Oh, the Places You'll Go!
Congratulations!
Today is your day.
You're off to Great Places!
You're off and away!
You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes
You can steer yourself
any direction you choose.
You're on your own. And you know what you know.
And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go.
You'll look up and down streets. Look 'em over with care.
About some you will say, "I don't choose to go there."
With your head full of brains and your shoes full of feet,
you're too smart to go down any not-so-good street.
And you may not find any
you'll want to go down.
In that case, of course,
you'll head straight out of town.
It's opener there
in the wide open air.
Out there things can happen
and frequently do
to people as brainy
and footsy as you.
And when things start to happen,
don't worry. Don't stew.
Just go right along.
You'll start happening too.
OH!
THE PLACES YOU'LL GO!
You'll be on your way up!
You'll be seeing great sights!
You'll join the high fliers
who soar to high heights.
You won't lag behind, because you'll have the speed.
You'll pass the whole gang and you'll soon take the lead.
Wherever you fly, you'll be the best of the best.
Wherever you go, you will top all the rest.
Except when you don' t
Because, sometimes, you won't.
I'm sorry to say so
but, sadly, it's true
and Hang-ups
can happen to you.
You can get all hung up
in a prickle-ly perch.
And your gang will fly on.
You'll be left in a Lurch.
You'll come down from the Lurch
with an unpleasant bump.
And the chances are, then,
that you'll be in a Slump.
And when you're in a Slump,
you're not in for much fun.
Un-slumping yourself
is not easily done.
You will come to a place where the streets are not marked.
Some windows are lighted. But mostly they're darked.
A place you could sprain both you elbow and chin!
Do you dare to stay out? Do you dare to go in?
How much can you lose? How much can you win?
And IF you go in, should you turn left or right...
or right-and-three-quarters? Or, maybe, not quite?
Or go around back and sneak in from behind?
Simple it's not, I'm afraid you will find,
for a mind-maker-upper to make up his mind.
You can get so confused
that you'll start in to race
down long wiggled roads at a break-necking pace
and grind on for miles across weirdish wild space,
headed, I fear, toward a most useless place.
The Waiting Place...
...for people just waiting.
Waiting for a train to go
or a bus to come, or a plane to go
or the mail to come, or the rain to go
or the phone to ring, or the snow to snow
or waiting around for a Yes or a No
or waiting for their hair to grow.
Everyone is just waiting.
Waiting for the fish to bite
or waiting for wind to fly a kite
or waiting around for Friday night
or waiting, perhaps, for their Uncle Jake
or a pot to boil, or a Better Break
or a sting of pearls, or a pair of pants
or a wig with curls, or Another Chance.
Everyone is just waiting.
NO!
That's not for you!
Somehow you'll escape
all that waiting and staying.
You'll find the bright places
where Boom Bands are playing.
With banner flip-flapping,
once more you'll ride high!
Ready for anything under the sky.
Ready because you're that kind of a guy!
Oh, the places you'll go! There is fun to be done!
There are points to be scored. there are games to be won.
And the magical things you can do with that ball
will make you the winning-est winner of all.
Fame! You'll be famous as famous can be,
with the whole wide world watching you win on TV.
Except when they don't.
Because, sometimes, they won't.
I'm afraid that some times
you'll play lonely games too.
Games you can't win
'cause you'll play against you.
All Alone!
Whether you like it or not,
Alone will be something
you'll be quite a lot.
And when you're alone, there's a very good chance
you'll meet things that scare you right out of your pants.
There are some, down the road between hither and yon,
that can scare you so much you won't want to go on.
But on you will go
though the weather be foul
On you will go
though your enemies prowl
On you will go
though the Hakken-Kraks howl
Onward up many
a frightening creek,
though your arms may get sore
and your sneakers may leak.
On and on you will hike
and I know you'll hike far
and face up to your problems
whatever they are.
You'll get mixed up, of course,
as you already know.
You'll get mixed up
with many strange birds as you go.
So be sure when you step.
Step with care and great tact
and remember that Life's
a Great Balancing Act.
Just never forget to be dexterous and deft.
And never mix up your right foot with your left.
And will you succeed?
Yes! You will, indeed!
(98 and 3 / 4 percent guaranteed.)
KID, YOU'LL MOVE MOUNTAINS!
So...
be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray
or Mordecai Ali Van Allen O'Shea,
you're off to Great Places!
Today is your day!
Your mountain is waiting.
So...get on your way!
---Dr. Seuss
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Real Ghostly Encounters in NS
Encounter 2: During OCS (Jan 1998) Paula Tekong
I remembered I was in my service term just fresh into OCS. We went to Pulau Tekong for an overnight exercise. It was to train us in topology to prepare us for Jungle Training in 2 months time. The exercise was simple, each section of 7 men was to find their way around the island with a map and a compass. There were several checkpoints and each checkpoint has to be signed before we proceeded on to the next. There was a fixed route to take.
We proceeded on with the day session, everything went well from morning and we were progressing very well as a section. It was around 4pm and we were proceeding on to our last checkpoint for the day. I remembered it was checkpoint Delta (near a Heli Evac point) which was a deep forested area. As I was holding on to the signal set, I was tasked by my Section IC to stay put with another guy at a cross road while the others proceeded on to the checkpoint 1km away. I noticed the air around us was very still, no a single breeze, it was damp and eerie. As the area was forested, the afternoon sun and trees created a shadowy blanket over us. I was barely chatting with the other guy for 10mins when suddenly we heard someone screamed "Nah Beh!!!!!! ARRrrghhhh!!! Kan Ni Nah!!!". Then we saw our Section IC running towards us shouting vulgarities with the other 4 guys running after him. We just stood there as he ran past us...he looked spooked, lost, frightened. We asked one of the guys who stopped while the rest chased after him about what happened, he said the IC tore up our map and ran after seeing the checkpoint (which was an old tree). Shit, we were in deep shit because he had torn a RESTICTED MAP which was supposed to be returned. Losing that map or destroying that resulted in the whole team having to serve extra.
We decided to give chase for less than 300m when we noticed the whole group surround the IC. The section IC had fainted. I radio-ed for help and we waited until the safety officer arrived to bring him back to Tekong Camp Sick Bay. The rest of us were told to continue with a new map and to re-group before 2000hrs at the camp site.
This guy called Kang who was the 2IC led us to find the night checkpoint. It was already in the evening and Tekong was dark. Kang led us to this road with 2 paths, 1 path was open and the other path was blocked by branches and creepers. Any logical guy would have taken the 1st path (anyone using this road to place a checkpoint would have disturbed the branches and creepers, the 2nd path looked undisturbed), Kang took his parang and started bashing. It was getting dark and we lit our salem stick and poured the liquid into straws to place behind our helmets before we proceeded in. By the time we prepared to move into the path, dark fell and we visibility was very bad. We were each guided by the salem straw on the helmet of the person infront of us. We bashed in and grumbled why Kang chose this bloody path.
We have been bashing for 20mins when suddenly Kang started to shout our names loudly in the forest. (It was taboo to call someone's name at night especially in the forest and we made an agreement to call each other by numbers). I remembered I was the 2nd last guy from the back and the guy behind me was holding tightly to my radio set. Kang shouted numbered off (we were supposed to make sure everyone is hear so we called out our numbers starting from the last guy). I felt a tug at my radio as the guy behind me shouted '7', I followed by shouting '6'. Then guy 7 whispered to me that he heard someone behind him whispering '8'. I felt my hair stand....why all this suay things was happening to our section.
I tried to ignore and continued following the others infront. We reached an open area finally and everyone was basically pissed at Kang for leading us into this creepy path. We walked as a section along this open area when I noticed at the corner of my eyes that there were dark shadows or silhouettes of people squatting beside our path. I thought the others noticed so I told myself it might be "commandos" who were conducting training. I told the guy infront of me if he had seen because I was sure there was more than 2 sections of these "commandos" not squatting beside us as we walked past them. He replied..."will you shut up you chee bye, I never see anything so stop telling me". I was freaked out.....if he hasn't seen it, then what the hell did I see then?
By the time we found the checkpoint and reach the camp site, we were the last section to arrive. All of us were shagged out. I asked my instructor if there were any other units training today and he replied.."yes". I was relieved and thought nothing of my encounter.
2 weeks after the training one night during the night snack, my instructor revealed to us that there were no units training there. What we experienced was nothing new as other previous batches of trainees have had their encounter. The reason why he didn't mention to us was that he didn't want us spooked.
For once, I appreciated, We all appreciated, what he did.
I remembered I was in my service term just fresh into OCS. We went to Pulau Tekong for an overnight exercise. It was to train us in topology to prepare us for Jungle Training in 2 months time. The exercise was simple, each section of 7 men was to find their way around the island with a map and a compass. There were several checkpoints and each checkpoint has to be signed before we proceeded on to the next. There was a fixed route to take.
We proceeded on with the day session, everything went well from morning and we were progressing very well as a section. It was around 4pm and we were proceeding on to our last checkpoint for the day. I remembered it was checkpoint Delta (near a Heli Evac point) which was a deep forested area. As I was holding on to the signal set, I was tasked by my Section IC to stay put with another guy at a cross road while the others proceeded on to the checkpoint 1km away. I noticed the air around us was very still, no a single breeze, it was damp and eerie. As the area was forested, the afternoon sun and trees created a shadowy blanket over us. I was barely chatting with the other guy for 10mins when suddenly we heard someone screamed "Nah Beh!!!!!! ARRrrghhhh!!! Kan Ni Nah!!!". Then we saw our Section IC running towards us shouting vulgarities with the other 4 guys running after him. We just stood there as he ran past us...he looked spooked, lost, frightened. We asked one of the guys who stopped while the rest chased after him about what happened, he said the IC tore up our map and ran after seeing the checkpoint (which was an old tree). Shit, we were in deep shit because he had torn a RESTICTED MAP which was supposed to be returned. Losing that map or destroying that resulted in the whole team having to serve extra.
We decided to give chase for less than 300m when we noticed the whole group surround the IC. The section IC had fainted. I radio-ed for help and we waited until the safety officer arrived to bring him back to Tekong Camp Sick Bay. The rest of us were told to continue with a new map and to re-group before 2000hrs at the camp site.
This guy called Kang who was the 2IC led us to find the night checkpoint. It was already in the evening and Tekong was dark. Kang led us to this road with 2 paths, 1 path was open and the other path was blocked by branches and creepers. Any logical guy would have taken the 1st path (anyone using this road to place a checkpoint would have disturbed the branches and creepers, the 2nd path looked undisturbed), Kang took his parang and started bashing. It was getting dark and we lit our salem stick and poured the liquid into straws to place behind our helmets before we proceeded in. By the time we prepared to move into the path, dark fell and we visibility was very bad. We were each guided by the salem straw on the helmet of the person infront of us. We bashed in and grumbled why Kang chose this bloody path.
