Fisherman's Wharf

I walk with you Haris!

2008-08-04T19:55:00.000-07:00

the only candle lighted at Dataran

Haris is initiating another petition to His Majesty the Yang DiPertuan Agong to register our concerns on the judicial appointments and to appeal for His Majesty’s intervention.

The position of Chief Justice falls vacant on 18th October, 2008.

I support Haris Ibrahim petition to the Agung to not sanction the appointment of Tan Sri Zaki as Chief Justice.

In October, 2007 5,036 anak-anak Bangsa Malaysia petitioned His Majesty, appealing that Fairuz’s term as Chief Justice not be extended, as was then sought by the Prime Minister. His Majesty did take note of the concerns voiced by those 5,036 individuals.

You can make the difference, show that you care by taking part in this petition.

The link http://www.PetitionOnline.com/6ai18u26/

cheers cobber

Cafe Fullhouse

2008-07-13T03:38:00.000-07:00

I am very busy at this moment putting the finishing touch to Cafe Fullhouse that will launch it's soft opening on the 18th of July. I have the pleasure to help the owner to set up the kitchen and planned the cafe menu.

The food served at Cafe Fullhouse will be a mixture of western and local food. The special item I introduced is nasi dagang, the secret recipe came all the way from Trengganu.

an antique Austin

This cafe is located at Nui Zie Xui, Damansara Ara.

The concept of this cafe is a gift shop,where food and beverages are also served.

I am happy to be able to be part of the team and I wished Tommy and Adam the best in their future endeavour.

cheers cobber

Pond of Red

2008-07-09T01:48:00.000-07:00

Taffer's Room, Hawkeye, Old Ben and me reach PJ stadium around 11am, during the journey we noticed 2 road block along Old Klang road manned by 2 police personal. We did not noticed any police or army presence at the vicinity of the stadium,however Pas's Unit Amal were out there to supervise the traffic and securities. Didn't have any problem to find a parking space next to the stadium entrance. The intimidation by the authorities must have work as there were less than 5,000 participants when we entered the stadium.

Hawkeye and I make our way to the nearest food stall for a decent bowl of soup beef noodle for brunch. The Malay style beef soup spiced with herbs is refreshing from the famous one that I usually enjoyed at Ipoh.

the bloggers and the bloggee.

Meet E Woon, People's Parliament and Meesh in the stadium, they left early.The helicopter which we are familiar now make it's routine appearance, this time we are also entertained by unidentified people high up on the roof of Glomac building. I discovered that I cannot make any calls or sms when the organiser asked us to get our friends and families using our hand phones to fill the stadium. Capt. Lokeman suggested that intelligence agents must be at work using sophisticated gadgets to jam up communication.

We stayed till around 4 pm before a few of us make a dash to the nearest watering hole to quench our thirst, for our hunger we must have polished 2 loaf of toasted bread with chicken curry. By now I estimated the crowd must have swelled to 10,000 and rising.

The cry of "TURUN TURUN" followed by "TURUN MINYAK" and "TURUN BN" were chanted by all the speakers and the organiser MC, do creep under my nerve as the cries were overdone but that's the main purpose of this rally.

a little darling at Protes

Don't that bring a tear to your eyes and if anyone dare to tell me that her parent is irresponsible
to bring her to the rally, I tell you, especially those who did not attend the rally, you do not have the right to make any moral judgement. The Rakyat are suffering from the fuel hike and many are desperate to make end need. The burdens faced by majorities of Rakyat are real and the full blunt are coming knocking soon. Wondering if she will have a full stomach when she rest tonight?

Deputy Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak today labelled the day-long anti-oil hike rally yesterday as a failure because of the poor turnout.

MCPX

He said that the rally, organised by the Coalition Against Inflation (Protes) at the Kelana Jaya stadium, had failed to achieve its target of one million people.

I really think that BN politician is either thick in his head or thick in his face. The Rakyat are crying for help and here he think he is participating a popular contest. It doesn't matter a million people didn't turn up at the Protes rally because for every rakyat there ,a thousand more rakyat are supporting the cause silently. Removed the bullying and intimidating threats from politician, police and now military, the stadium, if not the streets in Malaysia will be filled with seas of red and not a pond of red at PJ stadium.

