ONCE...TeAM's 9MP Dialogue

There was a big turnout at the event last night. Achieve the target of 150 pax..full house really. So now have better understanding on the allocation, focus and direction with regards to MOSTI's plan or mandate for 9MP. The various agencies and its roles, and of course MDEC and MBC (Malaysia Biotechnology Corporation) was the main focus as we want to understand what is it for ICT and Biotec.

We were fortunate because we got a chance to watch the trailer and behind-the-scene of Saladin. It's an animated TV series (10-12 series) that'll be on-air soon in our TV. Really good quality man!!! And all done by our MALAYSIAN !!!

It's no secret that some Malaysians did a job for those big animation companies. But, they're just part of Spiderman or Shrek or Star Wars. So MDEC took the lead, get all the relevant industry players and come up with Saladin. If you've watched Shrek, Nemo, Ice Age and LOTR, I'm telling you...your eyes will be gleefully enlarged, touched and proud, that we do and able to make such GOOD animation movies. Dunno about Cicakman though but knowing KRU, bet they'll make a good one.

So, watch out for those two CGI-based movies MADE in MALAYSIA by MALAYSIAN for the WORLD !!!

ONCE...another resignation

Two weeks ago she said whe might resign to follow her future husband (after marriage) to Sarawak. There's job waiting there. But, after giving some advice and time to think, she came back with "I've decided to stay." And today, came and put the letter on my table. "Why?"..as always, my standard question. "Not in Sarawak or Sabah. But, here in Peninsular." I asked her to submit to LC as I told earlier.

No wonder, the past few days I was really angry with the way things goes. What being said was not the same as what being on her mind or rather her heart as I guess she barely use her head (hahahaha...). What pissed me off today is not that she wanna resign. It'd a relief to me and after that incident, I want her to go. But, really, the fact is after her decision that day, my plan executed on her being the only PM. Then, lot of things are pending, not properly managed thus causing lots of trouble to programmers and all because, she's resigning. And only today (or perhaps yesterday) that she made the decision. "Been doing lots of thinking.." was one of the answer when I asked why. So, while the "thinking"...things doesn't move....sadly though.

On my way to the office, I was thinking that I would need to really micro manage and monitor all the project movements. Turn out, it'll be lot simpler. Don't have to think about what she felt and later how to manage that, but really manage my team!

ONCE...babysitting again

My wife had to come to her office last Saturday, so we postponed our "outing" to PA. So, am "babysitting" again. Why the quote ? Mostly, mama, ateh & acik took care of them. Mama fed them lunch, ateh get my son to sleep, then they all took my daughter together for shopping. Left me, my son, angah & baba. And later, when they came back, mama get my daughter to sleep around 5 or 6 plus. Me & son played in the room (or really..watch him played).

Well, frankly..not much that I did. There are times that they're all down there, playing with my kids, then I went up for prayer. But then, to go down, they would need to cover themselves..so I'm letting them to have freedom. That's why I stayed and watched TV instead :D

Anyway, thank you mama, ateh and acik !

ONCE...soooo sleepy

*huarghhhh*...I'm sooo sleepy now. Why aah ? Is it because I slept at 2 am this morning ? But that's my routine. Yet, there are times where I'm energetic and my adrenalin was pumping. Monday blues maybe..?! Heck no !!! It's Wednesday...so, shall we blame the holiday yesterday..hahaha !

The papers that I suppose to do, has been successfully postponed or put down. There's few more, but with this condition...I may fall asleep as I composing the words. It happen to me as I read one of the TeAM Council member's profile, that made me saying "...I need something to get my brain working..let's blog this!". And it also telling me that I need to update my profile for TeAM council's website.

Usually, Orkfia would help a bit, but now waiting for new age..starting tomorrow. And to make it worst, the frequent Orkfian onliner were offline !! Chatted with my wife, tried to use her webcam from her new notebook..but I guess for MSN to work, both need to have the webcam.

Perhaps, I need to go and disturb people...need to walk a bit and talk a bit...need to kick my adrenalin pump faster !!!

ONCE...how's business ?

Met Zul yesterday..one of the favourite questions was "how's business.?". My reply normally to that question was, "bit slow...*sigh*..difficult aa..". "Why aah ? Everybody that I asked, they're all replied the same thing.", Zul said. "Why can't they said..got a little, Alhamdulillah (thank God)..?".

Indirectly telling me that also! Thanks Bro, forgotten how forgetful I am. Even slow, it actually getting better on my side. And as our words is also our prayers, should say lots of nice and positive words..thus nice and positive prayers as well.

ONCE...LCCT

Coming back from Jakarta, AK 957 has lots of some folks. Dunno whether it's their first time flying or what but...they tend to behave like kids. As the gate opens, they race between themselves to get the best seat. I went in last. There's empty spaces that they put their stuffs..and start looking out of the window like nothing happen. Like they own those 3 seats. *sigh* If they're not about the same age as my grandma, I'd have give them the "WTF are u thinking u're doing?!!!" stare..hehehe.

Anyway, as the plane landed, it's about 300-500 metres walk to the Arrival gate. There's pedestrian lane but these old folks (maybe tired) couldn't care less. They just walk on the road like nobody's business and warned the AA's staff that asked them to follow the lane. Heard they complaining "..menyiksa org..jalan jauh2..." Oh well...that's Low Cost for you grandpa !

And of course, 3/4 of the flight are packed with Indonesians ! Bunch of college kids that giving high-5 for no reasons. Errr...am I too old to understand those behaviour already..?! Naahh...not old...just MATURED ! :D

ONCE...jakarta

Went to Jakarta on Monday afternoon. Just 2 days, on social visit ticket..but actually for meeting. First one for my renewed passport! And first time using the LCCT!

It's almost a year since my last visit to Jakarta. Pretty much the same. Just that this time when the taxi goes up to one of the flyover (the tallest..got three layers of FO), I'm "gayat" (Acrophobia-fear of height). Funny though..as I used to do repelling from 8th floor from UiTM Menara, but yet..*sigh*. Later I concluded that perhaps repelling, it's me whose in-control. But this one, the taxi driver. Same goes when Fuad drove me at Puncak Jalil!

Unlike Malaysia, lots of unusual view in Jakarta. The poverty level, people that do odd jobs to make a living, be it good or bad jobs, safe or risky, you name it. Got a chance to see life-demo as well (for the newly revised labor law)..but that delayed my meeting for 1/2 hour.

I tend to love going to Jakarta, but I love my family and Malaysia better. There's no place like Malaysia man !!! Going for days trip for working (mostly..haven't got a chance for pleasure yet) is fine..hopefully won't happen that need to be there for weeks or months. But then, who knows. The discussion has spilt over from IGM to other potential business with my co. Who knows, rezeki there :D !

ONCE...rezeki

I hang out with my mentor and Lan last Tuesday at TTDI. First, I wanna get his blessing on the items that I put in my paper, share the new developments. Glad that it went well. Get some latest development from him as well.

Among other things, he mentioned about "rezeki". Comparing me in SSSB and now, the progress is tremendous. The exposure, knowledge and experience has made me greater than who I am in SSSB. "That's rezeki!" he said. "Rezeki" shall not be regarded as "higher salary" only in moving from one place to another. Opportunity to work internationally, exposure to corporate world at large, opportunity to learn new stuffs, acquire new skills, gain more knowledge and experiences, chances to be close to the BIG boss; "those are also rezeki", he said.

He asked from God on the knowledge that can't be thought by human. And I believed, he got it! The analysis and summary that he gave on the big picture of current "situation", really impressed the top people who is INSIDE. As he is from OUTSIDE, yet able to see it clearly based on the simptoms and activities that was happening..I am definitely impressed (wished I has that knowledge as well...can't wait to go to Mecca). Just that for him, it kinda back-fire. Now, has lots to do. However, as far as I can assist...I will !

ONCE...moving to KL Sentral

It is confirmed that we are moving to KL Sentral. Latest by Jun 2006. LC went with the Feng Shui master in the afternoon. For my seating position, it'll be odd to make it a room there. So, there'll be one room (for her only), and the rest will be open-spaces. Server room also tarak (well, there's no real need for it anyway). Meeting room may be shared with IGM downstairs.

The rental is cheap compared to where we are now. The savings are about RM 55k a year. More than enough to cover our est renovation cost at RM 35k (min). We'll reuse all the cubicles and particitions, and whatever we can reuse from the current one. Parking is free there. And if the meeting room is occupied, there's always Starbucks or McD or KFC or Nasi Ayam restaurant available in Sentral Station or (if money not an issue), there's Hilton and Le Meridien next door as well. Public transport is fantastic...I mean in terms of availability and accessibility.

Just need to think, how to handle it next year. As MRCB Corporate office moving there (so does my wife), where to send our children ? Shall we move to KL ? Rental/buy ? If stay in SA, transport ? Maid or new babysitter ? Hmmm...there's 8 months to go...hope it's plenty of time to do whatever necessary and get the best (or ideal at least) solution for it.

ONCE...kedahans

I was in Kedah over the weekend. Taking the chance of visiting Mak Tuk (the whole lot went back in fact) as I've a meeting in UUM. The meeting went good, hope it'll turn out as an order.

That night, Baba asked me to follow him (since Mama & the gang went back already), looking for durians he said. Went to a bazaar at Meregong, saw some durians but didn't buy any. Then, Baba said "cok udang..sedap..", well okey I thought to buy some home. But, he sat down, ordered 2 cok udang and drinks. Hehehe..just felt odd for dunno what reason. And more shameful as he paid for it. Which later he asked, "Kontrak apa dok buat la nie ?" (What kind of projects are you working on now?)..where the reply goes, nothing new yet. And that's the reason he told my wife, as the story goes. Then, we head on to his friend's house (it's 9 pm), he told me about Alor Star during his teenage days, the buildings and events there...and then talked about his work.

He easily became tired nowadays. And how energetic Mama is, she didn't take a nap at the office (which he did, to regain his strength), but woke-up early morning, preparing breakfast (sometimes 2-3 types), go to work, non-stop working there, then coming back straight away preparing dinner, wash clothes, fold the washed ones...and that explains why sometimes...mama can fall asleep while reading newspapers. She'll collapse by 10 am...she needs all the rest though.