We have been bashing for 20mins when suddenly Kang started to shout our names loudly in the forest. (It was taboo to call someone's name at night especially in the forest and we made an agreement to call each other by numbers). I remembered I was the 2nd last guy from the back and the guy behind me was holding tightly to my radio set. Kang shouted numbered off (we were supposed to make sure everyone is hear so we called out our numbers starting from the last guy). I felt a tug at my radio as the guy behind me shouted '7', I followed by shouting '6'. Then guy 7 whispered to me that he heard someone behind him whispering '8'. I felt my hair stand....why all this suay things was happening to our section.
I tried to ignore and continued following the others infront. We reached an open area finally and everyone was basically pissed at Kang for leading us into this creepy path. We walked as a section along this open area when I noticed at the corner of my eyes that there were dark shadows or silhouettes of people squatting beside our path. I thought the others noticed so I told myself it might be "commandos" who were conducting training. I told the guy infront of me if he had seen because I was sure there was more than 2 sections of these "commandos" not squatting beside us as we walked past them. He replied..."will you shut up you chee bye, I never see anything so stop telling me". I was freaked out.....if he hasn't seen it, then what the hell did I see then?
By the time we found the checkpoint and reach the camp site, we were the last section to arrive. All of us were shagged out. I asked my instructor if there were any other units training today and he replied.."yes". I was relieved and thought nothing of my encounter.
2 weeks after the training one night during the night snack, my instructor revealed to us that there were no units training there. What we experienced was nothing new as other previous batches of trainees have had their encounter. The reason why he didn't mention to us was that he didn't want us spooked.
For once, I appreciated, We all appreciated, what he did.
Real Ghostly Encounters in NS
Well, I remember all ghostly encounters very clear and I'am glad I'am still in one piece. Over my past 2.5 years I've had quite a few. But after NS, I am happy to say that all these encounters have stopped. Probably NS was a time when I was at the lowest point of my life when it comes to physical and mental condition. Which was why there is a tendancy that we are proned to having that kind of experience with the 3rd kind.
Encounter 1: During BMT (Aug'97)
I was under-going my 2nd month, having failed IPPT again and again, I was one of the few guys who had to continue to stay in camp while some of those who passed could take a 1 week break. I remembered there were only 4 guys in my bunk during a Thursday night. It was also the start of the Hungry Ghost festival or 7th month. We were already quite spooked by all the ghost stories which were told to us by those who were booking out (bunch of assholes wanted to make life more miserable while they have a good time with their families).
I remembered we just finished a whole day of RT training (Remedial Physical Training) by the PTI (Physical Training Instructor) and we had an early night. The only entertainment we had was my portable hi-fi which we played Jacky Chueng's CD every night. It was my only CD which I brought in and we played this CD on repeat mode every night.
As usual, Jacky was crooning his songs when we fell asleep. That night, I was awoken by a very loud lady singing. I couldn't open my eyes wide but I was thinking to myself why did the radio station play such terrible music (half asleep, I cursed what lousy singer it was). The volume increased, I couldn't describe how awful the vocals sound but the lyrics did not make sense. It was like someone with tone-deaf singing in a language which consisted of "lau lau, wo wo, lau lau har lau wo wo laur waarr, haarr" it has lots of rrrrrr......and wwrrrrr...... whats more, the background music was so soft that you can only hear "bom tsk tsk, bom tsk tsk" which was the drums and cymbals. It continued for most of the night and though it irritated me, I was too tired to even wake up to switch to another station. It was loud though.....very loud. I feel into slumber...
When I woke up, some guys from the next bunk came and asked who was turning on the radio so loud last night. I remembered...the radio..hmm..I walked to my radio and checked, guess what? Jacky Chueng was still crooning in repeat-mode. Which means? Which means that noone touched the radio yesterday night, which means what we heard last night was..........
Silence.....we just looked at one another. How to explain what we heard? It was so close to our ears and so loud last night it was hard to imagine how a woman would be singing and if it's not the radio who could it be? We went to the other bunks to check, we found out that our bunk was the only bunk with a mini-compo.
When we re-composed ourselves, one guy from bunk 4 told us he saw 'something' last night...it was a lady with a child in her hands walking along the balcony. She was sighing and singing to the child while looking at the parade square. He saw her sigh loudly before throwing the kid down and then followed by jumping down. He looked really white when he told us.
It was spooky. After that incident, there were more stories from the other companies but maybe because we were the first ones to experience that, we were left alone. I don't remember I experienced anything else during my stay in Nee Soon.
Encounter 1: During BMT (Aug'97)
I was under-going my 2nd month, having failed IPPT again and again, I was one of the few guys who had to continue to stay in camp while some of those who passed could take a 1 week break. I remembered there were only 4 guys in my bunk during a Thursday night. It was also the start of the Hungry Ghost festival or 7th month. We were already quite spooked by all the ghost stories which were told to us by those who were booking out (bunch of assholes wanted to make life more miserable while they have a good time with their families).
I remembered we just finished a whole day of RT training (Remedial Physical Training) by the PTI (Physical Training Instructor) and we had an early night. The only entertainment we had was my portable hi-fi which we played Jacky Chueng's CD every night. It was my only CD which I brought in and we played this CD on repeat mode every night.
As usual, Jacky was crooning his songs when we fell asleep. That night, I was awoken by a very loud lady singing. I couldn't open my eyes wide but I was thinking to myself why did the radio station play such terrible music (half asleep, I cursed what lousy singer it was). The volume increased, I couldn't describe how awful the vocals sound but the lyrics did not make sense. It was like someone with tone-deaf singing in a language which consisted of "lau lau, wo wo, lau lau har lau wo wo laur waarr, haarr" it has lots of rrrrrr......and wwrrrrr...... whats more, the background music was so soft that you can only hear "bom tsk tsk, bom tsk tsk" which was the drums and cymbals. It continued for most of the night and though it irritated me, I was too tired to even wake up to switch to another station. It was loud though.....very loud. I feel into slumber...
When I woke up, some guys from the next bunk came and asked who was turning on the radio so loud last night. I remembered...the radio..hmm..I walked to my radio and checked, guess what? Jacky Chueng was still crooning in repeat-mode. Which means? Which means that noone touched the radio yesterday night, which means what we heard last night was..........
Silence.....we just looked at one another. How to explain what we heard? It was so close to our ears and so loud last night it was hard to imagine how a woman would be singing and if it's not the radio who could it be? We went to the other bunks to check, we found out that our bunk was the only bunk with a mini-compo.
When we re-composed ourselves, one guy from bunk 4 told us he saw 'something' last night...it was a lady with a child in her hands walking along the balcony. She was sighing and singing to the child while looking at the parade square. He saw her sigh loudly before throwing the kid down and then followed by jumping down. He looked really white when he told us.
It was spooky. After that incident, there were more stories from the other companies but maybe because we were the first ones to experience that, we were left alone. I don't remember I experienced anything else during my stay in Nee Soon.
BMT Mis-fits
Well let me tell you a few of those characters that I still remember.
Character No. 1: The Sotong
This particular species of recruit is one of the most dangerous. If you become his buddy his basic display of understand would cause not only his buddy but the whole platoon to get into trouble. Remeber the 'KOTEK' that I mentioned in my previous post? Well let's call him Sotong here.
Description: Skinny, pimpled, Dark Black plastic glasses, Chinese as first language, No girlfriend, A-Star student during his pre-NS days.
I remember the relationship we had with Sotong was a love - hate relationship. We loved him for the wrong reasons. He was the source of entertainment during night snack because everyone would be asking him about his gf (even though we know he had none). He was alway the target of our instructors as well as the majority. He was the guy in charge of pouring rubbish, washing toilet, doing fatigue. The reason is that he basically screws up on most of the tasks to him and as a result gets more task as a form of punishment. He is also one of the greatest asset of a PS because he creates the opportunity for our PS to punish the whole platoon. Remember all for one and one for all? Well that is a stupid philosophy. This guy will always be late for fall-in, will turn the wrong way during a parade, will follow the wrong commands, will say the wrong things, basically LOSER. I guess we need people like this not even in the army but real life.
Character 2: The Hero
This species always seem to think he represents the whole group's thinking. You never ever want to be near the hero. He will volunteer for everything, He sucks up to the instructors and he spies around the platoon to see if anything wrongfully is committed.
Description: Ultra egoistic, Loud, Mr. Know it All, Mr. Have-seen-it, Chauvanistic arsehole
I believe every platoon has a few heros, these are the people who stand up who aspire to become an officer. To go to OCS and become future leaders. When ever they have a chance to be an IC, they throw their power, shout at their peers and have no humane feelings for their colleagues. This person can be seen most of the time at the company line office where he does admin work for the instructors as well as running to the canteen to buy curry-puff, kopi, nasi-lemak for the instructors. These people do make it to OCS (I shall cover these species when I write more about OCS - Officer Cadet School).
Character 3: The Kia-See King
This species basically is scared of every single thing. He makes sures that he does everything that the instructors tell him to not because he aspires to be THE HERO but he submits because of fear. Fear of punishment, Fear of rejection from his peers.
Description: Comes in different sizes and shapes. Have high tendancy to crack during intense training and conditions.
The Kia-See King is quite hard to spot because of his availability to blend in well with everyone and basically agreeing to the vast majority. However, once given a task which requires to lead or requires critical thinking - he cracks. This is evident when he uses qoutes others to get the job done. Popular quotes are 'because Sergent says so..' , 'I scared later I kenna.....', 'help leh.....', 'dun like that lah later Sergent.....'. When it comes to jungle training or section movement, this guy would shout for people to cover him but he will never cover you. Can be found hiding away from the action (but not to be confused with another species called the Shiam or Taiji King). Most dangerous during live firing or grenade live training. He usually cracks but is too scared to tell or show. Some Bo-bo shooters falls into the category (Bo-bo shooters are people who cannot aim and hit the target during firing of live rounds). Kia-See King usually have a chicken heart so during the midst of high activity or action, he gets lost and may have tendancy to commit suicide if not discovered at the right time. This guy usually will not want to hear ghost stories too. (I will share some personal experience when it comes to Ghost in my later posts).
Character 4: The Slacker - Shiam King
This species also stand up in the crowd. Most are untidy and look very sloppy. They are most vulnerable during 'turn-out' or 'stand-by bed'. They are extremely dangerous on these occasions because their behavior is uncontrollable. They have no disregard for policy or instructions, most of the time causing others to be punished together with them.
Description: Smart 4 sleeves being folded below the elbow. Boots unpolished. Wears the same underwear for 1 week. Un-washed No. 4. Have no proper hygine. Usually have no supply of toilet paper roll for the whole 5-months. May have Body Odour (BO).