Were informed that at least 30,000 rakyat turned up latter in the evening to hear opposition leaders especially Lim Kit Siang and Anwar giving their speech.

cheers cobber

Can the real Bala please come forward !

2008-07-08T21:16:00.000-07:00

I got a sms from Zorro at around 3pm informing that there will be another PC at PKR headquarters at 5pm. Seem that Bala have a change of heart and make a second Statutory Declaration stating that the content made in the 1st SD are false and want to retract it.

Lawyer Americk Singh said that Bala must have make the second SD under duress after having kari kepala ikan with a certain ASP at Brickfield. But Bala declared that he make the first SD under the same circumstances too. That doesn't make PKR and Singh look good and hence another PC in less than 24 hours.

Look like there are a lot of arses to cover because Singh got another lawyer Manjeet to guard his back.During QA , Manjeet interjected and answered certain deem non favourable questions thrown by the press towards Americk.

part of the audience at the PC.

Balasubramanian's nephew have make a police reporting that his uncle and his family is missing. The police believes that Bala is presently hiding in a neighbourly Asean country. Last night Bala gave R Kumaresan a call informing that he is alright but could not talk freely. He did not reveal his whereabout when asked by his nephew.

Bala at the 1st PC

Bala at the 2nd PC

At least we know that he is still alive and his family is safe. Putting aside all the speculation of what prompt Bala to make flip flop SDs and whatever the reasons why he went missing immediately after his 2nd SD, can the real Bala please step forward? The public demand the truth from you

cheers cobber

Balasubramaniam Revelations

2008-07-03T01:44:00.000-07:00

PKR HQ, Merchant Square, Tropicana.

Received a sms from People's Parliament last night that DSAI will be holding a press conference this morning at 11am at PKR headquarter to reveal evidence linking Najib to Altantuya.

Forget about the PC until I read in Zorro blog that he will be attending the PC, I estimated that I can just make it on time unless there is a traffic jam.

Need to register before they allowed you to enter the building,the conference room is on the 1st floor.Note this, all media need to register themselves except Utusan Melayu, they are not welcome. I got in as a blogger after the security verified with Zorro.

Malaysiakini

Private investigator P Balasubramaniam has made shocking claims that Deputy Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak had links with murdered Mongolian Altantuya Shaariibuu.

MCPX

He revealed that Najib had also informed his close associate Abdul Razak Baginda that Inspector General of Police Musa Hassan was 'taking care' of the murder case which implicated Abdul Razak.

He further revealed that his evidence linking Najib to the murdered Mongolian was removed by the police and prosecutors during the murder trial - a move seen to protect the DPM

These shocking revelations were made by Balasubramaniam in a statutory declaration which he filed on July 1 and was revealed by PKR de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim in a packed press conference this morning.

click here to read Anwar press statement and Balasubramaniam SD

cheers cobber

Anwar fight back and he is not alone this time

2008-07-01T21:45:00.000-07:00

Old Ben took a rain cheque so I went alone to Stadium Melawati, the second time this week, this time to attend Anwar Ibrahim gathering. When I entered the stadium at 8.30pm it's already half fill and people are flowing in from all direction. What a big difference compared to the Anti-ISA rally a few day ago.

At the stand the leaders of PR gathered to show their support for Anwar, YB Sivarasa gave the first speech, telling the crowd that he and PKR legal team are ready to fight to the end for Anwar Ibrahim. YB Azmin then took the stage, he pledged his loyalty to Anwar and urged all PKR supporters and Rakyat to stand firm with the great leader in this time of tribulation.

When Anwar entered the stadium, the cheering, clapping and the battle cry REFORMASI were deafening. The atmosphere were electrifying, everyone was standing ,waving, the adulation and admiration permeated the air, supporting the man who is designated to be the next Prime Minister of Malaysia.

Anwar have the crowd mesmerised for the next hour, telling the crowd that there will be a change of government soon. The accusation of sodomy by the government is the desperate measure of a sinking BN government to keep it's grip to power. The accusation is politically motivated and intended to kill his political comeback. He pointed out that the Government have got information that PKR wanted to announce a by election for Anwar to enter parliament. He also said that due to this development ,the announcement of 4 BN MP, 2 from UNMO joining PR will delayed to later date .