Well, actually what I wanted to blog is, the number of people at the bazaar. It's 7.30 pm, Maghrib (there's surau there btw). We're musafir, so it's okey. But, the bazaar was packed with people, eating !!! There's so many delicacies to choose from, from light to heavy dishes. And it's cheap as well. It'll be great if we can stay in Kedah, enjoy the cheap but good food, fisheries, goodies and stuffs, but in KL's paycheck ! That'll be heaven I'm telling you.

Hope UUM will engage our service, so that we can go back more frequently to Kedah. Thinking of using train next time, but the idea was shot down by the gang. Guess I'll take it if I'm going back alone.

ONCE...memories

I was waiting for my contractor to do site visit at my school. I was sitting at the bench near Surau, then memories of student days came to my mind. Here where I used to hang out, study-cum-dating with my GF (my wife now), doing KSK's activities and stuffs. My batch was among the first to move into the new building. The state of the buildings, lecture halls chairs like tidal wave, hahaha...it's not fully completed when we moved in.

But, one thing for sure, Apip & I has been to every inch in that building. Before we officially move, we went there to explore. Go into every classroom, lecture halls, lecturer rooms, labs, water reservoir, toilets (yes, both of them at top floor), dean's room, faculty's meeting room and on the roof!

Then, the memories continues with the friends and foes, stories, events and so many other things...sweet and painful. Then, for dunno what reason, one name poped-up...rahna ?! (don't u tease me on this at home okey honey ?!) It reminds me on the secret admirer's letter that I received, the teasing from friends and GF, the shocked when I knew who's she (but she doesn't know that I know), the trauma (so-to-speak) that I had.

Anyway, the sweetest of all in TMSK...is definitely my WIFE ! Who made me to chase for it for 3 years, as I got my Diploma, I got her confirmation ! Then, another 3 years (as she was studying) before we got married. During that 1st 3 yrs..hahaha..with rejection and all. *I love you honeyy!*

Ahh...yesterday, Fith dropped by to my office. He's with BAT, doing 1st level support. Still the same style and character! Anyway, the new building for TMSK (additional actually) is really nice. Visited the lab (and one area where the site supervisor was dead..falling down from 3rd floor), and the lab is fabulous! Wished to be a student again :D

ONCE...office reform(6)

Yesterday, handover session started. The plan is AD#1 to take-over all the projects managed by AD#2 except for IGM. I'll handle that myself.

Sales meeting just now, BDM really need to buckle-up. BDE has met 50% of the quarterly target, and the way she asked BDM just now was like she's the BDM actually. But, as I want everybody to be open and outspoken, can't blame her. Just that I felt like, you also has deals that was stucked there without closing for months.

LC asked TM about the transition. And I mentioned that I'm going to take-over on IGM. "That expensive haa..?! Cannot ! Over-qualified..too expensive!". Since, it's friendly party project, and Dev#1 is very much involved in the operations already (travelling to Medan few times and again next Tue, to Port Klang and Penang to meet the members and stuffs), he can manage it. It also can be a safe learning bed for him on project management.

Starting next week, the tech team will look into refining the products, make sure they're tested thoroughly...and regressedly. If need to run it for months, so be it!!! Will brief Dev#1 on his new assignment next week. Will have a big presentation first thing Mon morning. Hope everything will go smooth.

We're debating about moving to Sentral. But, really need to consider all the cost that may involve like renovation, moving, air-cond & stuffs. MSC status also another concern. LC talked to KC, on TARC bit slow..not moving as fast as we expected. He said that he believed that we can work together for long-term. "What do you read from it ?" LC asked me, "emm...they're not coming that soon ?". Well, probably. Their next board meeting would be end of May. Won't be that soon then. With our situation now, perhaps it's good also.

Idris had his BTP published very nice. I'm yet to have mine (well..u're not the CEO..bluerkh..doesn't matter..i need to have one !). I'll follow suit very closely...watch me :D !

ONCE...farewell Sharry!

Oh well...today's the day. Wish her all the best and keep in touch (kalu sudi). Sorry for everything (as I'm the evil). Have not looked at the Handover report, hope it's as what I've been expecting. But then if it is not, just have to make do with it. Can't expect or get her to come back here and finish it isn't it.

I believe she can fly on her new endeavour. If I believed she can take-over from TM, she'll able to do it anywhere else for that matter. Will I hear more from her after this..? Dunno and can't say. No doubt, it's being quite quiet since I heard the news. I'm adopting and learning to familiarize myself with what I've learnt. So, definitely people that used to be close to me will feel the distance...at least not the barrier. Will slowly build that barrier.

Well...since she's one of the Xs, and being one of the fav, I'm offering to extend the friendship. Accepted or not..i leave it to God. Okeh..enough sentimental already. Good luck !!!

ONCE...first TeAM Council Meeting

It supposed to be a grand entrance for the "challenger" but Dash has blew it up! "I've SMS everybody saying that Haizam is coming" Well, it's the first also for 2006, I'm joining the University's trust (hope i spelled it correctly). The meeting went in jovial mood, serious when it required too..mostly laughter and joy. Renu did warned Eliza (the new Exec Secretary) that the members are nice in the first meeting, but they'll be very nasty after this. But, Jay enjoyed it previously, so hope she'd enjoy it as well.

It's good turn-out last night. Few projects were discussed for 2006. Doc W shared some projects and initiatives for TeAM. Since, the exciting stories were between the 4 walls of Farith office, I'd stick to that. Briefly, it'd be a good atmosphere for entreprenuers especially start-ups.

Meeting and dinner concluded just before 11 pm. And I manage to arrive home on time (as syarat from honey..but she arrived home at 4 am :( )

ONCE...night shift

The past 3-4 weeks has been a hectic time for my wife. Especially last week and this week. The presentation and demo to CEO has put tremendous pressure on the team to ensure everything is OK! Furthermore, the CEO wants to see the report from actual data...meaning the people need to use the system start March 1. And as she needs to go to office during weekends, I'll babysit the children. And this week, Monday and Tuesday, I went home earlier than usual. Ermm...last Wed/Thu/Fri also if I'm not mistaken. But, Tuesday was the worst I can say. Shit happens and the team need to rectify the problems. And she needs to wait for them to rectify for her to test and key-in data for demo. Worsen as I also have some things to do for IGM and have another discussion after that.

So, I arrived home around 3.30 am, get my daughter to sleep, freshen-up myself. Next thing I know, Subuh already. She went back at 5.30 am. Then, she got half-day break after the presentation. And it is confirmed that they're moving to KL Sentral next year. Waa...since we're also debating to move there...guess it's a good thing. NO?!! From PA to Bangsar..? Who gonna look after the kids, who gonna pick them up ? Move to Suasana ?! If got money, no problem! But, she doesn't like apartment. And, I prefer not to raise my children in KL (don't ask me why!). But, let see how things move. Still plenty of time to think it over.

Talking about my wife's work this week...it reminds me about something that I've been pondering for a couple of weeks. When people do love what they do, they'll do the best and to certain extend, do whatever it takes to ensure the delivery is good and of high quality. But, when there's no love anymore..or perhaps..focus changed, liking changed or preferences changed, those quality kinda dropped. It's not like what it used to be before. Eventhough I tried to understand that people are excited about pursuing new things, but don't drop the standards lah. It reflects the image and perhaps the reputation and impression. High regards that people have, probably has been reduced. Emm...no, reduced would be too bad. But dissappointed to some people that expecting to see quality products (still) when the days are counting. Personal BRANDING is at stake here!

Talking about personal branding, really has to skip the seminar this morning. Need to focus on the slides for president next week. Hope it'll turn out good.

p/s: my wife still in the office...and i'm still waiting :D

ONCE...feng shui

Last Sunday, LC called to ask about my birth date. She's with Feng Shui master at our office. So, the FS master said that most of us (LC, me and BDM) are in West group except Tony in the East. So, West group need to face South West. He suggested I change my table direction to face the door. LC need to switch with the meeting room, pantry need to be closed, BDM need to take the round table area..so, need to re-arrange the whole Tech & BD area accordingly. My area and LC's need to be separated properly (put a door at the corridor) to curb the energy (for now it's lost, doesn't retain inside). The best 'wealth' energy is at Adx place. Well, coincidently, they've been working on few big projects which seems promising lately...but, being a Muslim we can't say that's the whole reason for that.

I'll take the energy part, positioning that may create better energy, environment, with lighting and stuffs. Perhaps, when the environment is good, energy is high, then we work more efficient and thus create more wealth (i.e. more projects coming in, more money coming in). It's not that once we change the positioning and direction, the wealth will come. Still need to work hard and work smart!

ONCE...office reform(5)

Skipped last week's progress report. Kinda busy week till next week. Have lots of activities; presentation and demo to potential customers, MGS's site visit, technical due diligence by potential investors and stuffs.

Last week, IGM has started recruiting members and Dev#1 went to Medan to enrol the members and to have a feel on the processes. Liked his report though, kinda novel. He went there again on Tuesday. Supposedly a one-day trip became three-days trauma. Poor Dev#1, but it's a hard-lesson learnt by everybody on IGM.

Presentation and demo for Tech DD by DP is ready. Tech DD on Thu was quite fruitful, but there's still more documents need to be vetted. Demo and review on other docs will be done on Tue 28 Feb. Site visit by MGS was postponed to a later date to be confirmed by MDC. Demo to DG also postponed from Wed to Mon 27 Feb. Meeting with BCB on Tue went quite good and there will be another round with them on Wed 1 Mar. Fri morning meet with CIDB on enhancement of GC.

TM managed to produce the cards for IGM on Wed morning (at 4 am), prepared demo sets for DP and training SHRDC. AD#1 busy with NLM's implementation last week and preparing for MGS site visit after that. AD#2 busy with AAN, IGM, Museum and other documents that she need to prepare for her departure. Prog001 came to support as Dev#1 flew to Medan, Prog002 (TM) was occupied with MGS and IGM.

Payment for NLM received already. Museum should come soon. As I need to look into detail in tech, I've informed LC that I can't look into sales/operation as well. So, no COO for now. Hope everything will go well with DP, and if DP really come in, I'll definitely propose for the betterment of the team (remuneration, motivation, human capital dev, etc).

ONCE...tasbih Mekah

Finally, manage to visit my mentor yesterday since he came back from Haj. Glad to meet him (as my wife put it, " suka la jumpa mentor dia tu.."). He gave me the tasbih that he brought along during his tawaf, and also taught me some zikr to be practised (amalkan); al-Ghani and al-Mughni.