The slacker or shiam king have a distinct habit of not following orders properly. Have dis-regard for timing. Can be found sleeping most of the time on his bed without taking off his uniform or boots. I remembered this guy spending 1 week out-field training and then coming back to camp, without bathing but falling asleep with that stinking attire on his bed. His bedsheets are usually yellow and it is unfortunate to be marching/sitting/sleeping/sharing a tent/bathing beside him. Ok, you may ask why bathing? Well this person will not even bother to buy his shampoo or soap but tends to borrow. But of course, being a slacker or shiam king does not necessary make him a bad guy. He just don't care about what others think.
Character 5: The Wa-yang King
This species is not easy to spot. Has exceptional ability to react, talk, counter, imitate - a talent who qualifies for star search. Can be dangerous or an asset to a platoon. Do not be confuse with the Shiam King. The Wa-yang King has high EQ and is versatile to changing physical and mental conditions. His survival is to change to avoid detection.
Description: N.A. You can only differentiate him from the rest after fine observation of his EQ.
Wa-yang King only volunteers for things when it can score big political points with the instructors. He will look out for projects or assignments which is visually obvious to the instructors and his peers of his efforts. Even simple assignments like being the song IC can score big political points because his voice is the loudest, he boost morale, he make sures the platoon marches in the right timing, he creates and he gets noticed. Most people knows him and appreciates his effort because music in the army sung by 50 men can be quite an up-lifting experience. I mean Wa-yang and Music comes together right?
Character No. 1: The Sotong
This particular species of recruit is one of the most dangerous. If you become his buddy his basic display of understand would cause not only his buddy but the whole platoon to get into trouble. Remeber the 'KOTEK' that I mentioned in my previous post? Well let's call him Sotong here.
Description: Skinny, pimpled, Dark Black plastic glasses, Chinese as first language, No girlfriend, A-Star student during his pre-NS days.
I remember the relationship we had with Sotong was a love - hate relationship. We loved him for the wrong reasons. He was the source of entertainment during night snack because everyone would be asking him about his gf (even though we know he had none). He was alway the target of our instructors as well as the majority. He was the guy in charge of pouring rubbish, washing toilet, doing fatigue. The reason is that he basically screws up on most of the tasks to him and as a result gets more task as a form of punishment. He is also one of the greatest asset of a PS because he creates the opportunity for our PS to punish the whole platoon. Remember all for one and one for all? Well that is a stupid philosophy. This guy will always be late for fall-in, will turn the wrong way during a parade, will follow the wrong commands, will say the wrong things, basically LOSER. I guess we need people like this not even in the army but real life.
Character 2: The Hero
This species always seem to think he represents the whole group's thinking. You never ever want to be near the hero. He will volunteer for everything, He sucks up to the instructors and he spies around the platoon to see if anything wrongfully is committed.
Description: Ultra egoistic, Loud, Mr. Know it All, Mr. Have-seen-it, Chauvanistic arsehole
I believe every platoon has a few heros, these are the people who stand up who aspire to become an officer. To go to OCS and become future leaders. When ever they have a chance to be an IC, they throw their power, shout at their peers and have no humane feelings for their colleagues. This person can be seen most of the time at the company line office where he does admin work for the instructors as well as running to the canteen to buy curry-puff, kopi, nasi-lemak for the instructors. These people do make it to OCS (I shall cover these species when I write more about OCS - Officer Cadet School).
Character 3: The Kia-See King
This species basically is scared of every single thing. He makes sures that he does everything that the instructors tell him to not because he aspires to be THE HERO but he submits because of fear. Fear of punishment, Fear of rejection from his peers.
Description: Comes in different sizes and shapes. Have high tendancy to crack during intense training and conditions.
The Kia-See King is quite hard to spot because of his availability to blend in well with everyone and basically agreeing to the vast majority. However, once given a task which requires to lead or requires critical thinking - he cracks. This is evident when he uses qoutes others to get the job done. Popular quotes are 'because Sergent says so..' , 'I scared later I kenna.....', 'help leh.....', 'dun like that lah later Sergent.....'. When it comes to jungle training or section movement, this guy would shout for people to cover him but he will never cover you. Can be found hiding away from the action (but not to be confused with another species called the Shiam or Taiji King). Most dangerous during live firing or grenade live training. He usually cracks but is too scared to tell or show. Some Bo-bo shooters falls into the category (Bo-bo shooters are people who cannot aim and hit the target during firing of live rounds). Kia-See King usually have a chicken heart so during the midst of high activity or action, he gets lost and may have tendancy to commit suicide if not discovered at the right time. This guy usually will not want to hear ghost stories too. (I will share some personal experience when it comes to Ghost in my later posts).
Character 4: The Slacker - Shiam King
This species also stand up in the crowd. Most are untidy and look very sloppy. They are most vulnerable during 'turn-out' or 'stand-by bed'. They are extremely dangerous on these occasions because their behavior is uncontrollable. They have no disregard for policy or instructions, most of the time causing others to be punished together with them.
Description: Smart 4 sleeves being folded below the elbow. Boots unpolished. Wears the same underwear for 1 week. Un-washed No. 4. Have no proper hygine. Usually have no supply of toilet paper roll for the whole 5-months. May have Body Odour (BO).
The slacker or shiam king have a distinct habit of not following orders properly. Have dis-regard for timing. Can be found sleeping most of the time on his bed without taking off his uniform or boots. I remembered this guy spending 1 week out-field training and then coming back to camp, without bathing but falling asleep with that stinking attire on his bed. His bedsheets are usually yellow and it is unfortunate to be marching/sitting/sleeping/sharing a tent/bathing beside him. Ok, you may ask why bathing? Well this person will not even bother to buy his shampoo or soap but tends to borrow. But of course, being a slacker or shiam king does not necessary make him a bad guy. He just don't care about what others think.
Character 5: The Wa-yang King
This species is not easy to spot. Has exceptional ability to react, talk, counter, imitate - a talent who qualifies for star search. Can be dangerous or an asset to a platoon. Do not be confuse with the Shiam King. The Wa-yang King has high EQ and is versatile to changing physical and mental conditions. His survival is to change to avoid detection.
Description: N.A. You can only differentiate him from the rest after fine observation of his EQ.
Wa-yang King only volunteers for things when it can score big political points with the instructors. He will look out for projects or assignments which is visually obvious to the instructors and his peers of his efforts. Even simple assignments like being the song IC can score big political points because his voice is the loudest, he boost morale, he make sures the platoon marches in the right timing, he creates and he gets noticed. Most people knows him and appreciates his effort because music in the army sung by 50 men can be quite an up-lifting experience. I mean Wa-yang and Music comes together right?
Reflections from the Past: THE NS DAZE (1997-1999)
Motivated by my wife and time, I'am going to share my 2.5 years of National Service experiences.
The first 5-months (Basic Military Training)
I remembered the day I received my national service call up from a Government Registered letter from CMPB. First reaction 'Siao liao....'. I had to do my medical check at CMPB HQ. Tried my best to 'keng' even from taking the photograph (intentionally made myself look ultra-pathetic, I later regreted because my 11B 'NS IC' photo for 2 years made me look like a spastic IMH patient). It didn't help. I told the MO (Medical Officer) that I had duck feet but I merely got a PES B. With reality kicking in, I started my preparation for my June intake (directly after my graduation from NgeeAnn).
Being an overweight kid, I embarked on my journey of fear. I was in pre-training batch of 2months because I failed my IPPT. Those that passed their IPPT test would go directly to the 3-months. I had an advancement of 2 months. My other buddies who were classified under Obsese would start BMT at the later half of 1997. Being one of the first among my mates to start BMT in June, many were excited for me. I was the guinea pig who would be able to share my experience with the rest.
The night before NS, I had a nice family dinner together with my gf (now my wife). It was sad, reminded me of the last supper. My parents were saying it's only 2.5 years and it'll be over, my gf was upset because it means not seeing me for the first 4 weeks. Me? I was down in the dumps, leaving to a place of uncertainty and to be together with a bunch of new misfits in a similar situation like myself. My best buddies made an appointment to send me off at CMPB at 11am the next day, I guess they were more excited than me probably gleefully soaking in the atmosphere of seeing their friend the first to go to NS.
The next morning, I woke up, saw myself in the mirror and look sheepishly that I will lose my haircut. FYI- my parents and gf did not send me off because I requested them not to. I don't need my love ones there to make me feel even more demoralized than ever. I took my bag (just underwear, some clothes and my slipper) and off I went by cab.
When I arrived there, I met my friends who were darn happy to see me. It was like a carnival with people's families and gfs all crowded together. I was down. Very down. I registered myself and was told that in 20mins I will have to bid farewell and to take a bus. No explanation was given to where I was going. Time passed quickly and before I knew it I was loaded up into an air-con coach with the rest of the other guys. I guess everyone in the bus felt the same way. You could see the crowd waving (I don't know why the hell they look so happy, I think it was more of a mocking happiness to see the guys in the bus moving off to serve the nation and that they still had time to prepare for their own NS in months to come). I avoided eye-contact with my friends as I waved a final goodbye and looked to the next guy sitting beside me (he looked like his face was lang ga by car).
The bus ride took an 1hour before we arrived at Geat Hong camp. It was in Chua Chu Kang, I thought it was the camp in which we were going to spend our 5 months there. But was told by the sergant in the bus that we are headed to Ngee Soon after this stop. We went down from the bus and stood in line in front of a huge warehouse. There, we were shouted by some guys in vest and slacks to stand properly. We were issued our 'Ali-Baba' bag and were told to open up the bag widely for the rest of our army kit (most of the stuff issued will stay on with us for the next 2.5 years). I forgotten much about the contents but my army uniform, boots and a whole lot of junk was dumped into the bag as we moved along the queue. Took us 2 hours to get things sorted before we loaded up the bus again. Then it was another 1 hour ride to our final destination, Nee Soon Camp.
The first 5-months (Basic Military Training)
I remembered the day I received my national service call up from a Government Registered letter from CMPB. First reaction 'Siao liao....'. I had to do my medical check at CMPB HQ. Tried my best to 'keng' even from taking the photograph (intentionally made myself look ultra-pathetic, I later regreted because my 11B 'NS IC' photo for 2 years made me look like a spastic IMH patient). It didn't help. I told the MO (Medical Officer) that I had duck feet but I merely got a PES B. With reality kicking in, I started my preparation for my June intake (directly after my graduation from NgeeAnn).