He vowed to fight to the end the new sodomy accusation, Lawan Tetap Lawan was the main theme and the fight now is not about Anwar Ibrahim but the fight for the Country and Rakyat Bangsa Malaysia. He touched on increased in cost of living and the people suffering and he reconfirmed that the price of petrol will be reduced once he come to power. The BN government is only interested to fill their pockets, taking care of their families and in- law but ignoring the plight and suffering of the rakyat ,clearly have the crowd roaring in support.

Anwar stressed that he is set up and he have proof that the former aide was in contact with police chief Musa Hassan and Najib wife Rosmah Mansur. The allegation was a conspiracy hatched from Najib office. Anwar will go on a nationwide roadshow to clear his name.

The people that I talked to believes that Anwar is innocent and the government is very afraid of him. I recalled before March 8th, the Prime Minister said who is Anwar, he is a nobody. How the tide have changed now. The people want a change in government as they see BN government weak and do not have the rakyat interest on their mind. The BN government is falling apart,where the 3 main parties are facing internal parties problems. The leaders are jostling for position, in fighting for their own political survivor.

Everyone believed that Anwar Ibrahim is the Nation saviour. we believe he will be able to fulfill his promise of ketuanan rakyat where all the races in Malaysia will have a fair go in every aspect.We expect the country economy to perform better when professionally managed by a capable team. The writing now is with all the happening with the present government, how much worse off can we expect if Anwar come to power?

I am ready to take the chance with Anwar, what about you?

cheers cobber

When it doesn't concern me,why care

2008-06-28T23:39:00.000-07:00

I called Old Ben at work asking him whether he is game for another round to show support ,this time the GMI gathering at Stadium Melawati at Shah Alam to repeal the draconian ISA act. Old Ben wondered whether the bone crushing, head opening, free and batons happy swinging troopers are there with their acid rain sprayer brothers.

Good question Bacherlorboy Ben as the beating incident at Bandar Mahkota Cheras and recently the arrest of 6 brave people at an anti fuel hike peace walk plus read a blog that there is a video of some beating at the fuel walk, show the police are batons happy now.

We meet at the Wharf's at 7.30pm , lost the way to the stadium and have to call Yewtube for direction. Walked into the stadium expecting a big crowd but was greeted by more media personal then participants. Meet fellow bloggers and friends at the middle terrace and everyone were disappointed at the poor turn up. The organiser expected 15,000 people and at 8.30 pm when the programme was suppose to start,I took a head count and estimated less than 500 people.

bloggers and friends at Stadium Melawati

The programme got on the way on 9.30pm with speakers from 2 ex detainee, a potential detainee from Hindraf and 4 other potential ISA candidates representative from PR. The experiences related by the ex detainee are not pleasant, they are tortured, humiliated, threatening their love one and I am sad such cruel inhuman acts are happening in civilised Malaysia. Every speakers call for the repeal of the ISA acts and the crowds agreed heartily.

The crowd trickle in slowly, at 10.30pm I estimated there are about 1,500 people.

We shared the grief of the families of the 70 odd detainees, the pain of the detainees some languishing at Kamunting Camp up to 6 years without court trial. I will pray to the ever loving and compassionate God to deliver all the detainees from the evil of ISA. Release them to rejoin and rebuilt their tattered life with their families.

I believe that the rakyat will turn out in force on the 6th at Jln. Timur, PJ to protest the fuel hike because the increase in petrol affect them. The word itself ISA, send shiver down our spines and put fear in our hearts. Don't you think it's already good reasons for us to support the call by concerned rakyat appealing the government to abolish the ISA acts?

cheers cobber

All Blogs 100 Days on 5th July

2008-06-26T19:14:00.000-07:00

5th JULY 2008
AT
BLOG HOUSE
66 LORONG SETIABISTARI 2
DAMANSARA HEIGHTS.
8.00PM

RM 30 PER PAC

REGISTER /PAYMENT TO:
YEW WEI KEAT (012-2138257)
514011899314 (MAYBANK)

LUCKY DRAW AND AUCTION

Sorry, I kena again

2008-06-24T18:15:00.000-07:00

KOTA KINABALU: SAPP's Sepanggar MP Datuk Eric Enchin Majimbun is with the party on its plan to pursue a no-confidence motion against the Prime Minister.

Denying a news report that he had abandoned the plan, the SAPP deputy president said national newspaper reports quoting him as saying that he never supported SAPP’s no-confidence motion were wrong.