We updated each other on current status and activities, future endeavour and friends'. Pity AK! He's being framed by his close-friend. Spent holidays together, know family well, being friend for a year or so (hope I heard him correctly). Then, when things turned ugly, report, take action and make sure he got what he deserved! Which is damaging his career, ruining his reputation and life. "Better don't fight with people." was my mentor's advice.

It made me think. As I don't have that many friends. Some friendship was formed while working together in projects or some business prospects. Some with my staffs. But, off recent, I was made to realized that..you can't be friends (or perhaps close-friends) with your staffs (yes honey...i know u've reminded me on this for soooo many times..! :p ). To some extend, they may not respect you as a boss/leader..if they're still do, it's much lesser than what it is used to be before I became...or rather I made them my close-friend. It happened since the beginning of my career..and it took me 8 years to realize and accept it (with 4 years of ignorance of honey's advice)!

Well..better late than never! Need to learn slowly in changing that. As long as they're my staffs, DO NOT make them my friends (ex(s) will be an excuse la). The distinction has to be clear (sadly).

Back to my mentor, spent about 2 hours, got some advice and tips, tried to dwell on the current politics, but reading from his response, better stay away (or rather behind-the-scene) than exposing. "I'll call you when I'm free.", glad and scared also hearing that. Just like that morning..hehehe..

ONCE...shocking!!!

*sigh* ...talking about 99% preparation, I'm not prepared for this 1% none-inspiration at all !!! Even though I kinda imagining it last week, but you know, things that I imagined, doesn't come true all the time. But, this one, turned out to be exactly as I imagined! Dunno why it was quite easy for me to accept the news before...but not this time. Especially, when I was about to ask for some assistance for the few key presentations coming this week, but that news blew it all...I've lost my words, lost my plans, lost the things that I wanna share...speechless...

I've tried very hard not to be emotional..try to take it professionally, and to try to accept it as I once did it. Dunno why it is hard this time. Early today, I made a decision of putting all my thoughts and efforts on the work/job-in hand. Not so much on heart and feelings. It's going to be a very busy week for me. But, this morning, I has to deal with heart & feelings. Would need to put myself back on track.

MGS site visit was postponed..what a breather! Tonite, TeAM's AGM where I'll be nominated as Council member. Hope I'll do good! Really looking forward to meet my mentor. When would I (and him) be free to catch up...

ONCE...decision making

It's not easy to make decision. Especially, when the time is too short to think, pressure is high, expectations mounting and perhaps, no-one to refer to at that time. Ability to decide, is one of the most important criteria in Leaders. Some other criterias are here.

My mentor once told me, "99% perspiration for 1% inspiration". 99% of our time, we need to prepare ourselves for the 1% chance or opportunity. The opportunity may come whenever He likes, and most of the time, when we lease expect it. But, if we have prepared ourselves (99%), when that 1% opportunity rise, we shouldn't think twice anymore to grab it. The same opportunity doesn't come twice! And it doesn't wait for us neither. Either we're up for it (meaning we've prepared 99%) or we're not (no preparation or perhaps less).

Someone pointed out to me that "...decision making: is the job of leaders, and leaders = THE BOSS!". Someone mentioned to me before that Boss and Leader is not the same. Leaders could be the boss, but the boss may not necessarily be a leader. I choose to be a leader..and still learning to be a good leader. In my readings, "..a leader is a good leader when he/she can groom more leaders." To groom more leaders...they must be able to decide! He/she will be groomed when he/she has all the necessary skills and characteristic or potentials to be a good leader. My grooming style, to make them, to be able to make decision. Bad decision..? Learn from it and move on. But, they will always be asked to make decision. And decision making it is, for them to make!

The decision doesn't have to be popular! It doesn't have to be the same with mine! It doesn't have to be in haste! But, it must be made timely! It must be made! Even if the decision is "..i can't decide now. I need x more times.", decision has to be made. Refusing to decide and be dumb doesn't gel nicely with me..provoking or retaliate ? I may take it as, "don't groom me...i don't like your grooming style" or "i don't wanna be your type of leaders" or "...don't wanna be your chosen ones.." or "..u're not a good leader after all, what makes u think u're the best person to groom me..?" or what..?!! Emotional..? hmm...when we hoped, a lot if not so much, then dissappointed..isn't it obvious that we'll be emotional ? Let's just hope, that I can be rational again...and perhaps, able to provide another opportunity to the chosen ones.

In one of my mentor's book, about Mentoring, is that both the mentor and mentee must have an understanding and agreement that the mentee agreed to be mentored by the mentor. I can't recall whether I've seek that agreement or not. But looking at mine and my mentor, it's me who asked him (which I think why he bought that book). In the same organization..? Does the employee (mentee) asked the potential mentor (boss, manager, senior ? ...leaders basically) or the leader itself, does it..and we felt like being mentored ?

For now, I chose my successor(s), I chose who I wanna groom..and I may or may not tell him/her about my intention. It'd be up to him/her to think, evaluate and then decide. And then again, up to me to think, evaluate and decide based on the performance and also acceptance/resistance on my intention.

ONCE...time with BDM

Spent almost 45 minutes with him. Started with discussion on potential projects, then extended to his problems. Lots of effort but still no (or rather very little) sales coming in. He did practiced what he learnt yesterday morning at MDC during his visit at Palm Garden. And he manage to find how to solve one of his problems; Building Rapport! "What's annoying to me is when my gf told me that, apart from my close-friends, customers or office-mates not really like your friend", he said. In other words, he has very little friends.

From SalesDogs, one of Robert Kiyosaki's series, he is the Bulldog type.

   Me   :   When you come in here, what do u understand from my body language ?
   Him  :   err...get out of here..don't bug me now...
   Me   :   Then, what did u do ?
   Him  :   After I start talking, then you listen and we start talking la..
   Me   :   See, you're Bulldog type as categorized in SalesDogs. You have no problem in dig-crash, cold-calling, and when people show that they don't want you there, you still bulldoze and make your way thru. So, when people start entertain you after all that, it could be 2 things; 1, they really interested to know more or 2, they will give you whatever you want as fast as possible so that they can get rid of you in no-time. hahahaha...

I told him that according to SalesDogs, the best salesperson is the one with mix of all breeds. So, he can maximize on the Bulldog, to open doors, create funnels, new contacts and stuffs, and learn new tricks from Golden Retriever or Basset Hound in building rapport. Need to start reading (Chihuahua). And for 28 years the Bulldog has become habit, it'll take time to get new habit(s) kicks-in. So, need to have something to remind you everyday.

Later after prayer, he wanna ask something (short one). I was listening till I yawn at one point. And he quickly, "..perhaps we discuss this some other time..". He probably pick-up my yawning as a sign of not interested or tired, then he don't want to bore me to death with it. Hehehe...forgot to correct him on that. Anyway, will chat with him again later...

Ahh..by the way, it's good to have my fav back...kinda missed that when **'s away.. ;-)

ONCE...potential investor

I was surprised when AD#2 asked me yesterday. It turned-out that LC has announced it to the Sales team, so almost all are aware that we're talking to DP. As of now, there's nothing concluded yet. Then, I was surprised when ABDM told me that she would be the first to be cut (since her unavailabitiy in March on so on). WTF ?! We are not talking about a merger here or take-over where people will be retrenched! I guess they just read about the bank's M&A or the big corporate M&A where retrenchment, down-sizing are inevitable. They didn't look at IBM took-over Rational, Microsoft bought Visio and other technology-based company acquisition..where the core team (sales & tech) are retained. Hair-cut may happen to redundant post such as Finance & Admin. That's the first hair-cut if need be.

LC shared for good reason. To share the activities that we're doing, to give them hope (probably) of brighter future...i guess..dunno why she shared. Because, I'll not share it if it ain't happening. And with what ABSM told me, it make it even obvious, that it shouldn't be shared in the first place. If everything will be taken negatively, why share it in the first place ? "Sometimes, it's better not to know!"

For DP, there'll be technical evaluation next week. If they can appreciate our IP and it falls greatly in their criterion (compelling tech), great potential customers, (can't recall) and of course profit making, they our chance would be higher. Or valuation can be higher or justified. Anyway, for them to come in, they'll be taking controlling stake. Thus, we have to adhere to DP's corporate values and branding. And, we need to give them Profit Guarantee, thus, we have to make it happen. Get more right people in the bus, and steer it to greatness. It's still a long way to go..and as KC mentioned, "..we're not negotiating yet...it's kinda education on how we do things.." The values, the concerns and the criteria that they're looking before acquiring a technology company.

ONCE...details..?

It doesn't feel good when you used to get details, then you're blocked-out from getting the details. Used to share, then not shared. Why do we need details ?!

   * To know the root cause of problems
   * To find solutions
   * To manage issues
   * To resolve conflicts
   * To lessen doubts and be sure

If we don't get the details from the details' owner, could it be he/she...

   * Angry with you ?
   * Frustrated with you ?
   * Dissappointed with you ?
   * Shy with you ?
   * Pity with you ?
   * It won't do any good if you know the details ?
   * It won't do them any good if they share ?
   * It's too late to ask for the details ?
   * Don't want to solve the problems/issues/conflicts/doubts ?
   * Solved it already ? And don't wanna share how it was solved ?

Apart from all that, I seek for details from details' owners when I'm concern with the owner. Does that mean I'm not concern and "don't care" when I'm not seeking the details ? Maybe..! As I dig from my experiences, I'll ignore that, to prevent my frustration and anger from not getting the details. And that, often enough turned-out to make me less considerate and unconcern man. And nobody likes inconsiderate person right ?! It also made me, taking he/she out of my concerned list. Really hope that I won't become that man...again!

Or perhaps, I should learnt to accept that "..sometimes..it's better not to know.." and that it doesn't mean people hate you when they don't want to share some details. *sigh* "It takes two to tango.." "Share yours, and people will share theirs as well"..can't recall the title of the book..but it sure is somewhere in my small library. *sigh*

ONCE...office reform (4)

It's more than a month (5 weeks to be exact) since my last progress update. Really bad at reporting..or perhaps distracted with the disgraceful findings that leads to this. Or maybe the title doesn't really tell it's an update such as this one.