Being an overweight kid, I embarked on my journey of fear. I was in pre-training batch of 2months because I failed my IPPT. Those that passed their IPPT test would go directly to the 3-months. I had an advancement of 2 months. My other buddies who were classified under Obsese would start BMT at the later half of 1997. Being one of the first among my mates to start BMT in June, many were excited for me. I was the guinea pig who would be able to share my experience with the rest.
The night before NS, I had a nice family dinner together with my gf (now my wife). It was sad, reminded me of the last supper. My parents were saying it's only 2.5 years and it'll be over, my gf was upset because it means not seeing me for the first 4 weeks. Me? I was down in the dumps, leaving to a place of uncertainty and to be together with a bunch of new misfits in a similar situation like myself. My best buddies made an appointment to send me off at CMPB at 11am the next day, I guess they were more excited than me probably gleefully soaking in the atmosphere of seeing their friend the first to go to NS.
The next morning, I woke up, saw myself in the mirror and look sheepishly that I will lose my haircut. FYI- my parents and gf did not send me off because I requested them not to. I don't need my love ones there to make me feel even more demoralized than ever. I took my bag (just underwear, some clothes and my slipper) and off I went by cab.
When I arrived there, I met my friends who were darn happy to see me. It was like a carnival with people's families and gfs all crowded together. I was down. Very down. I registered myself and was told that in 20mins I will have to bid farewell and to take a bus. No explanation was given to where I was going. Time passed quickly and before I knew it I was loaded up into an air-con coach with the rest of the other guys. I guess everyone in the bus felt the same way. You could see the crowd waving (I don't know why the hell they look so happy, I think it was more of a mocking happiness to see the guys in the bus moving off to serve the nation and that they still had time to prepare for their own NS in months to come). I avoided eye-contact with my friends as I waved a final goodbye and looked to the next guy sitting beside me (he looked like his face was lang ga by car).
The bus ride took an 1hour before we arrived at Geat Hong camp. It was in Chua Chu Kang, I thought it was the camp in which we were going to spend our 5 months there. But was told by the sergant in the bus that we are headed to Ngee Soon after this stop. We went down from the bus and stood in line in front of a huge warehouse. There, we were shouted by some guys in vest and slacks to stand properly. We were issued our 'Ali-Baba' bag and were told to open up the bag widely for the rest of our army kit (most of the stuff issued will stay on with us for the next 2.5 years). I forgotten much about the contents but my army uniform, boots and a whole lot of junk was dumped into the bag as we moved along the queue. Took us 2 hours to get things sorted before we loaded up the bus again. Then it was another 1 hour ride to our final destination, Nee Soon Camp.
We were lead infront of the Barber shop. Erm....I wouldn't even call it a barbershop. There were just 4 chairs, 4 shavers, 4 barbers in the canteen. We were lined up in 4 rows and then each got his special haircut. The authenic Ngee Soon BOTAK Recruit hairstyle.
I can't describe the haircut experience, but if you ever watched Discovery Channel and seen how they shave wool off the sheeps? Yes, the experience is similar except that the Sheeps were handled much better. My head was sore from the shaver. The barber had no emotions and his shaver was digging into my scalp. What an asshole. Anyway, after the haircut everyone looked the same. Yes, we looked all the same. Vunerable, naked, embaressed - we looked like a dickhead. Like a bunch of sotongs.
It was already 4pm plus, we were lead back to the company line (the mini parade square) where we met our sergents (or instructors) who would be responsible for the rest of our lives for 5months. I was allocated bunk 3 with 14 people. I can't remember much of their names except for Adrain, Kelvin, Kevin, Ronald. Ronald became my buddy.
We were told to assemble back down to the company line at 5pm in Smart No. 4. We took our time packing stuff into our locker and wearing our uniform. I was lost, I was not from the NCC and the army does not teach people how to wear their uniform, tie the shoelace and stuff. We relied on Kevin and Ronald who became our advisors since they were from NCC. I was glad and relieved that we had such people to guide us.
When it was time to assemble, someone shouted 'fall-in! fall-in!'. There was a state of panick, everyone just left the bunk, ran down and assembled at the company line. Damn...it was the most confusing and comical sight you ever seen. Some guys in slippers, some guys with army uniform and track shoes, some guys with singlet and slacks, some guys with power all over his body with no.4 but shorts. It was crazy...!! The platoon sergent (this guy would be the main instructor and father of all of us) told us to stand properly. He sat down by the company line while we stood. He said (his words firmly in my mind):' Gentlemen, welcome to Ngee Soon camp, Gryphon Company, Platoon 1. Today, I will teach you a few basic things you need to understand. Rule 1, greet people according to rank. Not uncle, brother, friend. They are not your buddy, they are your superior. You respect people according to their rank in the army. So, you will greet as sergent as sergent. Warrant Officers and Officers as SIR.' Understand anot?
We were silent. Someone shouted loudly 'yes sir!'. Platoon sergent replied...'see gentlemen, you guys don't understand english. I said when you greet, greet sergent by sergent. officer by Sir. you don't seem to understand right?'
This time everyone shouted 'yes, sergent!'. Platoon sergent seemed pleased and said ' ok, now that you understood english, I'll teach you some basic excercise you need. You see in army we believe in keeping people fighting fit for the nation. But before you fight you need to understand how to do the basic excercise. Have you guys done push-ups? Yes right?' He demonstrated by going on push up position and then while in that position he said ' when I say knock it down, it means to go down on this position'. When I say 'down, you do 1 push up, understand?' We said 'YES SERGENT!'. He then proceed to a sit-up position and said ' When I say change, you change to crunchers. When I say Up you do 1 sit-up, understand?' We replied 'YES SERGENT!'
That started our first briefing or the basic form of punishment every NS guy would have had before. It writes a chapter of emotional and physical punishment that we have to go through for the first 1 year of our life as an army boy.
From now I will refer to Platoon Sergent as PS. PS then shouted..'Gentlemen, knock it down'. We looked at each other and then took our time to get into push up position. Some guys were sweeping stones and granite from the tar floor of the company line. PS said 'Very slow...recover'. We stood up. PS shouted 'Gentlemen this is the army you better move fast, knock it down!' We got down and up, I can't remember how many times. But it was too much for me to remember. Then we changed to sit-up positions and back to push-ups. PS said in a repetitive robotic tone 'Change, Change, Change' we became like a tortise flipping from push ups to sit ups position. Oh yes, we were so tired and mind you we had not even done 1 single full push up or sit up.
After 30mins, he said: ' Gentlemen, you guys are like a bunch of school girls, I give you 5mins. Change into No. 4 like what I'am wearing and make sure you look like a recruit. MOVE!'.
We went up and got properly dressed even though we were already in No.4, we were lucky to have those NCC guys explain in advance. We rushed down again and assembled. PS shouted 'Fall in' and then some idiots came again with No. 4 tucked into their pants. It was really funny and most of the people started laughing. PS then told the platoon 'knock it down 20'. Everyone did at their own time and it was un-coordinated. By the time all finished PS said again 'you guys don't know how to count, i count for you. Do it together!'. He proceeded to count from 1 - 20 in like 20mins. (*I will cut short about this because it's taking too long to even explain the trauma of mental and physical torture on our first day).
We proceeded to the cookhouse for dinner lined up with the other new recruits. We queued at the training shed beside the cookhouse and waited for our company's turn to get called. Once we got called by a COS (Company Order Sergent), we walked to the cookhouse to collect our trays. Back in the days of my BMT, the food was cooked by NS cooks. Which means we didn't have the luxury of eating from plates and food catered by Singapore Food Industries. We ate from metal trays and food served by NS Cooks (mostly ah bengs with tatoos who looked like gangsters). We had to hold out trays in both hands, and the cooks would scoop and slame it on your tray as if he owes you a living. Oh yes I remembered the first welcome dinner was Hainan Chicken Rice. Well I guess you must be thinking that Singapore's famous local delight would be served in the style of Boon Tong Kee. Please wake up your idea la, it was 2 small little drumsticks coated with gravy which is more oil (you could see the layer of oil 3cm thick over the chicken) and rice which basically taste hard. Oh yes, the trays after eating are washed by each recruit and yes, noone bothers to wash the trays that clean. So, it's a matter of luck if you get a clean tray or a dirty oily tray. If you have a dirty oily tray, just eat the top layer of rice and leave the bottom layer of rice or food untouched (that separates the dirty part from the clean part).
After dinner, we went back to our bunks and had some free time until 8pm. We were called to assemble in PT Kit (stands for Physical Training - Singlet and Shorts). It was time for night snack. There was milo and buns in a container and there was a chair for the PS to sit. We all sat in rows infront of him while he sat there. The topic for the night was introduction. About 40 guys for 1 platoon and 1 platoon had 4 sections which means each section had 10 guys). There was one guy who stood out, he was the one of the clowns who tucked in his no.4. PS gave him the name of 'KOTEK' I think it means dickhead or something in malay. I don't know there were so many malay names given to us by our sergents because majority were malays.
It was 9pm when we made our way back to our bunk (bunk is a place where we sleep). We did our bedsheets our own way, most of us slept because we had to wake up at 0600hrs the next day. I guess everyone was restless that night, I couldn't sleep. It was a sad night for me, I couldn't make phone calls to my parents and my gf. Noone could call their families that night because the public phone (there was only 1 public phone for the whole 50 guys). It was sad...we just getting to know one another. Anyway, it was just awkward. We had nothing in common except for being in the same boat. Before I knew, I was in my slumber thinking of what's to come.....
[I will cut short on day to day stuff but will continue on some particular experience I had while I under go my training in my new posting]
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
2 days MC...
Who invented this great piece of paper which empowers the doctor to provide relieve to the patient after his "3mins" diagnosis and then charge him a fee for medicine?
I think MC is one of the best things in life when you need get away from all that political and work related clutter from the office. Definately worth the visit to the doctor.
Well hell, I got mine for 2 days and the doc even wanted to offer me 3 days. Hmm.......let me calculate the ROI for MC.
Cost of MC: $30
No. of Days MC: 2 days
Cost of MC per day: $15
Pay of Work per day: Assuming $100
Pay of Work while on MC for 2 days: $100-15 = $85 (ROI)
So you see, it pays to take MC rather than Leave.
But seriously, I needed the rest. Office days have been like a freaking circus. Yes, we have clowns and monkeys as the main attraction. Well, let me tell you a story of a clown that aspires to manage people. Let's call him Bozo.
I'll provide you a list of FABE nono.....it's not Features, Advantages, Benefits and Evidence but Features, Arsehole Behavior, Evidence. Bozo is a guy that is....
Lacking Self Confidence why? He is extremely uncomfortable when being asked his opinion or direction, has no clear idea what he wants and is not specific on his request. This results in arsehole behavior of avoiding issues and escaping meetings. Evidence is obvious in the way he plans other meetings that clashes with one another, then pick the easier meeting to attend to. Or simply say..."Sorry I'am busy".