“Our plan for the motion is still on but not necessarily tabled by me. Maybe there will be others who will table it,” he said.

Eric also said the SAPP supreme council meeting on Monday had not put any time frame for the no-confidence motion and the party has not decided if he would be the one to table the motion.

On his absence from Parliament, he reiterated the reason given by party president Datuk Yong Teck Lee that it was because of security reasons following intimidation and threats to them and their families by unknown people.

Eric and Tawau MP Datuk Dr Chua Soon Bui, who is also from SAPP, were recalled back to Kota Kinabalu by the party following claims of threats.

- The Star

I must apologize to Datuk Eric for believing the MSM when they reported that he never supported the motion of no-confidence. I really should ashamed of myself to be taken again by the false and spinning reporting. I always tell myself to double check the authenticity of the MSM report before making a conclusion. Sorry YB for doubting you, may the Almighty grant, strength and courage to you,Datuk Chua and SAPP in particular in this trying time.

You can see how powerful is the tool of information and how the people in authority have abused this medium again and again. I am very cynical of the news reported in MSM especially all the negative news against opposition parties. The paint up pictures and half truth can be mind boggling and make a sane person irritated, especially what the government want you to hear and believes.

I really feel for all those journalist and reporters that have their hands tied and can't report the truth as they see it. To the rest that cash in, I reserved my comment. Cari makan mah.

I have stop subscribing to the Star for about a year now. After suffering the expected withdrawal symptoms, I am fine now. It's like quitting cigarettes, just do it cold turkey, no but.

cheers cobber

Monday Blues

2008-06-23T08:03:00.000-07:00

This morning I woke up full of enthusiasm and looking forward for the anticipated firework that was promised by Datuk Yong of SAPP. Have been checking between Malaysia Today and Malaysiakini for news break. Quite frustrating for the elegant silent and my instinct told me that the motion of no confident is a non event, fizzled out like coca cola.

Old Ben called about noon and keep asking are we there yet? I told him no news yet and the old chap came up with a good suggestion. A reliable indicator if the motion had been carried out will be a sharp downturn of the share market

Later Balraj called for the same purpose and my brother in law sms me. I told them I have not receive any news from fellow bloggers so I guess nothing happen.

The 8pm news on Ntv 7 reported the non appearance of the 2 Sabah MP at parliament and SAPP deputy president Datuk Eric Majumbin, who is Sepanggar Member of Parliament, said he only stated that he had lost confidence in Abdullah's leadership and did not say anything about supporting vote of no confidence.

Old Ben concluded the no show of the two SAPP MP could be link to the 11 BN MP overseas at China on official business. I will be checking the seismograph to locate the epicentre of the coming earthquake.

We have two camps of thought regarding MP from Sabah and Sarawak leaving the coalition, not necessary joining PR, they could be independent. Being the king maker they will have better bargaining power and more autonomy.

One camp say the MP should just jump without having to consult the Rakyat while the other camp say the Rakyat should make the final decision whether the MP switch alliance. The MP planning to cross over should get consent by calling a meeting of rakyat of his constituency and show of hands to determined.

The way the economy is heading is not encouraging , rakyat are complaining about the increase in prices of all essential goods. Time are going to be tough and there are many businessmen complaining that business have been slow.

The Rakyat interest should be the priority of the Government of the day,regardless whether BN maintaining or PR coming to power. The party that takes the rakyat to heart have my support but they should get their act together fast. I am seeing Myanmar in the horizon.

cheers cobber

CELEBRATING 100 DAYS WITH OUR ELECTED YANG BERKHIDMATS.

2008-06-22T10:17:00.000-07:00

28 JUNE 2008
AT
BLOG HOUSE
66 LORONG SETIABISTARI 2
DAMANSARA HEIGHTS.
8.00PM

RM 30 PER PAC

REGISTER /PAYMENT TO:
YEW WEI KEAT (012-2138257)
514011899314 (MAYBANK)

LUCKY DRAW AND AUCTION

I believe in you

2008-06-22T01:54:00.000-07:00

The Anti-Corruption Agency’s investigation on Datuk Seri Yong Teck Lee for alleged payment of over RM5mil to his agents was not an instruction from “higher authorities” nor was it politically motivated.

ACA director-general Datuk Seri Ahmad Said Hamdan said neither was the agency’s decision to open an investigation paper on the Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) president a form of threat as claimed by Yong.

