys. The world truly feels smaller now - with SMS, email, Skype, and phone calls - distance hardly diminishes the warmth of family connections. This year’s Father’s Day was no exception; the miles between us could not take away from the closeness we felt as a family.

To crown it all, I also received a touching message from a close friend that day:

"Of all the vocations that men may pursue in this life, no vocation is fraught with as much responsibility and attended with as much boundless opportunity as the great calling of husband and father."

I couldn’t agree more. I cherish every minute of this vocation - and count it one of life’s greatest blessings.

Scenic Bridge/Crooked Bridge

When I read about MH and Serene's trip down south and was told of the scenic railway and scenic cable car, I was reminded of our proposed Scenic Bridge in JB which some refer to as the Crooked Bridge. Fortunately, this has been scrapped. It could have been another great civil and structural engineering feat or architectural wonder. But then, the damage to the future generation probably will far outweigh the benefits that can be derived.

How is one to explain such a weird bridge design if a child is to ask the parents for an explanation. As I see it, It would reflect none of the cooperative spirit between two neighbouring countries that we so often boast about in all the political talk. It would also reflect the pursuit of one's personal agenda irrespective of what the other say and feel. It is a lasting symbol of arrogance and non-cooperation in short.

Thank God, beside the millions of Ringgit saved, many Malaysians would not have to face the eternal consequence of an unwise move.

Tip of Borneo

Finally, we made it to the Tip of Borneo on 30 May 2006. This reminded me of our trip to Agusta, the Southern Most Tip of Australia. Unlike Agusta, there is something lacking here. Yes I mean the light house. It would be nice to have one. The bare and worn-out massive rocks do remind us of the great forces of Sulu Sea and the South China Sea ravaging this tiny corner on earth.

 

Harvest Festival 2006

My wife, who is the school principal of SMK St. Mary Papar, is occasionally invited to attend functions outside of her school duties.

SMK St. Mary, located along Jalan Limbahau, falls within the constituency of Papar. Naturally, she would be invited to community events such as the Pesta Kaamatan (Harvest Festival), organized by the KDCA Pantai Manis Branch. Thanks to her courtesy, I had the privilege of accompanying her to this particular celebration. It was, in fact, my very first experience attending a Pesta Kaamatan.

Upon our arrival, we were warmly greeted by the Branch Chairman, Johnny Mositun - a familiar figure in Sabah politics. A former State Assemblyman during the PBS administration, he now serves as the Youth Chief and Information Chief of PBS. (He’s the gentleman wearing the traditional Kadazan-Dusun headgear in the photograph.) Coincidentally, he was also the contractor responsible for constructing one of the new school blocks at SMK St. Mary Papar. I found him to be a genuinely pleasant, approachable, and down-to-earth person.

The afternoon grew even more memorable when I was given the rare honor of being photographed with none other than the former Chief Minister of Sabah, Datuk Joseph Pairin Kitingan, who was also at the function. It was an unforgettable moment, adding a special touch to an already meaningful occasion.

1st left: Johnny Mositun,
2nd left: Datuk Joseph Pairin Kitingan.

This is One You Will Smile

Our greatest natural resource...........................Our youth

The greatest "shot in the arm"..........................Encouragement

The greatest problem to overcome...................Fear
The most destructive habit................................Worry
The greatest joy...................................................Giving
The greatest loss.....................................Loss of self-respect
The most satisfying work...................................Helping
The ugliest personality trait...............................Selfishness
The most endangered species..................Dedicated leaders
The most effective sleeping pill..........................Peace of mind
The most crippling failure disease.....................Excuses
The most powerful force in life...........................Love
The most dangerous pariah................................A gossiper
The world's most incredible computer..............The brain
The worst thing to be without.............................Hope
The deadliest weapon...........................................Tongue
The two most power-filled words......................"I Can"
The greatest asset..................................................Faith
The most worthless emotion................................Self pity
The most beautiful attire......................................Smile
The most prized possession..................................Integrity
The most powerful channel of communication...Prayer
The most contagious spirit....................................Enthusiasm

I am Not Stupid 2

I have been going around quite a number of the video shops looking for the authentic non-pirated copy of "I am Not Stupid 2". Somehow, I had not been successful. This morning, My wife and I were in a Coffee Shop in old Inanam having kon low mee breakfast. A peddler came along and offered a stack of pirated DVD's to us. It has not been my habit to look at these CD's or DVD's because it's not my policy to buy these pirated stuff. Somehow this time, I scanned and I found one and only one copy of "I am Not Stupid 2" inside the stake. After much struggle, I bought it.

It turned out, this 2nd series of "I am Not Stupid" is really a very moving movie. I found the part when the father pleading with the school principal at his dead bed for a 2nd chance to be given to his son to go back to study most touching. His son was earlier expelled for beating up a teacher.

I must confess, Mediacorp does produce good movies!

By the way, we recently bought a DVD/CD/MP3 player. Reason: To play the DVD on "The Da Vinci Code - Fact or Fiction" in the Cell meeting in our house.

Jesselton Condominium

Sam, does this look familiar? This project was finally launched in the local newspaper on 12 May 2006.

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The following is added on 5 September 2025:

This 15-storey condominium completed in 2009 is considered one of the earliest condominium projects in Kota Kinabalu. Situated adjacent to Taman Kim Leng, where I once stayed, it offers views over Teluk Likas Bay and Mount Kinabalu for those facing the east.

Google photo of the finished condominium.