Unable to Manage why? Ok let's say you have a group of people reporting to you, obviously all portfolio requires his attention and his direction. Managing people requires time to understand their needs and to create the proper environment in which they are able to complete their task within the specified deadline. Expectations have to be made clear to staff and also to provide support and advise when issues are too complicated for them to comprehend. But the sad truth is that he manages people by enforcing a schedule system where he tracks each member for the task that they set themselves. How in the world would new staff be able to do a schedule if they don't understand the fundamental process? Hello...we're talking about Marketing here not Production. Arsehole behavior again shows that it demoralizes and confuses the individual and with unclear goals and expectations, the team remains stagnanted. Evidence shows that whenever there is a problem he goes way back to "Schedule".
Lack of Leadership why? Imagine this scenario, you're an officer in the army responsible for a platoon of elite soldiers. The soldiers come from different background in expertise and the officer came directly from the officer school. Without real war exposire, the officer puts his men into lectures about warfare tactics. (Chinese saying: Talking war on paper...). The soliders or his men fear him because of his rank and he does not train together with them during peace time. When war comes, when soldiers are thrown into the battlefield, he shouts commands from behind the hill (mind you, he ain't even standing on the hill overlooking the action). What sort of leader is he? What a pussy. When his men returned with battle scars and fatigue he asks them to improve themselves and that he feels that they should have "done this" "done that". What's the rationale of saying so much when infact there is no leadership by example? In life we don't need people to manage us but we need leaders to inspire, motivate, inject passion into our lives.
Enough said. I'am still on MC so give me time to collect my thoughts properly.
I think MC is one of the best things in life when you need get away from all that political and work related clutter from the office. Definately worth the visit to the doctor.
Well hell, I got mine for 2 days and the doc even wanted to offer me 3 days. Hmm.......let me calculate the ROI for MC.
Cost of MC: $30
No. of Days MC: 2 days
Cost of MC per day: $15
Pay of Work per day: Assuming $100
Pay of Work while on MC for 2 days: $100-15 = $85 (ROI)
So you see, it pays to take MC rather than Leave.
But seriously, I needed the rest. Office days have been like a freaking circus. Yes, we have clowns and monkeys as the main attraction. Well, let me tell you a story of a clown that aspires to manage people. Let's call him Bozo.
I'll provide you a list of FABE nono.....it's not Features, Advantages, Benefits and Evidence but Features, Arsehole Behavior, Evidence. Bozo is a guy that is....
Lacking Self Confidence why? He is extremely uncomfortable when being asked his opinion or direction, has no clear idea what he wants and is not specific on his request. This results in arsehole behavior of avoiding issues and escaping meetings. Evidence is obvious in the way he plans other meetings that clashes with one another, then pick the easier meeting to attend to. Or simply say..."Sorry I'am busy".
Unable to Manage why? Ok let's say you have a group of people reporting to you, obviously all portfolio requires his attention and his direction. Managing people requires time to understand their needs and to create the proper environment in which they are able to complete their task within the specified deadline. Expectations have to be made clear to staff and also to provide support and advise when issues are too complicated for them to comprehend. But the sad truth is that he manages people by enforcing a schedule system where he tracks each member for the task that they set themselves. How in the world would new staff be able to do a schedule if they don't understand the fundamental process? Hello...we're talking about Marketing here not Production. Arsehole behavior again shows that it demoralizes and confuses the individual and with unclear goals and expectations, the team remains stagnanted. Evidence shows that whenever there is a problem he goes way back to "Schedule".
Lack of Leadership why? Imagine this scenario, you're an officer in the army responsible for a platoon of elite soldiers. The soldiers come from different background in expertise and the officer came directly from the officer school. Without real war exposire, the officer puts his men into lectures about warfare tactics. (Chinese saying: Talking war on paper...). The soliders or his men fear him because of his rank and he does not train together with them during peace time. When war comes, when soldiers are thrown into the battlefield, he shouts commands from behind the hill (mind you, he ain't even standing on the hill overlooking the action). What sort of leader is he? What a pussy. When his men returned with battle scars and fatigue he asks them to improve themselves and that he feels that they should have "done this" "done that". What's the rationale of saying so much when infact there is no leadership by example? In life we don't need people to manage us but we need leaders to inspire, motivate, inject passion into our lives.
Enough said. I'am still on MC so give me time to collect my thoughts properly.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Reflections
Been busy for a long time...I don't even know when was the last time I remembered anything interesting to blog about. I don't read anymore books, I don't watch the tv, I rarely go to movies, I forget about the happenings, I don't know the lastest news...
There's too many I don't knows to even know where to start this.
Maybe I just need time...hmmm...well here's a sample of my weekdays.
0645hrs - Alarm Clock rings
0645 - 0700hrs - Continue Sleeping until my Wife wakes me up
0700hrs - brush teeth, toilet, dress up
0720hrs - feed the fish, add the ferts for my plants
0725hrs - say my prayers
0726hrs - walk to the kitchen gulp down watever my wife puts on the table
0730hrs - downstairs with my wife to take a cab
0745hrs - drop my wife off
0800hrs - reach my work place
0810hrs - boot up my lap top
0810 - 0850hrs - go to the coffeeshop and have a breakfast meeting
0900hrs - check my emails
0930 - 1200hrs - meetings, work, meetings, work
1200 - 1330hrs - lunch meetings, or lunch with colleagues
1330 - 1930hrs - meetings, work, meetings, work
1930 - 2030hrs - reach home to see my dear wife
2030 - 2100hrs - have peace of mind eating dinner (no meetings finally)
2100 - 2200hrs - Ch 55 with my wife
2200 - 2300hrs - Ch 55 with my wife
2300 - 2315hrs - bathe
2315 - 0010 - talk to my wife in bed and sleep
Ok, with my schedule like that and my home computer having it's freaking life of it's own, I can't really think of anyway to blog except for business trips.
It's sad but do I have a choice?
There's too many I don't knows to even know where to start this.
Maybe I just need time...hmmm...well here's a sample of my weekdays.
0645hrs - Alarm Clock rings
0645 - 0700hrs - Continue Sleeping until my Wife wakes me up
0700hrs - brush teeth, toilet, dress up
0720hrs - feed the fish, add the ferts for my plants
0725hrs - say my prayers
0726hrs - walk to the kitchen gulp down watever my wife puts on the table
0730hrs - downstairs with my wife to take a cab
0745hrs - drop my wife off
0800hrs - reach my work place
0810hrs - boot up my lap top
0810 - 0850hrs - go to the coffeeshop and have a breakfast meeting
0900hrs - check my emails
0930 - 1200hrs - meetings, work, meetings, work
1200 - 1330hrs - lunch meetings, or lunch with colleagues
1330 - 1930hrs - meetings, work, meetings, work
1930 - 2030hrs - reach home to see my dear wife
2030 - 2100hrs - have peace of mind eating dinner (no meetings finally)
2100 - 2200hrs - Ch 55 with my wife
2200 - 2300hrs - Ch 55 with my wife
2300 - 2315hrs - bathe
2315 - 0010 - talk to my wife in bed and sleep
Ok, with my schedule like that and my home computer having it's freaking life of it's own, I can't really think of anyway to blog except for business trips.
It's sad but do I have a choice?
Friday, May 11, 2007
Singaporean Encountered in KL Hotel
Alright, I told myself to blog this down before I sleep. I had to share with you just how irritating some of our fellow countrymen are. No offence to the rest.
I arrived at the KL Hilton at 9pm yesterday and the check-in reception was really jam packed with people. There were 2 different lanes, 1 was for Hilton Honors members and 1 was for the rest. Being a Hilton Honors member myself, I could have queued at the lane meant for members (FYI - Hilton Honors is a loyalty card scheme where you get free upgrades, priority check-ins and other priviledges if you're Gold or Diamond status), but the queue was faster at the non-members lane so I decided to wait there instead. I was the next in line when there was this lady in her 40s who cut into my lane, she was queueing at the members lane but stood infront of me. The reception guy knowing she might be a Hilton Honors member gave her priority instead of serving me.
Well I was too tired to bother so I waited for my turn and was called shortly after by another reception staff for my check-in. Standing near this lady, I could hear her conversation with the reception staff very clearly. Here goes my memory of the conversation:-
Reception: Welcome to KL Hilton, can I have your passport please.
Lady: *flashes out her Silver Hilton Honors card*
Reception: Mam can I have your passport please?
Lady: YAR YAR.....*takes out her passport and places it on the table*
Reception: Thank you, Miss XXX, are you staying for 1 night only?
Lady: YAR..
Lady: Sorry AR, I'am a Gold member but why they demote me?
Reception: Sorry?
Lady: I said, why they send me Silver card when I'am Gold? Why they demote?
Reception: Mam, the system says you are a Gold member.
Reception: Sorry there was a mistake maybe.
Lady: YAR. How come they send me Silver? I'am GOLD, I'am GOLD what.
Reception: Sorry. *pause*
Lady: *makes TSK TSK sound*
Reception: Mam, you are entitled for a room upgrade.
Lady: YAR. I told you I'am GOLD.
Reception: *pause and checks systems*
Reception: Sorry Mam, your room upgrade is on the smoking floor.
Lady: Smoking Floor? Why Smoking Floor? Why?
Reception: Sorry Mam, all floors are fully booked.
Reception: We can only upgrade to available rooms on the smoking floor.
Lady: *impatient scornful face* OK LAH. Anyway, I stay 1 night.
Lady: How could you all do this to me? I'am GOLD and I stay here 4 times a mth.
Reception: We try our best, is smoking room alright?
Reception: If not, we can still give you the original room you were booked on.
Lady: I said OK right? *Tsk sound*
Reception: Mam, please have your breakfast on the 1st floor.
Lady: I KNOW.
Lady: Please tell your management that I'am GOLD and change my card.
Reception: Yes, will do and I'am sure your GOLD card will arrive soon.
Lady: Next time, I will write a letter to your management.
---------the above conversation took like 15mins------------
I was really embaressed by the attitude of this lady. I mean what was she thinking? So what if she's a Gold card member? Having an upgrade is a bonus and why is she whining? I was so shy to be standing near this lady who is holding the same passport as I am. During the whole conversation, the reception lady who was serving me smiled. I guess she's probably sharing the same thoughts about this lady.
It's because of the action of such black sheeps abroad that really cements the stereotype that foreign friends have of Singaporeans. (Selfish, Rude, Insensitive). Some friends told me they could spot a Singaporean at the airport, hotels, foreign place. WHY? Because they talk loud, complain, they look irritable, they are never happy.
Anyway, my patience paid off at the end because I was told by the hotel that my Hilton Honors status was upgraded from Silver to Gold from this month. I managed to get my free upgrade just like her. But less the complain.