Today, I want to record my progress. Unlike Idris whose MAS activities are going in faster pace, mine seems like..uhmm..2 steps front and 5 steps back ?! I insist previously on full TS by February..any problems will be TM's problems (which actually, become my problems then). Since then, TS was flooded with soo many things (documents, specs, slides, late nights, etc). I've told TS to let BDM and the rest of Sales team know her work load. Make them aware and extra careful with datelines/commitment given to customers as they wanna respond faster, TS work becomes harder. This is the same statement that I gave TM previously.

We presented to JPN, and thank God they understand our requirement and will look into it. In the car, LC told me that she bursted at TM yesterday! Seems like TM is kinda lost touch or not aware/up-to-date with the things he has in hands, his team's activities and progress. LC bursted again this afternoon about IGM. Dev#1 (formerly Dev#2) will be going to Medan this Sat. But he doesn't know what he supposed to do when LC asked him and that got her mad! Then, some other things that she expected was not ready as well! So, basically triple madness laa...(sapa yg susah..? aku jugak !!!)

Before IGM's, I was upset to know that the 3 sales was at Museum SA implementation. But, there was no appointed PM as TM update me. They only came back around 4 plus! And when TS update me, ViMS installation was smooth, and that mean she's sitting there almost a day for..?!! Okey, she learnt Preface, but is that suppose to be priority #1 or train those 2 on installation of ViMS (which supposedly being done long time ago!), so that she can concentrate on other higher priority such as IGM? *sigh* There's no planning, as far as I'm concerned on the implementation of Museum!

So, the aftermath of all this problems, we called-off TS for now. TS will be AD#2 again. As IGM will be handle fully by us, she is the best person to manage that project. I've reprimanded TM for the chaos..aah..during that session, an email from KL Lib came. The hand-over was not done still ?!!! "I want to know the plan by tomorrow!"

The sales doesn't move as expected. BDM said the Prod Mgr is moving but I didn't see anything. We doubt..the plan is not convincing at all. Or rather the execution of their plan is not convincing. ABDM has her limitation which is understandable. LC & I need to go out to get sales as well. But with the situation like this in the office, how to go out ? "...go out, play golf." emm...seems like it'll be a looooooooong time before i can tee. Ahh...lastly, AD#2 (former TS) expressed her protest or unhappiness in sarcastical way. Sensed it when we were discussing on the problems with TM, right after she came back from Museum.

TM would need to make sure that all Tech are trained on Preface, IDWorks and printer. AD#2 to sit down with me & TM to discuss on all TS's pending items. I do hope TM aware of his roles & resp..need to buck-up, really improve and alert about situation. Really don't want to make any further unpleasant decision. Calling off TS, is really unpleasant to me.

ONCE...fearless

Last friday we went to see Fearless at Summit. Guess we're the only malay there..but I'm a big fan of Jet Li, so I wanna see his so called "last action" movie. It's AWESOME !!! He brought me to love Tai Chi and Wushu. That until now, I still can't find any Tai Chi club neither in KL (Sri Petaling, Cheras even Kajang) nor Shah Alam! Though if I've basic Tai Chi, when I get the chance to meet him, can ask for guidance.

It was Thursday that I found out that there was KA on my tribe (Orkfia). And it created so much hatred as the PM goes beyond Orkfia. So, I change the strategy, prepared to fire back with PM when I'm ready to strike back. But, after I saw Fearless, it made me thinking about the fun and purpose of playing it. Why would we need to bring the hatred out ? Attacking the person, country of origin ? What for..?! So, I PM him with a bit more gently..also asking him the objective and purpose. Try to know him further..like how long has he played, the tips & rules. So, the end ? Just like Huo Yuanjia's first fight when he came back, we became friends !

And now we are at War. And War is different ball game. It's to WIN! And since it's WAR, there's no grudge, no revenge and no payback after the WAR over. 20 hours to go! Best part is, I made few more close-friends. Eventhough haven't met face-to-face yet, but virtual world (YM and Orkfia) connected us. It's like we've been buddy for years. And, Insya-Allah, one of them would be Emma's (Fuad's wife) brother-in-law. Hehehehe...small world eh !

ONCE...sakit mata

Balik dari kursus, anak2 aku dah beransur pulih..cuma isteri aku je mata bengkak dan merah. Aku harap aku tak kena. Tapi, Allah Maha Kuasa..hari ahad aku pulak kena. Masa jumpa doktor amik ubat isteri aku, doktor kata mata aku belah kiri cam nak bengkak. Aku ingatkan sebab makan ubat batuk malam tu yg buat aku nak membuta je...tapi..memang nak kena pun. Malam semalam dah jadik sama cam bini aku..merah menyala..cam ponti! "Ponti jantan" kata bini aku.

Dari semalam sampai ke hari nie, buat extensive medication. Memang tak tinggal makan ubat dan titis ubat mata. Kiranya, awal tahun nie, Allah uji aku macam2. Batuk, sakit mata, selsema dan demam. Kalu aku tak makan Panadol semalam, gerenti tak bangunnye ari nie. Itu ujian kesihatan yang diberi. Sebelum tu dan masih lagi sekarang nie, ujian kesusahan dan kelapangan.

"Sabarkanlah aku ya Allah..berilah aku pedoman dlm menjalani ujianMu ini."

ONCE...get ONLINE again!

Completed the SUS and it was great! Eye opener (thought I know a lot about entreprenuership already...but there's so much that I still don't know..but I do now), met lots of friends. Some already in business doing International Trade, Biotech manufacturing, Petrol kiosk operator, contractors, Frozen-food manufacturer among others. Not to be forgotten, fresh grads and employed as well. But, about 80% has started thinking business already. We'll have an alumni called "SUS150" or something like that and meet again after a year.

Looking back at my 5 years plan, I've 19 months before it end. Looking at where I am today, I'm far from reaching it...unless I do something about it. NOW !!! And NOW is what I'm preparing for. Coming February will be very exciting. Need to make sure that I WON'T GIVE UP EASILY ! Whatever it takes...whatever it may be...come what may...I'll strive...I'll go for it...I'LL MAKE IT !!!

ONCE...firemen on bike !

[Tue 24 Jan 2006 1102]

I was waiting for the traffic light to turn green as I saw blue-red siren-like lights coming. And it turned out to be FIREMEN! They're on bike...cool bike i'm talking about. It's like the other bike of Kesatria Baja Hitam. I'm not sure whether it's new or it has been around for some time already...but that was my first time seing it ! Tuesday night.

ONCE...did I say it too much ?

[Wed 25 Jan 2006 1153]
It hit me when TS apologized to me few times when I mentioned to her that "...I was given a dateline from my...err...errmm..staff..". It all started from her email on the possible job scope of TS (based on her research from JobStreet, her thought, etc), I was given a dateline to provide the written and confirmed job scope of TS. And I make fun of it (or sarcastically) said that to her. But, I guess, she probably felt "..oppss...shouldn't do that to my BOSS !!" as she kept apologizing. It made me thinking, did I mentioned it to much (few times in a row) that made her think that I'm serioud about it. Am I..?! Or Am I not ?!

Let say it doesn't really matter to me, but..would it be the same if other people put the same remark to me ?! Am I actually created or really DO or PRACTICE favouritism ? Or is it that we kinda close since we think a like (LC always mentioned "..great people think alike.."), have common interest and stuff that I don't quite disturb with such statement. I guess if AMBD gave the same remark, I wouldn't budge so much about it.

Anyway, perhaps..to be on the safe side, she could improve...put a softer tone. Just in-case ! Not every boss is okey with such statement.

ONCE...gotta-be-kidding !

I saw this and immediately "...what a joke !" It'd be amazing those Standard Four students are soooo bold and precisely aware about their rights under which part of the law..and make them filed to sue the GOVERNMENT !!! It is obviously driven by the parents, and that's is TRULY manipulating their children for don't-know-what reason. Guess this people has nothing better to do except trying to get easy money, big bucks, fame (or shame really) or glamour by sueing the govt.

Let's try to be professional here (concentrate on the issue). It has been implemented for 3 (if I'm not mistaken) years. It should have been then rather than now. And 4 students out of few hundred thousands, is too little to be taken seriously. It should be for the good of the country. If it do good to 1/2 million youngsters, I guess we can ignore the 4. Perhaps, the parents should look into better ways to improve their children's performance in catching up with English rather than pamperring them with unnecessary protection.

ONCE...improved

Alhamdulillah...AD#1 seems motivated. Guess AD#1 and AD#2 (soon-to-be TS by Feb) has sorted their problem or issues...as they look friendly like before. TM seems in control, eventhough out-of-hand but looks like he know how to manage it. Called him for project update (30 minutes notice only) and he can update me smoothly.

LC asked me to present for MyD's tender presentation. Asked SUS organizer, he said can be excused..just that lost that session. Then, postponsed to 5 pm 24 Jan instead of morning. Guess skip the night class only. Told BDM to let TS free on Monday, want her to prepare my presentation script.

Seems like everything fall into places one-by-one. But need to be very patient and keep going. Take it one-step at a time. LC called me at about 2035 about the potential investor, seems like positive. Need to pray more and work harder still. My mentor came back from Haj today, will pay him a visit tomorrow night.

ONCE...TeAM Council

LC asked me last week, whether I want to be in TeAM Council or not. She can't continue, wanna recommend me. Yesterday, she told me that the recommendation has been supported by Nazrin! If accepted, then need to spend time on that also. But, no complain man ! I wanna learn from those people, esp Nazrin, on how to think critically, comment constructively, act and behave professionally, and how to network/socialize naturally.

Anyway, will need to wait for TeAM's AGM first. If elected, hope I can perform and deliver as expected. Will need lots of support by then! Aah...I'm going for SUS training ! Monday till Saturday...hehehhe..accommodation provided (as in the website)...training, in Shah Alam !!! 10 minutes drive from my house..hehehe...

ONCE...Career TALK

I was invited by my friend from INPENS to give a Career Talk which I put it as "Are you IT ?!!!". It's quite tough as I run through the courses offered. How do these Certificate holders going to get job in this competetive and tough ICT world ? Looking at this, I said "..there's no opportunity at all for you guys. With this, I end my presentation. Thank you." Well...they do understood that it was a joke.