Latest, Surdiman is actually still alive and he make his living these days selling roti canai at Brickfield. He say that life as a celebrities is so depressing and now he lead a fulfilling life disguising as an Indian. He got married and now is the father to 2 sets of twins, all girls. A reliable rumour reported that Surdiman wife is from Bollywood India.No lah not an actress but a chef that use to work for Amitha Bachan.

Malaysian are mature enough and able to decide intelligently on information whether they read it from MSM or from the internet. In Yong case, the MSM should do what they done best like in the case of RPK declaration, total silent in all the medias.

After 12 years the ACA find it appropriate and timely to investigate Datuk Yong Teck Lee of SAPP. Toe the line, everything is fine, pay back time if you don't.

Malaysia Boleh

cheers cobber

Black Monday for BN

2008-06-20T18:40:00.000-07:00

Datuk Yong Teck Lee have started the political intrigue creating an atmosphere of interest and excitement when his Sabah based party SAPP have lost confidence in Abdullah's leadership and intend to table a motion of no confident against the Prime Minister on Monday when the Parliament resume it's sitting.

The political stunt conjured by Yong ,the 2 MP and supporters have not get them booted out of BN coalition when an emergency meeting was held. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak take a cautious soft stance that the 2 MP would be penalised for breach of party discipline if they breached the BN disciplinary code. Excuse me Najib ,I think they had breached the disciplinary code. Remember that guy from Cameron Highland when he was hauled up to face the disciplinary board almost immediately and have to apologise for speaking about the Hindraf issues in the last parliament.

Then BN have the 2/3 majority and the minor parties are there to make up the numbers or politically have the rakyat believes BN represented national unity. The MP must toe the line and action taken at the slightest provocation. Now the scenario have changed, Najib have to handle the situation carefully,sacking SAPP from BN coalition might prompt a major exodus of MP to support the motion come Monday.

How does Ku Li and Mahathir know in advance about a certain party planning to hold the PM ransom and have been throwing caution in the air for UNMO members? Are we suggesting that Anwar, other PR leaders, the hopeful PM to be and has been PM of UNMO are all in this together to mastermind this plan to forcefully bring Abdullah to his knees? Someone powerful must have convinced Yong that a change of power is imminent, it's wise for SAPP to switch camp and in the process will spur other component parties to follow suit.

So Abdullah is fighting back to keep all the potential defector in line. Immediately after Yong announced his intention he got friendly visit from the ACA to minum kopi about a 5 million payment that happened in 1996 when Yong was the CM of Sabah. Is Abdullah hinting to all the MP that everyone have a skeleton in the closet and yours truly will not hesitate to expose it?

I shall anxiously anticipate another political tsunami on Monday or will the affair fizzle out like coca- cola. The Dewan Speaker is having a hard time trying to remain neutral and even an ex Law minister is involved in explaining why the motion of no confidence against Malaysia Prime Minister cannot be carried out. The motion suggested by SAPP on Monday will happen,it's sooner or later,we are living in interesting time.

I believe in the emergence of 2 non racial multi party coaliation that will fight for the right of rakyat. Gone are the day when the government command jump and the rakyat answer how high.

cheers cobber

Why I fired my secretary

2008-06-18T09:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my birthday
and I didn't feel very well
waking up on that morning.

I went downstairs for breakfast
hoping my wife would be pleasant and say,
'Happy Birthday!',
and possibly have a small present for me.

As it turned out,
she barely said good morning,
let alone
' Happy Birthday.'

I thought...

Well, that's marriage for you,
but the kids...
They will remember.

My kids came bounding down stairs to breakfast
and didn't say a word.
So when I left for the office,
I felt pretty low
and somewhat despondent.

As I walked into my office,
my secretary Jane said,
'Good Morning Boss,
and by the way
Happy Birthday ! '
It felt a little better
that at least someone had remembered.

I worked until one o'clock ,
when Jane knocked on my door
and said, 'You know,
It's such a beautiful day outside,
and it is your Birthday,
what do you say we go out to lunch,
just you and me.'
I said, 'Thanks, Jane,
that's the greatest thing
I've heard all day.
Let's go !'

We went to lunch.
But we didn't go
where we normally would go.
She chose instead at a quiet bistro
with a private table.
We had two martinis each
and I enjoyed the meal tremendously.