I wouldn't say I'am perfect, I do at times talk loud, complain...BUT I try to behave myself when I'am overseas because I believe when you leave country, what impression you give others is important because you represent Singapore.
I arrived at the KL Hilton at 9pm yesterday and the check-in reception was really jam packed with people. There were 2 different lanes, 1 was for Hilton Honors members and 1 was for the rest. Being a Hilton Honors member myself, I could have queued at the lane meant for members (FYI - Hilton Honors is a loyalty card scheme where you get free upgrades, priority check-ins and other priviledges if you're Gold or Diamond status), but the queue was faster at the non-members lane so I decided to wait there instead. I was the next in line when there was this lady in her 40s who cut into my lane, she was queueing at the members lane but stood infront of me. The reception guy knowing she might be a Hilton Honors member gave her priority instead of serving me.
Well I was too tired to bother so I waited for my turn and was called shortly after by another reception staff for my check-in. Standing near this lady, I could hear her conversation with the reception staff very clearly. Here goes my memory of the conversation:-
Reception: Welcome to KL Hilton, can I have your passport please.
Lady: *flashes out her Silver Hilton Honors card*
Reception: Mam can I have your passport please?
Lady: YAR YAR.....*takes out her passport and places it on the table*
Reception: Thank you, Miss XXX, are you staying for 1 night only?
Lady: YAR..
Lady: Sorry AR, I'am a Gold member but why they demote me?
Reception: Sorry?
Lady: I said, why they send me Silver card when I'am Gold? Why they demote?
Reception: Mam, the system says you are a Gold member.
Reception: Sorry there was a mistake maybe.
Lady: YAR. How come they send me Silver? I'am GOLD, I'am GOLD what.
Reception: Sorry. *pause*
Lady: *makes TSK TSK sound*
Reception: Mam, you are entitled for a room upgrade.
Lady: YAR. I told you I'am GOLD.
Reception: *pause and checks systems*
Reception: Sorry Mam, your room upgrade is on the smoking floor.
Lady: Smoking Floor? Why Smoking Floor? Why?
Reception: Sorry Mam, all floors are fully booked.
Reception: We can only upgrade to available rooms on the smoking floor.
Lady: *impatient scornful face* OK LAH. Anyway, I stay 1 night.
Lady: How could you all do this to me? I'am GOLD and I stay here 4 times a mth.
Reception: We try our best, is smoking room alright?
Reception: If not, we can still give you the original room you were booked on.
Lady: I said OK right? *Tsk sound*
Reception: Mam, please have your breakfast on the 1st floor.
Lady: I KNOW.
Lady: Please tell your management that I'am GOLD and change my card.
Reception: Yes, will do and I'am sure your GOLD card will arrive soon.
Lady: Next time, I will write a letter to your management.
---------the above conversation took like 15mins------------
I was really embaressed by the attitude of this lady. I mean what was she thinking? So what if she's a Gold card member? Having an upgrade is a bonus and why is she whining? I was so shy to be standing near this lady who is holding the same passport as I am. During the whole conversation, the reception lady who was serving me smiled. I guess she's probably sharing the same thoughts about this lady.
It's because of the action of such black sheeps abroad that really cements the stereotype that foreign friends have of Singaporeans. (Selfish, Rude, Insensitive). Some friends told me they could spot a Singaporean at the airport, hotels, foreign place. WHY? Because they talk loud, complain, they look irritable, they are never happy.
Anyway, my patience paid off at the end because I was told by the hotel that my Hilton Honors status was upgraded from Silver to Gold from this month. I managed to get my free upgrade just like her. But less the complain.
I wouldn't say I'am perfect, I do at times talk loud, complain...BUT I try to behave myself when I'am overseas because I believe when you leave country, what impression you give others is important because you represent Singapore.
WoW Wii.............!!
Alright, to all those guys out there with your Xbox360 and your PS3, I think you ought to give Wii a shot. No doubt it cost more in Singapore compared to the Xbox and PS but the reason is due to the blawdy distributor wanting to package and push for a game to be included.Having said that, Wii comes with Wii Sports which is really the closest you get to exercising while having fun at home with your friends or loved ones. My wife and I had such a helluva time on tennis, golf, bowling, baseball which was a great work out (considering I rarely exercise).
Wii's definately great when you have guest at home to entertain, kids you need to keep busy and great for playing as a couple. Finally a game which gives joy to both my wife and myself.
Wii also allows you to design your own avatar (Mii) which by Wi-Fi to your wireless network connects you to other friends who own Wii. You can have your friends Mii appear on your Wii station. Enough said, to those who know me, come to my house and experience for yourself.
It's nowander PS3 sold only 3 million+ while Nintendo Wii sold twice the amount. Nintendo's back in the game after re-inventing itself and understanding what consumers really want.
Check Wii out at www.wii.com
Friday, May 4, 2007
Book Review: All Broken Up and Dancing - By Kelvin Tan
Here's a book which I strongly recommend, but I believe it's out of print. I bought it when I was going through some difficult times during my teenage years. I bought it back in 1993 and it has been with me ever since. To me, I have never read such a touching, emotional, real story from a Singaporean. Kelvin really triggered deep thoughts about being a Singaporen. It definately changed my perspective and views.I'll do a repost again with a short summary of the essence captured in the book. Meanwhile, since it's out of print the best way is to scan all the 2nd hand books stores just to see if you're lucky. I tried buying more copies over the years but managed to buy only 2 copies which I gave to 2 friends (1 from secondary school and 1 from my NS).
Information:
Paperback: 279 pagesDimensions (in inches): 0.75 x 8.0 x 5.15Publisher: Simpleman Books (1998)Originally published: Thesaurus Media Publications (1992) ISBN: 981-00-3998-0Copyright: Kelvin Tan, 1992
Kelvin's website: http://www.dialecticrealm.com
Kelvin's views on his writing (source: www.dialeticrealm.com)
"My writing mirrors the trauma of not so much being Singaporean, but being a human caught between different voices and narratives. It's a constant obsession of mine that the voices say that true existing is always a lot more disturbing than we'd like to admit. Which is why I have no regard for Artists who take the easy way out. It reflects their insincerity to everything." - Kelvin Tan
Thursday, May 3, 2007
TAIWAN - TAIPEI (Day 1)
What could be more rewarding on a business trip when you could eat the local food. Well I did just that immediately after check-in at the hotel. Headed straight for "Si ling" night market.Can't tell you how much I feel out of place there, apart from the food I don't think I fit in well. There were rows and rows of little shops selling clothes and accessories for young teenagers. I was dazed from a 3.5 hours plane ride from Singapore, hungry, tired and disappointed (had a bad day today).
Have you ever been in a situation when you're in a foreign place and you just wondered aimlessly not knowing what to expect, what to get, what to see. I felt more like a zombie walking past the dizzy lights, chatty teens, smokey food stalls and zipping scooters. I was bored. I went around in circles, just watching, waiting, walking. 
I wished I was somewhere more familiar where I could at least talk. It's been just 30mins but I felt bored already. Are my business trips getting boring through the years? I remembered when I was still a 22 year old when most of my business trips seemed like a new experience. I was so fascinated by the sights and sounds and smells of a foreign land. Fast forwarding back to now, I just felt that things have pretty much changed. My thoughts on business travel are now so darn boring I rather spend time lazing around at home, resting, spending time with my family. I believe exploration of a foreign place should best be left to holiday-ing rather than on a business trip.
60mins later, I'am back in the hotel room with a pack of BBQ snacks. There are 4 sticks all together, 1 stick of chicken liver, 1 stick of spring onions wrapped with bacon, 2 sticks of chicken backside. (FYI- each stick comes with 4 pieces of meat). I feel tired, my back hurts and aches, my mind's completely on hibernation mode. It took my 15mins and CNN plus 2 cans of Oolong tea to gobble that sinful chunk of food down. I feel much better writing down my feelings. Oh shesssh...I have got my morning call at 0630hrs. I still have tonnes of email to clear from work. I wonder whether I'll be able to breathe.
Sorry, I guess the topic "Taiwan-Taipei" seems much more meaningful if it was "Business travel gets boring in Taipei", then again, it's such a pity being in Taipei but not being able to really write much about the place.
Ok, it doesn't help much that the driver of the airport taxi fell asleep while driving me to the hotel. I could count the number of times he fell asleep, it was at least 4~5 times. I could have sworn he was getting some shut eye while driving at 120km/h. He was driving and swinging lanes, braking for no reason. I was practically silent in the taxi. I was tired too, I understood him. I broke the silence after observing him stopping at a traffic junction for at least 30secs before he woke up and stepped on his gas. I said "It must be tough on you driving for so many hours a day", he looked at me from his rear view mirror and said "well I have a family to feed, I have not much of a choice right?". I said "Yes...so tell me how many hours you drive a day?". His reply sheepishly was, "16 to 18hours". I kept silent. I should not torture the poor driver anymore by reminding him how hard he works for his family. He deserved much more.
I requested him to turn on the radio saying it'll help both of us feel less sleepy. Guess what was playing on the radio? Irony...the station was playing that old hokkien song "Ai Pia Jiak Eh Yiak" (translation - To Win You Need to Work Hard). What a sorry day.
Thank god before the song had chance to finish, I arrived at the hotel. NT1,200 poorer.
I wished I was somewhere more familiar where I could at least talk. It's been just 30mins but I felt bored already. Are my business trips getting boring through the years? I remembered when I was still a 22 year old when most of my business trips seemed like a new experience. I was so fascinated by the sights and sounds and smells of a foreign land. Fast forwarding back to now, I just felt that things have pretty much changed. My thoughts on business travel are now so darn boring I rather spend time lazing around at home, resting, spending time with my family. I believe exploration of a foreign place should best be left to holiday-ing rather than on a business trip.
60mins later, I'am back in the hotel room with a pack of BBQ snacks. There are 4 sticks all together, 1 stick of chicken liver, 1 stick of spring onions wrapped with bacon, 2 sticks of chicken backside. (FYI- each stick comes with 4 pieces of meat). I feel tired, my back hurts and aches, my mind's completely on hibernation mode. It took my 15mins and CNN plus 2 cans of Oolong tea to gobble that sinful chunk of food down. I feel much better writing down my feelings. Oh shesssh...I have got my morning call at 0630hrs. I still have tonnes of email to clear from work. I wonder whether I'll be able to breathe.Sorry, I guess the topic "Taiwan-Taipei" seems much more meaningful if it was "Business travel gets boring in Taipei", then again, it's such a pity being in Taipei but not being able to really write much about the place.