I told them that their prospect would be out of Klang Valley; Sabak Bernam, Hulu Langat, Tg Karang for Selangor among others or Kedah, Perlis, Kelantan & Terengganu. They can make money there. Being an entreprenuer there to create job opportunities for all the degree holders! Suggested to my friend to revamp the syllabus, put in new tools that are highly sought after in the market such as .NET & more advanced Java programming. Databases, software development methodologies, etc. But, INPENS need to get on its feet. New courses, updated syllabus and most importantly, NEW LOCATION ! Pity that they're the victim or results of TOP MGMT directions. The real pity is to the students. 2nd grader SPM leavers but still eager to improve/better themselves, Selangorians..but the TOP doesn't really bother about that. All that matters is their POCKET & POLITICAL stability!

I'll assist my friend with inputs on the syllabus (whether he want to use it or not, i'm going to bug him still!). Hope they can survive and do better. For the betterment of my young Selangorians, I'll do my best based on my capacity in this field, to assist. Insya-Allah !

ONCE...revengeful ?!

This week I'm still disturbed with all the things that happened. My "intelligence" still come now and then to update on latest development. And it's prolonging my anger and eagerness to take revenge. I want to know the brutal facts but yet to loose faith. But, is this "revenge thingy" a sign of me losing faith ? Or is it a sign of me CANNOT accepting the truth ? Well, the truth here is that people are talking bad about me on my back (duh..!!!). What angers me was that attitude, its the typical Malay attitude that I don't like the most!

Then, yesterday, I saw this. It reminds me that a friend has labelled him "stupid". And when I told my wife, I kinda use the same term (and she "lectured" me on having that attitude!). Yesterday, it slapped on my face, as what "the people" did to me now, is what I did to him then! It made me thinking, what would he think or feel if he knows that I said this to him. Will he hated me like this ? Will he be so emotional ? My mentor compiled all those BAD THINGS to be presented to him. Man...how am I going to be PM if I can't handle this crisis wisely ?! I went to Tun's lecture on Leadership in Crisis Management, but don't I learnt anything from there ?! (will look at the notes afterwards ;-) )

I also realized that this #&%* crisis has taken me aback from putting all my efforts towards business. I've forgotten my aim of putting myself having the same challenge as Idris. Todate, I've no solid plan yet. But, he has (eventhough not officially yet..or it supposed to be PnC there?) the plan already!!!

Really have to buck-up and concentrate on my goals. Maybe should just TH with all this %#&**@. Should try to adopt what my partner suggested, "..it's better not to know..." and "...don't be too sensitive...". 2006...challenging since day 1...very exciting !

ONCE...firing season

Dev#3 has been MIA since Monday. I've told TM to execute according to HR procedures. Ultimately, terminate him ! Knowing that he has track records for MIA at his former company, and the fact that I've remind him on his first day here...and yet he still do it. Guess it simply show's how "Wrong people" shouldn't be in the bus ! I've told TM that if the axed-guy came to the office (because I don't want him to be in the office, for whatever reason !!!), he will be axed after that ! (huahuahua...!!!)

Now, I'm looking for the Right People to be in the bus. Attempt has been made, offer has been given, just need to wait for his decision. "Buat Istikharah malam tadi tapi belum dapat petunjuk lagi...bagi sampai ari ahad la...". Meanwhile, has to start looking for more Right Peoples !

ONCE...You're Fired !!!

I wish I can do that just like Donald Trump. But, we being nice also..asked to leave. As I step into the office, I met my partner. Told her about the choice and:

   LC: "Let sit on it first, let me go to the meeting and you go make your Friday prayer and pray to God for some wisdom"
   Me: "U know what ? I did last night. As I was listening to the info and looking at the evidences, I prayed. And 10 minutes or so after that, I received a call from Dev#1 telling me that he's car was broken and the floating Sales notebook was stolen!"
   LC: "Yeah...but let it sink first. You're too emotional now. We'll discuss further after prayer."

She's always wanna look at the positive side (which is good!). After prayer, I saw TM & BDM already in her room. "Just started...", she said. Asked their opinion, I added some inputs, LC with her rationalization. With Dev#1, "RELIEFED!", so firm decision made; AXED!!! But for AD#1, it'll be quite a waste. And LC also believed that she has the Right People attributes, and she's among the Right People that we want to be On-the-Bus.

As PROFESSIONAL & DEMOCRATIC, argued & justified, decision made; WARNING!!! And what's the strategy for the aftermath ? The risk & options ? It was 4 pm and I can't wait longer actually. But need to wait for CFO to come back from the meeting in KLIA to prepare the necessary docs. To make sure both stayed, I've asked Admin to announce that there'll be a tech meeting (they thought because of the notebook case) around 5.30 or 6 pm, as CFO came back (the whole thing finished around 7.30, and I totally forgotten that Dev#2 & #3 are still waiting for the meeting. AD#2 went back already. Anyway, sorry guys...).

5.30, LC said CFO came back already. So, she called Dev#1 to her room, then I told TM, "Now !". Long story short, he didn't admit it till the end. We need to probe little by little, and detailing the projects and incidents, but yet till the end, he didn't admit it. Just "This is very sad to me." Can't really recall whether he apologized or not. I couldn't care less at that time. Get CFO to escort him, with TM to watch he pack and immediately leave the office. He'll serve his notice at home, no need to come back !

6.20, AD#1, as LC started, she immediately "...I owe both of you an apology...". Again, long story short (one tissue only anyway..) she accepted. We gave her 2nd chance, and I told her that she has to give us a chance also to improve and make it better. Hope it'll really be better after this. "Start fresh, leave 2005 behind, but don't forget the lesson." as I conclude.

8.30, it was just LC & I in the office, I shared that the evidence was attacking on me personally. And that's why I'm very emotional, "..it hits your soft spot.." LC said. She continued "...sometimes, it's better not to know...". Well 2006, SMART, FOCUS, PROFESSIONAL, DYNAMIC & DEMOCRATIC ! Will really working on improving my EQ !

"Thank you God for Your guide & blessing, also for the wisdom for me to carry on further..."

ONCE...Tough Decision

(sigh!)...........very disturbed with the news & information that i heard last night...really angry and dissappointed! have to make a decision, one from 3 choices:

   1. act
   2. pull
   3. or ...

"God..give me the strength and wisdom to decide and execute. Please guide me to the right decision, for the good of all!"

ONCE...office reform (4)

Missed the last progress report for 2005. No progress report came to me. But that week is last week of 2005, and the most anticipated activity was the Strategic Planning. MGS development was active and heard results generated greatly (devs deliver their task on time).

Well, except for Prog001, as pointed in the Strategic Planning, he's such an unreliable person, bad time management and commitment level (had other commitments). And because of that, 29 Dec 2005 was his last day in the office. There's no more Prog001 coming 2006.

"So long man..! Hope God bless you always and you excel in your future endeavours !"

ONCE...Balik Awal ?

It was yesterday, I arrived home around 9.30 pm. My daughter cheered up that I came back while she's still awake, my son bit gungho and cried as I didn't pick him fast enough.

The best part ?! My wife asked, "Awai balik ? Awat ?" (Early today ? Why ?). Then, my father-in-law as he scoop the ice-cream, "Aik, balik awai hari nie ?". Guess, my sister-in-law & mum-in-law had the same question as well, but it'll be too much to ask the same question in 2 minutes right ?

So, that's the first for 2006. Had a few in 2005 though. Just, dunno whether I should be proud of it or what ?

ONCE...Staffs' Appraisal 2005

Today, continued with AD#2 & Dev#1. Had with AD#1 yesterday. What I would want to post here (after yawning few times reading the SOA articles), is the findings today about being Malayanized!

I was accused of execising favoritism. It's so annoying that they saw the "F" (for favourite) person, always come to my room, chit chat (on what they don't know and don't care)..what they saw was this "F" person is KISSING-MY-ASS for some recognition & to get "F" messages across or synch with me. WTF ?!!! I said:

   Me : "if you guys don't wanna come here and have a chat with me, and "F" came and chat with me, why am I at fault ?! There're other person also that came to me, TM, AD#2, BDs, for example, and why with "F" its different ?"
   X : "Because mostly in meetings or discussions, you WILL agree on whatever "F" said!"
   Me : "But, during pre-strategic planning, I did agree with you and withdrew "F" idea! I am exercising (learning still) true professionalism in this company. Our problem is that we have been MALAYANIZED ! How you asked ? When you didn't speak-up for the truth ? Enquiring to know more to clear your conscience ! Assumed too much ! Make negative assumption and never bother to get it clarified or justified to move the grudge ! You step-back from wanting to know the real truth because obliged by motherly approach and tone from CEO during Strategic Planning ! You should have ask it there and then, rather than point it out here again."

After the Strategic Planning, now is the time, to EXECUTE ! No more looking back, to hold...may look back to learn then MOVE ON ! The best part (I don't know) to me was to know that someone called me "B**I punya boss !", because of that favouritism perception. For now, I'm still smiling about that remark...and yet to figure out what and how to respond to it. Maybe, as they suggested "Go out and play golf, network with all those Datuks or whoever, catch bigger fish !"...so the "F" wouldn't be the FIRST to come to my room anymore, whenever I entered my room. Then, they won't see any more BUTT-KISSING action or FAVORITISM for that matter.

SUCH A b#*&@?#$ TYPICAL MALAY THINKING ! GOD BLESS ME PLEASE !!!

ONCE...Happy New Year !

Happy New Year !!! Welcome 2006 !!! Last friday I've changed the arrangement in my room, me against the wall instead of the window, facing my whiteboard and also facing the people. Today, I rearranged a bit my bookshelf and maybe later today, tidy up all the cables and relocate the phone (if i can wait till later...).

Weekends spent in PA. My son just got his feet, so walking like anything. I bought few books on Saturday before heading to PA. Anyway, in PA, really relaxing (from work!). Watching TV with the kids, yell few times at them, play a bit, makan, then tgk TV lagi, makan and tido.

Yesterday, tragedy happened! First time in my life ! My car has about another bar before 'E' since Friday. From my experience, it can still go another 30-40 km. My wife went to the market on Sunday but she didn't put in the petrol as I said it can still go to SA. So, Monday night, loaded the bags, warm-up the engine for about 5 minutes. And as we all get into the car, it stopped ! Can start, but then dead again. Battery is ok, engine oil is ok, coolant is ok...it must be the petrol. Go next door, wanna borrow their bike, but all those guys were sleeping. Called Bg Asri, he's at Jelutong. Anyway, he'll asked his brother to help. Then, Nizam helped me to go to Petronas, loaded the petrol RM 3.30 about a litre plus. Bg Asri arrived and helped to fill the petrol as I need to get the lid open and hold the self-made funnel. And true enough, it's the petrol. Head off to Petronas again for another RM 70.20. Used to be RM 60++ but thanks to reduction in goverment subsidy, we'll pay more.