On the way back to the office,
Jane said, 'You know,
It's such a beautiful day....
We don't need to go straight back to the office,
Do We ?'

I responded,
'I guess not.
What do you have in mind ?'
She said,
'Let's drop by my apartment,
it's just around the corner.'

After arriving at her apartment,
Jane turned to me and said,
' Boss, if you don't mind,
I'm going to step into the bedroom
for just a moment.
I'll be right back.'
'Ok.' I nervously replied.

She went into the bedroom and,
after a couple of minutes,
she came out
carrying a huge birthday cake ...
Followed
by my wife,
my kids,
and dozens of my friends
and co-workers,
all singing 'Happy Birthday'.

And I just sat there...

On the couch...

Naked.

Busy at Niu Ze Xui

2008-06-18T06:54:00.000-07:00

I have been busy helping a friend's son to start a boutique cafe at Niu Ze Xui, Damansara Ara. The concept of this cafe Fullhouse is to sell custom jewellery, fancy items, gifts, fashion clothing on the ground level and a drinking place on the 1st floor.

I am there to create the cafe menu, floor plan of the kitchen, getting the right kitchen equipments, and design the drinks station. I have spend 2 months on this project, countless meetings, choosing suppliers, kitchen equipment contractors,

The cafe will have the soft opening on the 25th of June and this week is so hectic, busy training the back of the house staff to be operationally ready. Plenty of food testing to get the menu right.

Since the increase of petrol prices, I am having a horrid time to come up with a new food costing list. The projected profit and loss need to be adjusted. Right now we play by ears as there are many uncertainties due to prices increases across the board.

I will only have more time for myself at the end of his month. Off course I am at the Wharf's every night.

cheers cobber

Finally some good news

2008-06-18T05:16:00.000-07:00

I am so fed up with the bad news that Badawi dished out last week. The expensive petrol price, ironically most BN cronies still maintained it's still the cheapest in this region. Wait lah when the prices for essential goods hit the ceiling, I hope they choked in their own tears.

The increase in the rates of electricity will further make my wallet thinner and TNB CEO Datuk Seri Che Khalib Mohamad Nor getting unconfirmed 100% pay rise just make my day.

What about the Son in Law calls for Petronas accounts to be made public, why now? Don't make sense to me. More about him then the rakyat interest.

Aah, some good news from Sabah , doesn't seem much with only 2 MP but surely will start the Exodus. Come on MPs, what are you waiting for?

Sabah Progressive Party (Sapp) today announced that it would move a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi when Parliament resumes on Monday. It is the first time in the history of the nation that a vote of no-confidence is to be moved against a prime minister.

The vote of no confidence against Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi cannot be tabled on Monday as this has to be done in accordance with the Standing Orders of the Dewan Rakyat, said Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz.

The Minister in the Prime Minister's Department who is in charge of Parliament said that under Standing Orders rule 27, a notice for any motion had to be given in writing 14 days in advance.

Regardless what happen on Monday, the political ball have start rolling, please keep the momentum going.

Dr.Seng , you can get the bottle of Old Parr ready.

Allo, guys, you are most welcome to join me.

cheers cobber

My travelling costs to Johor Bahru

2008-06-10T02:30:00.000-07:00

I have not been to Johor for a long long time, if my memory served me right, the last time was about 4 years ago to attend my high school reunion. The event was held at Desaru ie, Covina Cove. A nice resort for a weekend get away, travelled a few kilometers to a small fishing village to enjoy fresh seafood but I remember paying Singapore prices.

This time I have to attend my God parent 50th wedding anniversary in Johor Bahru. My two children, wife and mom started our journey from Kajang using the old route, passing Mantin to Seremban. Didn't use the highway because my brother in law phoned to inform of a massive jam at Nilai.

Filling up full tank the Nissan Terrano for the first time after the fuel increased , the car petrol tank take in RM 150.00 compared to the normal RM 110.00. When I reached JB, I immediately filled up the car again and found I spend RM 130.00. So petrol set me back RM 260.00 return and the toll charges RM 41.90 + RM 2.10 times two, equal RM 88. A grand total of RM 354.00.