Ok, it doesn't help much that the driver of the airport taxi fell asleep while driving me to the hotel. I could count the number of times he fell asleep, it was at least 4~5 times. I could have sworn he was getting some shut eye while driving at 120km/h. He was driving and swinging lanes, braking for no reason. I was practically silent in the taxi. I was tired too, I understood him. I broke the silence after observing him stopping at a traffic junction for at least 30secs before he woke up and stepped on his gas. I said "It must be tough on you driving for so many hours a day", he looked at me from his rear view mirror and said "well I have a family to feed, I have not much of a choice right?". I said "Yes...so tell me how many hours you drive a day?". His reply sheepishly was, "16 to 18hours". I kept silent. I should not torture the poor driver anymore by reminding him how hard he works for his family. He deserved much more.
I requested him to turn on the radio saying it'll help both of us feel less sleepy. Guess what was playing on the radio? Irony...the station was playing that old hokkien song "Ai Pia Jiak Eh Yiak" (translation - To Win You Need to Work Hard). What a sorry day.
Thank god before the song had chance to finish, I arrived at the hotel. NT1,200 poorer.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Is Prada sharing the same vision as LG?
“We at LG are exceptionally proud of the PRADA Phone by LG” says Dr. Scott Ahn, President & CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. He continues, “The two companies have worked together seamlessly towards a truly shared vision, to develop one of the most beautifully stylish handsets the market has ever seen.” Visiting LG Headquarters in Seoul, Korea, Mr. Patrizio Bertelli, President and CEO of PRADA, said: "As we do with ready-to-wear and accessories, we were looking at a break-through. Consistent with our approach, we are not branding an existing product; rather, Miuccia and I have been working with LG to give this new phone a very strong character and unique style, both in its contents and in its design. We, just like our partners at LG, are known for the attention to detail and uncompromising quality of our products. And we find these characteristics in the new mobile phone."
I still wonder which brand equity is stronger? Italian Design meets Korean Quality or should it be Korean Design meets Italian Quality? Well until I actually see and test the product will I know. At the moment, I'll stick to my good ole' Nokia 8800 Gun metal limited edition. Oh yeah, the battery life leaves more the be desired.
Do we need a floating stage?
I don't know how to answer that question. But it seem that the main reason for one is because it is a WORLD's FIRST and LARGEST Floating stage.
Frankly, I don't think it'll make the bay area look more impressive. I still like the old bay area where you could see the busy clifford pier. You could enjoy a quiet stroll and watch the cityscape at night. In a few years, you'll have The Singapore Flyer, The Casinos, The Dam, The Link Bridge and you think to yourself, is this the place I once loved?
Are we trying too hard to impress? I hope it does not become like what we did to Chinatown. Don't you agree that less is more?
Saturday, April 28, 2007
How does it feel being No. 2, GM?
Does it matter who's no. 1?
GM Chief Executive Rick Wagoner said his company has room for growth worldwide and will forcefully defend its title. "I like being No. 1, and I think our people take pride in it," he told a small group of reporters at GM's headquarters. "It's not something we're going to sit back and let somebody else pass us by."
But why the obsession with being the Global leader in sales volume when your profits are down?
If Toyota does pass GM, Wagoner said he would not be pleased. "It won't be a happy day for me, but I've lost basketball games before in my life. You get ready and you learn and you go back the next day, and that's what we'll do," he said. "We're going to fight to keep the position, and if one day we lose it, we'll fight to get it back." All this said during an interview with AP on Jan 5 2007.
Now that Toyota edged out GM in Q1'2007 to become No. 1, Wagoner has cut his base salary by a quarter to $1.65 million in a gesture of support for the auto maker's turnaround efforts. GM Chief Financial Officer Fritz Henderson and product chief Bob Lutz also took pay cuts of 15 percent each, bringing their base salaries to $1.32 million each.
Ok, the point I want to raise is that being No. 1 is never easy. Being No. 1 for 73 years is a feat. But, look at the expense and sacrifices you had to make to be in that leader's position? So GM it's ok to be No. 2 for awhile, take the time to sort out your problems, consolidate your forces outside the US, concentrate on investing in your R&D to make the Chevy Volt a reality. Take a break. Breathe.
The ball is now in Toyota's court. Toyota. The paranoia has started, you desired to be the No. 1. You chased and trailed from No. 2, you finally caught up and won just by an inch. Get ready, coz now you'll have to watch your back.
Wait, isn't the American press so fond of GM bashing because they were No. 1 for so long? Well if you ask me, when the press sings praises about Toyota for too long, it gets boring. Toyota, whatever you do, say, produce, market, sell, your people, your products, your contribution would be scrutinized. Noone said being No. 1 was easy.
Friday, April 27, 2007
SHIFT_back to THE_FUTURE- NISSAN
Well well well.....Carlos Ghosn. "Le Cost Killer". How could anyone in the automotive industry not know his name. Afterall, he turned around a company on the verge of bankrupcy, axed jobs, shut down plants, set the company on an internal slogan Nissan Revival Plan, then Nissan 180 and finally Nissan Value-up. It's clear he took aggressive steps based on a simple philosophy "Increase profit by reducing cost and chasing the top line revenue". But what they forgot was about the Brand. What Nissan actually stood for, Nissan's DNA, it's core philosophy, it's people, it's talent. The Brand seems just as confuse as it's messages. No longer does people even know what Nissan stands for.
What does the meaning of SHIFT means to the customers (internal and external). Oh yeah, wait...did anyone remember what Carlos said about Hybrid Technology a couple of years ago? He commented in 2005 that hybrid cars makes no sense. He thinks that hybrid cars have not yet come to a point where it matches its cost in terms of usability. He said, "They make a nice story, but they're not a good business story yet because the value is lower than their costs". But in his recent comment in 2007, Ghosn said Nissan would focus increasingly on environment technology, including hybrids and fuel cells, although he said he still considered the petrol-electric hybrids to be a "niche market." I wonder yet again what he meant by hybrids being a "niche market". Is there a concrete technology roadmap that can address or define the future? What does SHIFT_THE_FUTURE mean anymore?
Well if it's from a performance angle, then look at the Skylines and what they did to it's heritage. It looks no different from a Fairlady.
Enough said, you tell me what the future holds. Please we're not even interested in hearing about how you will get another 1,500 Japanese workers out of jobs through early retirement.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Tranquility - How simple life can be?
"photo of my fish tank - nature at home"We can't save the whole world from global warming but at least I'am doing my part to ensure that my fishes don't suffer in the tank. If only the world's eco system could be that simple. But wait...isn't the world like a fish tank afterall? But if the world's a fish tank, aren't we the fishes?
But if we're the fishes aren't we destroying our own tank? If only life could be so simple like the fishes in the tank when and only if they have a responsible and devoted master. At least the fishes aren't as smart as humans are, if not they'll start destroyng their own eco system just like how we did to ours.
If only life was so simple. Simpletons.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Crabs and Prawns
Crabs and Prawns. What's the best way of eating them? First, you've got to find them. I've got to mentioned this little coffeeshop by a small Jetty in Penang. It's beside a small temple deep in the heart of a small row of chinese terrace houses. You'll see an old 'wayang' stage and an old lighthouse and you can't help but imagine the times when couples shared a romantic moment while enjoying the chinese theatre and making out beneath the lighthouse.
It's one of those scene when you feel a touch of nostalgia and surreality. Just frozen in time eternal. As you approach one of the outdoor tables, an old auntie will ask you "You want Crab or Prawns?".
I ordered 1Kg of crabs and 1/2Kg of Prawns for both my wife and myself. You see the problem with this place is that they serve just Crabs and Prawns, the only cooking method is by baking above charcoal. So don't expect a plate of Chili, Pepper, Tomato crab. If auntie would have heard that, she'll probably think you're crap.Look at those red and golden orange beauties. Dip that into the sweet chili sauce and you'll have no regrets about having to share your food with the dozens of houseflies attracted to the rich baked aroma.
By the time we realized, damage was already done.
Alright now on where to find the place.
Sea Pearl Lagoon Cafe
338, Mk. 18, Jln Tanjung Tokong
Penang
Opening Hours: 12.30pm - 10pm. (Closed on Wednesday)
Rating: 8/10
Monday, April 23, 2007
Not Honda Bashing - Can F1 make the world a greener place?
Still not quite sure what went through the minds of those guys at Honda F1.
Well initially, I thought it was a brilliant idea having the whole world map painted on a Honda F1 car. I was telling myself..."my god, Honda snatched yet another 1st". I still have to agree it was a great marketing pitch, using F1 as a platform to tell the millions of F1 / automotive fans out there that Honda is serious about being GREEN. But hell no, when you think about the amount of emissions with octane and carbon monoxide spewing from the V8 engine, it was such a double standard that sends such mixed messages out to what Honda stood for. (The Power Of Dreams).
When they launched the WE LOVE CHALLENGES campaign back in 2006, they communicated on MTV and DISCOVERY how the FC-X (H+O=H2O) was so advanced. Their claims were definately a better one as compared to Toyota. But think hard, when was the last time you heard Honda bringing that technology into a commercial production car? I don't need someone with a development story when there is infact no actual product prove in the market.
Back to F1, the Honda team this season is Saving the World by F1 emissions and unfortunately not performing better than the Super A cars which are using last year's Honda's Engine.
My wish for Honda is that if you had a dream, please dream about the future today. If you wanted to really make a difference, why not talk to the world about developing Hybrid Engines on your F1 cars and making a V6 Engine Hybrid system that performs like a V8. Oh yes, while still maintaining the car weight the same. Hmm...it's still my dream because in reality, I do believe that the batter would weight twice as much as the car.
No Honda, I'am not bashing you. But please don't even make a green F1 car just by painting the world map on it. The world as a brand doesn't endorse your believe.
Hybrid Technology...
Alright, I guess most of you guys have heard about Hybrid Technology.
What is Hybrid Technology - for beginners, it is a car which runs on gasoline engine and an electric motor. Simple isn't it?
Then there is the Series Hybrid - basically a gasoline engine running in series to provide kinectic energy from driving the engine and coverting it into electric energy via a converter. The eletric energy then charges up a battery which in turn drives an electric motor to make the car move.
Shall I continue? Then came Parallel Hybrid. It runs like a normal gasoline car but is able to combine electric power from the motor/generator to deliver additional power to drive the car. An example of such Hybrid is the Honda Civic. The Honda Civic runs on the usual VTEC engine but is able to deliver more power that the usual engine capacity because of the IMA (Innovative Motor Assist), which is the motor. The car performs like a 2litre but is infact only a 1.5litre.