Thank God, it happened before we go out. Imagine we're in the middle of PA middle road to Jelutong, or Meru ? Thank you God !!!

ONCE...The obstacle in Our Path

Received this from a friend (one of the 5 stories that he sent). I chose this one as it brought smile to my face...made me realize about the opportunity (hikmah) behind the obstacles that I'm having now. Thank you God !

In ancient times, a King had a boulder placed on a roadway. Then he hid himself and watched to see if anyone would remove the huge rock. Some of the king's wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by and simply walked around it. Many loudly blamed the King for not keeping the roads clear, but none did anything about getting the stone out of the way.

Then a peasant came along carrying a load of vegetables. Upon approaching the boulder, the peasant laid down his burden and tried to move the stone to the side of the road. After much pushing and straining, he finally succeeded. After the peasant picked up his load of vegetables, he noticed a purse lying in the road where the boulder had been. The purse contained many gold coins and a note from the King indicating that the gold was for the person who removed the boulder from the roadway. The peasant learned what many of us never understand!.

Every obstacle presents an opportunity to improve our condition !

ONCE...office reform (3)

The presentation went well. My wife SMS "why felt so bad ?"...wonder how does she knows that i just posted ? Anyway, hope the project will turnout good next year.

Progress report! Not much that I can put it here and I realized why. I didn't get the progress report from TM. And for last week, only AD#2 sent the updated report on Friday. The rest..? Only on the 13th when I asked the TM to get everybody to send. From my notes, this week was spent on the pre-strategic meeting for technical dept. Lots of ideas, issues & concerns discussed, and few suggestions will be made on 29th (Strategic Planning). TM was given 3 hours slot as well as the BDM. MGS has kicked-off yesterday, all the developers have their assignment (except for Prg001).

Just now, Prg001 back in action! But to his surprise...the software that was working on that terminal last week, is no longer working ?!!! And unfortunately, he lost faith already (he's only 55% recover from the downturn). I think he will head back to his house (meet his wife) to regain and recollect the other 45% (hopefully!).

As I was just thinking that my plate is empty...then i realized...there's alot of things...and i'm hardly finding the time to finish it...have to get it over with during this holiday.

ONCE...disturbed :(

I really don't like the condition I'm having now...low, down, lazy, demotivated, dissappointed, frustrated, crazy, stupid, negative, unambitious...

Don't know how to express my feelings, where to express it, who to share to , when to release it, how to say about it, and worst ! how to deal with it?! how to handle it?! how to manage it?! how to cure it?! how to decide for it ?! how to decide on it ?! what to decide on it ?! who to help me ?! who would listen ?! is listening all i need ?! what do i need ?!!!

"Ya Allah, apakah makna ujian mu ini ? Apakah hikmah ujian mu ini ? Mengapa ku rasakan begitu berat cubaan Kau kali ini ya Allah ? Mengapakah simpang yg terbentang begitu sulit utk diputuskan ? Jalan manakah yg perlu aku pilih ? Atau apakah itu sahaja jalannya ? Berilah aku petunjuk ya Allah ! Berilah aku kekuatan untuk menghadapi ujianMu ini."

Atau apakah aku yg terlalu beremosi..? Whatever it is, i need to buckle-up fast ! Presentation in half an hour, I better...(how...?!!!!)

ONCE...office reform (2)

(Sigh) I've missed last week's progress report. Busy with the CBAS proposal. Since tomorrow is my next progress report, i'll post-it for 2 weeks instead.

Currently, gearing for the coming Strategic Planning. Supposed to be today, but postponed to 28th. But later my 'favourite devil advocates' has time-limit, and i'm not going to take any chance in allowing it to happen (huahuahua..!). So, postponed it to 29th ! During the Mgr's Pre-strategic Planning Meeting, i was given a slot (an hour). Thought just wanna do some exercise (mine would be end of day, at 5 pm)...u know the one like "Hands-up ! Hands-down ! Hands-up ! Hands-down !", till LC suggested i share the Branding strategy knowledge (the one that i attend early Dec). Guess, wanna include also the Hedgehog Concept from Good to Great, or the Flywheel and the Doom loop. Or perhaps, about Good to Great ?! Well, there's 7 days to go ! Let see how it goes...

ONCE...Leadership in Crisis Management

It's the first Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad Lecture Series by UNITEN. It'll be an annual program but not necessarily Tun will be speaking. Just the series bares his name. Tun's lecture was very enlightening, resourceful and practical as it comes from his very own experiences especially in managing Financial Crisis 1997-98. Among the best part was, his "unpublished remarks" on the culprits (read: George Soros and COLB).

First, Tun defines that Leaders must:

   1. Have vast knowledge
   2. Able to think
   3. Able to calculate the risk on its own
   4. Able to decide

Tun also defines that "Leaders is someone who is able to decide on bitter path. If someone who claim the leadership position, but just follow the path set before, he is not a leader. He is a follower. Leaders must be able to decide, even if it is a bitter path." I tried to read between the line if he tried to mention someone..but then I take it as general.

During crisis, Tun explained that Leaders must:

   1. Able to identify the crisis - always examine the data, in detail to get the pattern so that able to predict or forecast any potential crisis coming. Studying the graph and charts !
   2. Study in detail about the crisis - why it happen ? who's behind it ? what is the impact currently ? what would be the impact later ? what are the options to solve it ? etc...In great detail !
   3. Use his/her knowledge and experiences to gauge each data to analyse and to decide on the best solution
   4. There is NO PERFECT DECISION ! Every decision made will have its pro's and con's. Whatever it is, decision has to be made ! Fast !!! Leaders can't wait for a perfect solution because there won't be any.

There's a question from the floor asking his experiences in "bad decision" as what he had shared with us are mostly (all actually) "good decision". Tun said "I regret saying I also make some bad decision" that made the hall full with laughter. Of course, we can't really recall our bad decision because when we analyse our own performance, normally the good results or decisions pop-up. "I'm a good person so I guess I'm doing okey". Tun continued with some people did claim his decision as "bad decision" for the mega-projects such as Penang Bridge, KLCC, Putrajaya and PLUS. For this "...maybe we are doing okey without Putrajaya. Without komuter we are okey, just that we don't travel. Tourist don't need to come here to strain their neck to see that tall building, we also don't need to strain our neck. But then, they do come here to strain their neck. Perhaps, we don't need North-South highway, so people don't go back for Raya and there will be less accident". Master or Sarcastism !!! And I've been referred to be one as well...and I'm no longer feel embarrased since I know Tun is the Master ! And again, Tun's remark got full laughter from the floor.

A guy asked Tun whether he could persuade Tun Tan Cheng Eu to speak on the event as he has been very quiet since his retirement. I would say I was fortunate because I was in Penang for MDC's Conference during MSC IAP Meeting. Saturday (10th Sept 2005) there was Penang Lecture Series and Tun Tan was speaking. He's already 82 (if I can remember correctly), so his introduction was quite long about Penang's past. Tun also mentioned that Tun Tan was the man that started the industrialization in Malaysia starting from Penang. The lecture was about Penang: Past, Present and Future (hope I'm right with the title, if not the lecture was about those). Guess what..? He's also have a great sense of sarcastic remarks. One questions about his views on tourism, "...we don't have to invest in tourism. We need to spend money to serve people." Tun Tan believes it is better to spend on high growth technology production or manufacturing. Again about his views on brain drain in Penang, "...we don't have to get those Penangites back here. Penangites serve the world ! (there are few CEOs in Silicon Valley from Penang, top-guns in high-tech industries as well). We have all the technologies like video conferencing, mobile communication, etc. we don't need them to be here. They can contribute from where they are. We just need to utilize or come-up with new technology to enable this." Very proud of Penangites and high-tech enthusiast I would say.

Tun mentioned that Tun Tan can still be approached but he prefers to lay low. He can be approached for consultancy and advice but not on lecturing or speaking like what Tun did today (standing for 2 hours). Which I agree with Tun. My friend who organized the Penang Lecture said "...it was not easy to convince Tun Tan to speak for that day." I thank God for that opportunity because otherwise I wouldn't know who is Tun Tan Cheng Eu.

And for today, I thank God again and I'm glad that I came. Because initially I was contemplating whether to go to the lecture or go to office and finish my work. And honey, this is the third time (as far as I can remember), that I'm glad that I came for the event/meeting. And as I can recall, the reason was always "MALAS! (lazy, complacent)" for don't know what reason. Never really thought thru about it.

As Tun & the VIPs made their way out, the crowd were hogging the lane, to shake hand with him or take pictures or just simply want to see him in-person. Also some asked for his autograph. It's very inspiring to see such great leader still healthy and strong so that he can share his knowledge and experiences for the benefits of this country. My eagerness level to see Tun's memoirs has tripled since then!

ONCE...office reform (1)

My first progress report... I've monitored the team according to the plan & schedule, checking with the PM on the progress and what not. I've also spread the news that we have put up the plan & schedule at the new Whiteboard (just newly hung there actually), so that everybody can see who's who, when and how the resources are being distributed. Another reason is for the team member themselves to see who has more assignments. That in one way, can be considered as performance indicator and bring the competition-to-perform-better environment among the team members.

Last week, I made them tidy-up the cubicles and the 2nd pantry because I want it to be the 2nd discussion area for the team (the board hangs there as well). And I'm glad that this environment made it easy for everybody to sit down (have a drink or lepak) and looking at the board! At one point I realized, "what is TM doing ? he's not in the resource graph at all ?!!" Then, I had a chat with him and these are the things that he need to do:

   1. Be prepared and updated with the project status all the time so that when I asked, the answer will come immediately rather than "I need to check with them first".
   2. Improve his delivery method. The request from Sales team for demo or feedback from customer or solution for customers' inquiries/project must be attended soonest possible. If there's no solution yet, inform them when can he get back with the solution. If request for demo, then get the exact requirements for the demo (when, where, what, etc.) and suggest whether we can accommodate immediately (we have it already) or require some time (for customization or prototype development).
   3. Internal system. Plan, design, implement and monitor internal system for Project, Product Development and Sales synchronization. This is to improve effectiveness and efficiency to increase productivity.
   4. Performance measurement mechanism and SOP on technical unit operations.