Spend a night at my sister place and attend the lunch function which lasted till 4pm. Catching up with the family clan and meeting cousin, uncles,aunties which I haven't seen for ages. Have an enjoyable time and after wishing everybody goodbye,travelled back to KL with might be one drink above the legal limit.

cheers cobber

Indonesians in Kuala Lumpur

2008-06-10T00:42:00.001-07:00

Suharto and Bambang are both beggars at several traffic lights in Kuala Lumpur. Suharto drives a Mercedes, lives in a loan-free house, and has a lot of money to spend. Bambang only brings in 2 to 3 ringgit a day.

Bambang asks Suharto how he manages to bring home a suitcase full of RM 10 notes every day. Suharto say” Look at your sign, its says, “ I have no work, a wife and six kids to support.”

‘Malaysian who see that do not feel as if they accomplish anything by giving you money.

You still have no job and a large family whether they give you money or not!’

Now look at my sign!’

Bambang looks at Suharto’s sign which reads: “I need another RM 10 to move back to Indonesia!”

Cheers cobber

Candlelight Vigil at Kamunting

2008-06-06T18:30:00.000-07:00

Police have advised people not to participate in an anti-Internal Security Act (ISA) candlelight vigil by Gerakan Mansuhkan ISA (Abolish ISA Movement) at the Kamunting Detention Camp here tomorrow. The movement plans the vigil at 8pm to call for the release of 70 ISA detainees at the camp.

Three of my Anak Bangsa Malaysia brothers will be at Taiping this evening to participate a candlelight vigil. I am sorry my friends, I can't keep this appointment because I have to attend my God parent marriage anniversary at Johor Bahru.

To all the brave souls that are gathering tonight at Kamunting, I pray our God the highest, have mercy and bless all the Anak Bangsa Malaysia who are walking into unknown territories tonight.

The police are not Rakyat friendly and instead of taking care of Rakyat safety to hold the candlelight vigil,the prospect of acid rain, baton and boots are not remote.

To all this unselfish conscientious people, thank you very much. The down trodden, marginalised and persecuted Rakyat will know they always have friends to share and help to carry their burden.

To Zorro, Yew tube and People's Parliament take care ,I have a 15 years old malt to celebrate when you are home at the Wharf's.

cheers cobber

Escape to Nirwana

2008-06-04T18:57:00.000-07:00

My hidden paradise

I put up a posting in April about the increase in beer price and stated that running a watering hole is a sunset industry.

When Calsberg and Anchor Guinness increased the price of beer many establishment have raises their beer prices by 20-40 cents. I am still absorbing the cost increase and wondering when to pass the burden to my regulars.

After last night announcement by Abdullah,the hike in petrol and electricity rates,I have no choice but to increase my beer prices and prices in my food menu.

The consolation news to my regulars is that I will increase prices on the 1 st of July.

Prices of vegetables ,rice, chicken,milk ,sugar,flour, gas... etc have already been raising steadily. The increased in petrol and electricity rates will now have spiralling effect on these consumer items. I dare not think of what is the possible outcome to this dilemma.

Raising of prices for goods and services provided by the business communities to offset the escalating increase in cost is not the solution in the long run. With the uncertainty in the increases prices of products, establishment can't project their running costs and balance sheets. It's not good business to change selling price every time costs increases.

I can't see the light at the end of this nightmare tunnel.Business is going to be badly hit. I have to sit back and wait for the full extend of the effect of prices increases. Then I will try to pick up the pieces of what's left. In the mean time ,I need all my experiences and a bit of God help to fight this battle.With so many variables, I acknowledge it's not going to be easy. Hope I can pull this one out.

Suddenly, I longed to be at this paradise that I have visited for the past 10 years. It's the place where you leave all your problems behind and be in one with nature. Your whole beings blended with the sea, the stretch of powdered white sand beach. Walking amongst the rain forest fauna and flora.

A place where you lay under the coconut tree, catch up on a book and a cool beer on hand. Relax, chill and watch the world goes by. Your life not controlled by time and earthly desired.

cheers cobber

Bloody Hell, Petrol Price now at RM 2.70

2008-06-04T07:35:00.000-07:00

I was on the way back from Seremban when I was caught in a traffic jam stretching from Sungai Besi toll to the Petronas petrol station near Sri Petaling interchange.

I didn't know about the increase and thought that the petrol station is doing a roaring business today.

When I reached home, looking out from my apartment windows, I saw a stretch of cars, bumper to bumper, jamming the road in front of the apartment which always have low traffic. I wondered what had happened. I am still in the dark.