Then there is the Series-Parallel Hybrid which Toyota developed and pioneered. It is much more a complex system because it has 2 generators (1 dedicated generator to deliver electrical energy the other which functions like that in the Parallel Hybrid system). The HSD (Hybrid Synergy Drive) has a power split devices which can deliver power concurrently (1 to the battery, 1 to the wheels). It also runs in synergy due to the planetary gears which ensures that at each driving conditions, the car functions at its optimum combination of Battery, Engine, Kinectic (re-generative braking).
Ok, so much for the complexities. I doubt anyone can really see the big difference. After all a Hybrid car is still a hybrid car. What a hybrid cars made for? Well I guess the big picture is to SAVE THE WORLD by reducing CO2 emissions and reduce the rate of the depletion of planet's earth resource. But are people willing to pay the price to save the world? Sadly in Asia, we're still not at the stage to understand how 1 hybrid car can help combat global warming. We can't even afford a Hybrid Car, if you compare the price of Prius versus a Camry. (1.5 versus 2.0) - same price.
Yet again, automakers have to play a part in educating consumers on the benefits of Hybrid if they intend to sell it at that premium price. One food for thought is that other than Hybrids, they should not forget alternative technologies like fuel cell, alternate fuels, hydrogen etc. With so many technologies, why aren't manufacturers spending enough of their budgets on consumer education?
ROI? Well clearly not many are confident in spending budgets for long term ROI because not many out there have a confident technology roadmap that can deliver the promise to reducing emissions. Paradox isn't it?
What is Hybrid Technology - for beginners, it is a car which runs on gasoline engine and an electric motor. Simple isn't it?
Then there is the Series Hybrid - basically a gasoline engine running in series to provide kinectic energy from driving the engine and coverting it into electric energy via a converter. The eletric energy then charges up a battery which in turn drives an electric motor to make the car move.
Shall I continue? Then came Parallel Hybrid. It runs like a normal gasoline car but is able to combine electric power from the motor/generator to deliver additional power to drive the car. An example of such Hybrid is the Honda Civic. The Honda Civic runs on the usual VTEC engine but is able to deliver more power that the usual engine capacity because of the IMA (Innovative Motor Assist), which is the motor. The car performs like a 2litre but is infact only a 1.5litre.
Then there is the Series-Parallel Hybrid which Toyota developed and pioneered. It is much more a complex system because it has 2 generators (1 dedicated generator to deliver electrical energy the other which functions like that in the Parallel Hybrid system). The HSD (Hybrid Synergy Drive) has a power split devices which can deliver power concurrently (1 to the battery, 1 to the wheels). It also runs in synergy due to the planetary gears which ensures that at each driving conditions, the car functions at its optimum combination of Battery, Engine, Kinectic (re-generative braking).
Ok, so much for the complexities. I doubt anyone can really see the big difference. After all a Hybrid car is still a hybrid car. What a hybrid cars made for? Well I guess the big picture is to SAVE THE WORLD by reducing CO2 emissions and reduce the rate of the depletion of planet's earth resource. But are people willing to pay the price to save the world? Sadly in Asia, we're still not at the stage to understand how 1 hybrid car can help combat global warming. We can't even afford a Hybrid Car, if you compare the price of Prius versus a Camry. (1.5 versus 2.0) - same price.
Yet again, automakers have to play a part in educating consumers on the benefits of Hybrid if they intend to sell it at that premium price. One food for thought is that other than Hybrids, they should not forget alternative technologies like fuel cell, alternate fuels, hydrogen etc. With so many technologies, why aren't manufacturers spending enough of their budgets on consumer education?
ROI? Well clearly not many are confident in spending budgets for long term ROI because not many out there have a confident technology roadmap that can deliver the promise to reducing emissions. Paradox isn't it?
Are automotive brands ignoring Asian youth's spending power?
Have you ever wondered what drives people to buy a Toyota?
Well if you drive one, you probably fall into the category of the rational buyers who place their trust in a brand which promises Quality Durability and Reliability. But does it every strike you how important branding plays a part in your purchase decision? In today's crowded market place, most of the brands deliver the same promise but what exactly is the compelling reason why you make your purchase a Toyota? Why is it so that Toyota fails to capture the youth? The simple answer is that Toyota no longer has a product line that is affordable to youth in Asia. It no longer has an entry level car which has the price to attract the youth of Asia. The product line up today has positioned Toyota as a premium car brand. This premium image have left many unable to purchase the Toyota brand they aspire to have.
Instead, you have youth switching to cheaper 2box Korean hatches, even worst you have entrants of the Chinese brands like the Cherry QQ or the Chevy Spark (GM Daewoo) falling into the range of affordabilty. Unfortunately, you rarely see automotive makers taking the lead in captivating the youth and speaking to them in the language they want to be spoken.
If you look at Scion (Brand extension of Toyota - only in the US), they have done a great deal understanding the youth and cultivating a loyal following. Look at how Scion concentrated on customization, pure pricing and using non-traditional media to speak out to them. Secondlife is a perfect example of creating another touch point for the youth to self discover the whole brand experience that Scion has to offer.
If only automakers recognize the long term ROI that this market has to offer. It's not as easy as just sponsoring X-Games as what Kia has done. I don't believe that by just sponsorship, the youth would be drawn to associating Kia as a youth brand. It is how the brand speaks to them.
So go ahead brand managers, speak to your future consumers. Talk to them and show them you understand them. Appear in where they fill at home. Use media that reaches out to them. How many times do you have to be convinced and take them more seriously?
Go down to their grassroots, fan their burning energy and passion for a cause. Shouldn't it be time to invest in the future? Educate them on the power of hybrid technology, let them understand that their future lies in their actions. Talk to them about Global Warming, make it fun, inclusive and take the youth seriously.
When will you listen?
Well if you drive one, you probably fall into the category of the rational buyers who place their trust in a brand which promises Quality Durability and Reliability. But does it every strike you how important branding plays a part in your purchase decision? In today's crowded market place, most of the brands deliver the same promise but what exactly is the compelling reason why you make your purchase a Toyota? Why is it so that Toyota fails to capture the youth? The simple answer is that Toyota no longer has a product line that is affordable to youth in Asia. It no longer has an entry level car which has the price to attract the youth of Asia. The product line up today has positioned Toyota as a premium car brand. This premium image have left many unable to purchase the Toyota brand they aspire to have.
Instead, you have youth switching to cheaper 2box Korean hatches, even worst you have entrants of the Chinese brands like the Cherry QQ or the Chevy Spark (GM Daewoo) falling into the range of affordabilty. Unfortunately, you rarely see automotive makers taking the lead in captivating the youth and speaking to them in the language they want to be spoken.
If you look at Scion (Brand extension of Toyota - only in the US), they have done a great deal understanding the youth and cultivating a loyal following. Look at how Scion concentrated on customization, pure pricing and using non-traditional media to speak out to them. Secondlife is a perfect example of creating another touch point for the youth to self discover the whole brand experience that Scion has to offer.
If only automakers recognize the long term ROI that this market has to offer. It's not as easy as just sponsoring X-Games as what Kia has done. I don't believe that by just sponsorship, the youth would be drawn to associating Kia as a youth brand. It is how the brand speaks to them.
So go ahead brand managers, speak to your future consumers. Talk to them and show them you understand them. Appear in where they fill at home. Use media that reaches out to them. How many times do you have to be convinced and take them more seriously?
Go down to their grassroots, fan their burning energy and passion for a cause. Shouldn't it be time to invest in the future? Educate them on the power of hybrid technology, let them understand that their future lies in their actions. Talk to them about Global Warming, make it fun, inclusive and take the youth seriously.
When will you listen?
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Business Travel - 10 ways to make it fruitful
#1
Check in 48 hours early to get that row 32.
(Last IN, First OUT)
#2
Use the lounge (have a beer, drink a coke, surf the net)
#3
Shop. Go to the DFS and get save that 7% GST, 10% Discount for PPS/DFS.
#4
Change just enough cash that your travel allowance allows.
#5
When you arrive at the destination, act blur and follow your boss lead. He'll be paying for the taxi, so don't be a smart ass to offer paying.
#6
When you arrive at the Hotel, whip out your loyalty card. Claim miledge on your Airline Loyalty, Get free upgrades if possible, Check if you have free wi-fi or broadband.
#7
Wake up early to enjoy your breakfast. You're having a bloody business trip, so pamper yourself. Noone's gonna feel sorry for you if you missed having that American Breakfast buffet.
#8
Have the business trip agenda ready. Arrange your meetings so you wake up late and arrive early enough for the meeting.
#9
Have meetings during lunch, this way, the other party have no choice but to order lunch for yourself.
#10
Leave 3 hours early before your flight. It's a darn good excuse to end that boring meeting pre-maturely. Noone's gonna ask you to stay so you can miss your flight.
Check in 48 hours early to get that row 32.
(Last IN, First OUT)
#2
Use the lounge (have a beer, drink a coke, surf the net)
#3
Shop. Go to the DFS and get save that 7% GST, 10% Discount for PPS/DFS.
#4
Change just enough cash that your travel allowance allows.
#5
When you arrive at the destination, act blur and follow your boss lead. He'll be paying for the taxi, so don't be a smart ass to offer paying.
#6
When you arrive at the Hotel, whip out your loyalty card. Claim miledge on your Airline Loyalty, Get free upgrades if possible, Check if you have free wi-fi or broadband.
#7
Wake up early to enjoy your breakfast. You're having a bloody business trip, so pamper yourself. Noone's gonna feel sorry for you if you missed having that American Breakfast buffet.
#8
Have the business trip agenda ready. Arrange your meetings so you wake up late and arrive early enough for the meeting.
#9
Have meetings during lunch, this way, the other party have no choice but to order lunch for yourself.
#10
Leave 3 hours early before your flight. It's a darn good excuse to end that boring meeting pre-maturely. Noone's gonna ask you to stay so you can miss your flight.
Forgotten Spaces
Spaces, Forgotten Spaces,
Frozen in winter's breath.
If only the trees could tell,
have you heard what they say?
Betrayal, Despair...
Decades of empty promises.
Fumes, Toxic fumes,
The stench of deception.
Carbon Dioxide.
Will we ever listen?
Frozen in winter's breath.
If only the trees could tell,
have you heard what they say?
Betrayal, Despair...
Decades of empty promises.
Fumes, Toxic fumes,
The stench of deception.
Carbon Dioxide.
Will we ever listen?
Contemplation
Only when you started the slow down,
Ponder about noticing the unimportant.
Understand the true meaning,
Learn from the mistakes unfolded.
Engross into finding the truth,
Nurture the values you cherish.
Cry for the misled,
Evoke memories of triumph.
DIFFERENTIATED.
Ponder about noticing the unimportant.
Understand the true meaning,
Learn from the mistakes unfolded.
Engross into finding the truth,
Nurture the values you cherish.
Cry for the misled,
Evoke memories of triumph.
DIFFERENTIATED.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