So, looking back at my decision, 1 and 3 as planned, but not yet for 2 and 4 together with TM. Looking at the team progress, just had discussion with TM at 9 pm, few changes were made:

   1. AD#1 to drop ePurS v2.0 till end of the year, concentrate in preparing the relevant documents for MGS, managing NL and AS.
   2. AD#2 to drop MPS and PRS, concentrate in preparing and submitting the relevant documents for IGM, managing PNK, planning and recommendation on MyI based on the feedback from customers.
   3. Dev#1 completed MyI (x+1 day), as NL have not kick-off yet (NL yet to confirm the kick-off date), so rope him in for MGS. Assg given on Thursday.
   4. Dev#2 yet to complete PNK (x+3 days). New dateline is today but still 1 report pending. Monday he should start on MGS already but seems like will need to push a bit. All IGM's dev put on-hold.
   5. Dev#3 started picking up on .NET, but will be re-assg for MGS on Monday. All IGM's dev on-hold.
   6. Prg001 has yet to complete BIS (x+5 days) as he was pushed to take-up his previous role (few proposals and meetings to attend to). AS re-engineering put on-hold for MGS.

I've told TM, based on the current situation, as much as possible try to not involving Prg001 for MGS. No doubt he is REQUIRED, but try to put him as the last resort. Looking at MGS that are depending on other project deliveries to get it's resources, I've told TM that given the flexi-hours, the condition is the JOB GETS DONE ! Meaning, if PNK supposed to be completed today and Monday will be new assg, he has to do whatever it takes (read: weekends) to complete it.

Today, Dev#1 is on leave, high-fever because of tired this morning can't wake-up (and that was told by AD#1 before Friday prayer). So, during my discussion just now with TM, I told him to call Dev#1. Ask about his condition, concern a bit, eventhough AD#1 has informed, but as TM he has to call him personally. So that we know whether the condition is severe or not, advice him accordingly, assist if he may require it. The information also needed so that we can plan accordingly for his assg next week rather than caught by surprise again (like today).

22nd Dec will be our Strategic Planning for 2006 (SP2006). I've asked TM to prepare the SOP, performance measurement and reports, recommendations and planning for 2006 for SP2006. I've told BDM also to prepare the market update and sales strategy for 2006 to meet RM 3mil target. TM was adviced to sit in the Sales preparation discussion for SP2006 before he do the Technical one. I will prepare some strategy for Branding, Sales & Technical for that as well...and I've requested to sit-in in their pre-SP2006 discussion.

This week has been a very active week for my brain. And it gets very active after midnight. Really excited with the new knowledge on Branding, IBM's technology and Java. But the strategic and provocative thinking that made me get my paper & pen at 1 am, really caught my wife by surprise.

Very excited to turnaround this company! I'm going to strive for both ME and Co's success coming 2006 !

ONCE...office reform (0)

After few days of thinking, strategizing and planning, I've decided to do the following in reforming my unit:

1. Work closely with TM to lead, guide and assist him on ways to better manage the team.
2. Me taking up the role of Chief Architect (just like Bill !)
3. Enforcing the new structure
4. Plan, decide, write and announce the SOP and Performance Indicator for everybody

Yesterday, I've briefed TM and then spend the rest of the day with every single team member on their assignments. At any one time, the AD member may only have ONE AD assignment. Thus, concentrated on one assignment in lesser time. They will also be managing projects, but PM is not a full-day job as other people will involve in implementing the project. The PM would need to make sure everybody is gearing towards delivering the task ON TIME, WITHIN BUDGET and does not EXCEED SCOPE. As for Dev, same thing; ONE development assignment at any ONE time.

So, these were the things decided yesterday:

1. AD#1 was released from the MGS development work so that she can concentrate on preparing the report, chasing the govt agency(s) approval, and to concentrate more on AS issues. She's also will be managing NL project. Her AD assg is ePurS v2.0 (which include site study and survey at AS & SBS) till end Dec.
2. AD#2 will continue on PNK, IGM and MyI projects. Her AD assg is IGM AES & Portal, followed with MPS and PRS till end Dec
3. Dev#1 on MyI and NL till mid Dec. New assg will be given after he complete the tasks.
4. Dev#2 on PNK then MGS till mid Dec. After that continue on IGM Portal Integration till end Dec.
5. Dev#3 on IGM AES and Portal till mid Dec. New assg will be given after he complete the tasks.
6. Prg001 on BIS and MGS till mid Dec. He also will be working on re-engineering AS's terminal before end of 2005.

The briefing went good even though initially there's some resistance from AD#1. She want to learn that new language, but...I guess the quote below could explain it better (I just can't find the author of this quote, I know I find it in one of my books, but then which page ?!! this quote is definitely NOT invented by me, so please...don't sue me)

I CARE MORE ABOUT THE SUCCESS OF MY PEOPLE THAN I DO MY FUTURE, BUT I CARE MORE ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION ACCOMPLISHING IT MISSION THAN EITHER ONE

One very important thing that I need to CONSISTENTLY do is to really enforce, guide and monitor them closely. Make sure i get the productivity and quality level that i want. Who else can I expect to do that isn't it ? One way to measure my performance (that I really enforce, guide and monitor closely) is from my weekly (if not daily) post on the progress. Assuming the whole world is watching the progress, I need to make sure that I won't screw up !

ONCE...aquaria@klcc (1)

THE KIDS

It's Sunday, and I'm taking my family to aquaria@klcc, the in-town aquarium right at the basement of KL Convention Center. Auny excited like anything..."Abi...there's Nemo !!! And there's Dowry !!!" Well, I must say, Disney did a very good job in promoting the Clown fish and the "Dowry" type of fish (sorry..forgot to get the actual fish name). The aquaria is such a great experiences ! I've been to New Orleans Waterworld, and now having all those marine creatures in here, in KL...is really really great ! I may post some pictures here when I've got my broadband access (aka "in the office") soon.

NO FLASH IN THE AQUARIA

I saw the signage at the entrance. But to my shocking, at the Amazonia world, it's flashes all over ?!!! Well, there's no signage inside the area to REMIND people about it. And further, i believe this people are thinking, "the fish seems ok with the flash..what's the harm ?". Because they do seem like not bothered with the flashes. Hope aquaria's management will put more signage inside the aquaria if it is really affecting the fishes. And we need to civilised our mindset as well.

Anyway, some tips though, if you want to go there, go there after lunch..around 3 onwards. We arrived around 12 noon, and the Q till the exit ! It took us about 30 minutes before we can enter the aquaria, and then it's too crowded. Especially when people stop to see all those tiny and colorful frogs, dead-leave-like frog, beatles, tarantulas and the like. Then, the Amazonia where the big Arapaima, turtles, errmm...basically all those big fishes are there lah! Then the tunnel, where you can see the same (forgot his name) Stingray that used to transport Nemo & friends to school...and they are like flying around like nobody's business. After watching them mostly on National Geographic, seing them alive is really exciting !

And as you go out (EXIT), guess what ? It's the SOUVENIR SHOP !!! Very good design and planning. And I had to buy one of the T-shirt because Nu'man leaked. Thus, can't use my 29 euro Hard Rock cafe Amsterdam shirt for prayer (jgn marah honey :) ...kalu kat oversea, musti sudah bili itu t-shirt aquaria kalu...ini malaysia punya, kena kasi leaking baru dpt satu..hehehe..). Then we took the Green-backdrop picture to be super-imposed with Monsters Inc (as Auny chose it!). Very nice I'm telling you !

MALAYSIAN HERO WITH HIS FAMILY

I didn't take his picture...I believe he wants to spend his quality time with his family. 6 daugthers, beautiful wife (sayang abg pun cantik jugak..lagi cantik apa ;) ) and a cap. I know that he asked the girl to blocked the angle from the guy behind that wanna shoot his family in action. One thing I know, he smiled to my wife..well..as she smiled first. Who you ask ? (Itu KL Menjerit punya hero la...)

ONCE...in the Office(2)

Can't stop thinking about what went wrong. Chat with my sweetheart at home, and friend the next morning. People get frustrated when they failed, right ? And I'm delegating my failures by blaming my staffs of not competetive enough, not aggressive enough and stuff. The fact is, most of them just taking orders. And do their best in their own field and scope. Expect more ?! Will frust again!

Thinking to revoke the scheme and flexibility given, but then...it is too soon to do that. It's just a month since the flexi-hours implemented, and 1 1/2 months (after take-out Raya holidays) after the new structure being put in place. Like it or not, may need to wait till end of the year. But will closely monitor ! 2006 must be different !!!

new scheme, new method, new strategy, new mood, new motivation and new spirits !!!

NEW may not be totally NEW...but it shall be the improvements of all the mistakes and discoveries (as Einstein put it). We can't be successful, if we didn't discover (motivating words for "failure"), if we didn't fall and rise again. And as success is a journey...I'm not stopping here as yet..!

I'll share the steps, the thinking, the discussion, the decisions and the results of my next moves. First, setting my mind: to turn around this company into a successful and profitable company. I believe I'm facing the same challenges as what Idris Jala will be facing next month (perhaps he start thinking already..and may have plan that just need to be executed come Dec 1).

Thanks to Sharry for introducing me to the blog world (and the new vlogging here)...and especially to my sweetheart, who are very enthusiastic to see my post. Really an encouragement...and made me think profusely..so that I'm not posting a junk. "Luv you honey :*"

ONCE...in the Office (1)

IT'S NOT MINE !

I was talking about the IT's NOT MINE mentality. Just now I found another classic example: the office's pantry ! It's full with all the mugs, spoons and plates. With water filling each and every space that it can contain. Will you have that in your own house ?! Of course NOT!

I'm guessing the thinking when they leave those stuff there.."aahh...we have makcik cleaner, she'll clean it up". And she's coming every 2 days, what happen before she came ? If any visitors (esp CLIENTS) come and we treat them lunch or dinner, and they wanna wash their hand and "euwww..! awful !".

..continue..."yeah..makcik cleaner not coming that often, but what the heck, it's the office (duh?!) nobody sleeps or stays here...it's only during office hours...and after all, it's not MY COMPANY!". errr..that reads "THE COMPANY DOESN'T BELONGS TO ME..I'M JUST WORKING HERE !". *sigh...*

WHAT WENT WRONG ?

"We've lost the other 2 tenders.", my partner informed me yesterday. The govt one, fair enough..lost it to the manufacturer. The club one, "we're the one that initiated the project with them. how come we lost it ?!". I'm clueless. The "ONE" big tender that we're eyeing after raya lost because we are using 256 kbps line while the one that got it is using 2 Mbps dedicated broadband (the story is definitely different if we are the one that has the 2 Mbps line). Then, these 2 tenders some more ? "What went wrong ?!".

Everybody is working hard or rather seems to work hard. I can see that they're running here and there. But then, looking at the facts, from their reports..it's clearly NOT ENOUGH ! Very little activities, not extensive and rigorous planning, no long-term and detail planning. Why other people can do it ? Why their people keep getting the deals ? Why can't we have high productivity and high quality results ? Being an employee, people said "The management/company need to provide condusive workplace, motivating environment, flexi-hours, freedom and spaces to be more creative in delivering,..." among others.

What shall we do when after all that are provided, the results doesn't materialize ?! My expectations wasn't met ?! I would LOVE it if I have the luvury to use Donald Trumph's favourite word! But, is that the solution ?! We might end up losing than benefiting from that. But why can't they think on their own on how to improve their work ? How to initiate, be proactive ? "Hmm...i'm think i'm idle, no new assignment yet...maybe i should ask the manager for new assignment..rather than just browsing the net about the local artiste or watching movies...i must earn every RM of my salary rightfully.." Can't we think like that ?

I was an employee once...(hmm...nice topic...), but I don't have that kind of mentality (by the time I'm thinking that I might start having that mentality, I'm here already :-) my own company !). Guess...shouldn't expect much...people are different...can't expect them to be like me, right ? (WHY WOULD I NEED TO CONSOLE MYSELF WITH THIS STATEMENT ?!!!) With that consolation statement...and people agree with it...we are not going to go far in whatever things we are doing.

Based on my readings,

Hardwork

Sacrifices

Pro-active

Preservarence

Desire to excel

are among the KEY elements that made the successful people, SUCCESSFUL !

"bukan senang nak senang bro..."

ONCE...good article

Never underestimate your client's complaint. No matter how...

This is a real story that happened between a customer of General Motors andits Customer-Care Executive . Pls read on.....A complaint was received by the Pontiac Division of General Motors:

'This is the second time I have written to you, and I don't blame you for not answering me, because I sounded crazy, but it is a fact that we have a tradition in our family of Ice-Cream for dessert after dinner each night, but the kind of ice cream varies so, every night, after we've eaten, the whole family votes on which kind of ice cream we should have and I drive down to the store to get it. It's also a fact that I recently purchased a new Pontiac and since then my trips to the store have created a problem.....You see, everytime I buy a vanilla ice-cream, when I start back from the store my car won't start. If I get any other kind of ice cream, the car starts justfine.

I want you to know I'm serious about this question, no matter how sillyit sounds "What is there about a Pontiac that makes it not start when I get vanilla ice cream, and easy to start whenever I get any other kind?" The Pontiac President was understandably sceptical about the letter, but sent an Engineer to check it out anyway. The latter was surprised to be greeted by a successful, obviously well educated man in a fineneighbourhood.

He had arranged to meet the man just after dinner time, so the two hopped into the car and drove to the ice cream store. It was vanilla ice cream that night and, sure enough, after they came back to the car, it wouldn'tstart. The Engineer returned for three more nights. The first night, they got chocolate. The car started. The second night, he got strawberry. The car started. The third night he ordered vanilla. The car failed to start. Now the engineer, being a logical man, refused to believe that this man's car was allergic to vanilla ice cream. He arranged, therefore, to continue his visits for as long as it took to solve the problem.A nd toward this end he began to take notes: He jotted down all sorts of data: time of day, type of gas uses, time to drive back and forth etc.

In a short time, he had a clue: the man took less time to buy vanilla than any other flavour. Why? The answer was in the layout of the store. Vanilla, being the most popular flavour, was in a separate case at the front of the store for quick pickup. All the other flavours were kept in the back ofthe store at a different counter where it took considerably longer to checkout the flavour. Now, the question for the Engineer was why the car wouldn't start when it took less time. Eureka- Time was now the problem - not the vanilla icecream!!!!

The engineer quickly came up with the answer: "vapour lock". It was happening every night; but the extra time taken to get the other flavours allowed the engine to cool down sufficiently to start. When the man got vanilla, the engine was still too hot for the vapour lock to dissipate

Remember :Even crazy looking problems are sometimes real and all problems seem to be simple only when we find the solution , with cool thinking. Don't just say it is "IMPOSSIBLE" without putting a sincere effort....Observe the word"IMPOSSIBLE" carefully.... Looking closer you will see, "I'M POSSIBLE"...What really matters is your attitude and your perception.

ONCE...World Toilet Day

19th November has been declared as the World Toilet Day! As reported last Saturday in NST we have to treat toilet with respect. No doubt our public toilets are dirty. Since it is World Toilet Day.. hey ! it's not only in Malaysia...the whole world have the same problems! And we have the World Toilet Organization to monitor, advice, educate and speak about best standards in Toilet Design, Cleanliness, Maintenance, Quality of Work and Sanitation Technologies. So, it's more than just "Respect to Toilets!".

Anyway, why our public toilets are so dirty ? Not condusive ? Low hygiene ? It's because IT IS NOT MINE !!! Obviously, our toilet at home, we'll make sure we flush after use, put up the toilet seat, decorated nicely, try not to wet the whole toilet, put rubbish (tissue or whatever..) in the dustbin, etc. But when we are at public toilets, we don't care one...throw the tissue and rubbish in the toilet bowl (because if it stucks there, that toilet that have the problem, the smell..and not MY toilet), don't bother to flush (next person will...nasib laa), squat on toilet that leave shoe-prints among others. For PLUS RnR's toilet is clean and comfortable because they have dedicated people to take care of the toilets (which is one of the objectives of WTO; professional restroom cleaners).

The IT'S NOT MINE mentality not only speaks itself at the toilet. We can see at public parks, public parkings, restaurants, trunk road/highways among others. People simple wind-down their window and throw a bag of junk-food waste, soft-drink cans out of their car. They must be thinking "don't u create a mess in my beautiful car...out u go!!!". Well, it's not my road. Another example, at RnR parking bay, as he about to continue his journey, he emptied his door container from all the receipts, sweets covers there and then. The dustbin is just 10 steps away ! Will he do it at his porch ?! I wish that I have the guts (authority better) to scold (if not punch his dumb, stupid, big head) him for doing that.

That also goes to our public/civil service servants...THIS IS NOT MY COMPANY ! I'M HERE TO GET MY SALARY ONLY ! WORK IS ALWAYS THERE ! To say solely the mentality lies in civil servants is not fair, because most employees have that mindset. Sadly for me...it does exist in my company as well...

ONCE...justice for Iman al-Hams ???

What the f*** ?! Very sad...i'm speechless...

- don't know what to say...
- don't what to think...
- don't know how to feel...
- don't know how to react...

- when will this be over ?
- when can we have peace in the world ?
- when can we not kill a human being ?
- when can we not kill innocent people ?

as of "Captain R", what more can we say...? the trial was in Israel... their court... their people... their soldiers... their lawyers... their judges... their sentiments... their thinking... their judgement... their justifications...

do we expect justice from them ?

ONCE...teachers on 5 working days

I read it in the newspaper that the teachers are asking for 5 working days. Same like all the other civil servants. Why they should work more, long hours, weekends while other civil servants are enjoying their weekends? Don't know where goes all the values to teach and guide our youngsters to be a good man/woman, strive for excellence, patriotic, high etique and stuffs. To some extend we can't blame them so much. Because my view is, most of them become teachers by force. They can't find any better job out there that could bring the RM they aiming for, so they go for teaching. This people may have not-so-good grades, or good grades but lack of confidence, communication skills, etc. So this are the kind of teachers we have (not all...but could be the majority of them now) currently.

They said they are willing to work 9 hours, just like the other civil servants. What make me wonder also is, should they enjoy the 2 months plus school holiday still ? What's next ?! The civil servants asking for the same amount of holidays ? Or our children have less holidays as school can't have those holidays anymore ? Or children still have holidays but not the teachers, just like our lecturers (who come to check-IN at 8 am, go back or do other things, then check-OUT at 5pm during semester break) ?

Well then, soon enough we will here again outcry of why our students' quality is worsening, our big Us are losing ranking, our children school bag are heavier, productivity level are not satisfactory, skilled workers and knowledge workers (especially) are declining, brain drain and other issues. As our PM pointed out, "First world infrastructure, Third world mentality"!

ONCE...PSFE2005

Come and visit ! Great awareness and education on the payment systems; offerings, technology, etc that already available in Malaysia...Online payment, electronic mall, mobile payment and much more...come on..registration is free !

ONCE...Raya without my Father

This is the 1st time we are celebrating Aidil Fitri without Ayah. What I don't quite understand is...why we don't miss him so much ? It was as if he'd left us for some time. But it's just 4 months ! I went to visit him on the Raya's eve...sedekah Yasin and doa. During 'beraya' session, only my sister cried. Maybe because during his funeral, everything was done in lightning speed. Even if I was in Jakarta that time, I'd surely not be able to see him for the last time. He don't want to be delayed. "Don't wait for anybody! Execute it as fast as possible." that was his request. And that was exactly, how we've done it.

"Semoga rohnya dicucuri rahmat Allah sentiasa...Amin"

This year, I wanna go to most (if not all) my relatives' house. I told my wife, "we are going to jalan sakan this year :D"...surely she loves it! No doubt, people really excited that I came. Mak Andak really surprised that we came yesterday..."see, people do love to see you come to their house" told my wife. Ye le...I appreciate it better now. So, this weekend would be to her relatives and friends.

This weekend also need to spend some time at home. Need to cut the grass, clean the floor, decorate a bit, make it like a 'real' home again. Since her company's dinner that she thought would be this weekend actually is next month, guess we'll be spending more time at PA. Whoever wanna come, better call first la oh...otherwise, sorry no cure ler...

Funny !!! That day I have so many things to put in here...but then...gone with the wind...dunno why like that.