After watching our Prime Minister announcing the price increase effective from midnight on TV 7 news, it dawn to me the reason for the traffic jams. Didn't the Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Datuk Shahrir Samad announced the petrol price hike will only be effective in August?

Abdullah said the new price for petrol is RM2.70 a litre, effective midnight tonight. The price goes up by 78sen from the current RM1.92, a hike of 40%.

Abdullah also announced that the price of diesel would be increased by RM1 from RM1.58 to RM2.58.

He also said that Tenaga Nasional Bhd would be raising electricity rates by 18% for homes and 26% for business users.

The announcements are part of the new fuel subsidy plan.

Abdullah also announced a RM625 annual cash rebate per vehicle, for owners of private vehicles with engine capacities of up to 2,000cc, as well as pickup trucks and jeeps with engine capacities of up to 2,500cc.

Owners of private motorcycles with engine capacities of up to 250cc will receive RM150.

Payment will be made via Money Order upon renewal of road tax, from July 1.

For owners of private vehicles with engine capacities exceeding 2000cc, road tax will be reduced by RM200.

Owners of private motorcycles with engine capacities above 250 cc will get RM50 reduction in road tax.

At Fisherman's Wharf the regulars complained about the traffic jam occurring all over Klang Valley. The motorist make 3 lane queue leading to petrol stations leaving one lane available for traffic. For drivers not wanting to spend the next 2 hrs waiting for their turn to fill up the tanks, frustration and temper flare.

The regulars are busy calculating on how the increase in petrol price is going to hurt their pockets and having a hard time contemplating on which luxuries to cut down. Hope drinking is not one of their priority.

Why the haste to implement the price immediately? Give the rakyat at least 24 hrs notice, make sure enough petrol to go round so that all have the last chance to enjoy petrol at RM 1.92.

The inflation rate will definitely rise, all essential goods will be more expensive. Cost of living shooting thru the roof and the rakyat suffering trying to make end need. Hope the country will not go into a recession.

Now I really wondered whether the rakyat that voted for BN regretted wasting their precious votes. They should have believed the Pakatan Rakyat election manifesto that petrol prices will be reduced if not maintained when PR comes to power.

cheers cobber

Catholic School

2008-05-30T09:58:00.000-07:00

Little Zachary was doing very badly in math.
His parents had tried everything... Tutors,
Mentors, flash cards,
Special learning centers. In short, everything
They could think of to help his math.

Finally, in a last ditch effort, they took
Zachary down and enrolled him
In the local Catholic school. After the first
Day, little Zachary came home with a very
Serious look on his face. He didn't even kiss his mother Hello.
Instead, he went straight to his room and
Started studying. Books and papers were spread
Out all over the room and little Zachary was hard at work.
His mother was amazed. She called him down to dinner.

To her shock, the minute he was done, he march! ed back
To his room without a word, and in no time, he was back
Hitting the books as hard as before. This went on
For some time, day after day, while the mother
Tried to understand what made all the difference. Finally, little Zachary brought home his report
Card He quietly laid it on the table, went up to his
Room and hit the books. With great trepidation,
His Mom looked at it and to her great surprise,
Little Zachary got an "A" in math. She could no
Longer hold her curiosity.
She went to his room and said, "Son, what was it?
Was it the nuns?" Little Zachary looked at her and
Shook his head, no. "Well, then," she replied,
Was it the books, the discipline, the structure, the
Uniforms? "WHAT WAS IT ALREADY?"

Little Zachary looked at her and said, "Well, on
The first day of school when I saw that guy nailed to
The plus sign, I knew they weren't fooling around."

Deputy home minister justifies police action at BMC clash

2008-05-30T05:25:00.001-07:00

Deputy Home Minister Chor Chee Heung (BN-Alor Star) explained that the police initially did not interfere with the scuffle between Bandar Mahkota Cheras residents and alleged thugs because they were waiting for back-up.The few police personnel present were managing traffic and were unable to act due to their numbers.

"They only managed to get the district police chief to send more enforcement to that area. By the time the FRU (Federal Reserve Unit) and police officers showed up, the scuffle had already ended.

"All they could do was to issue warnings and told the crowd to disperse. In the confusion, residents were beaten up by unidentified thugs and they decided to use more force by using a car to knock police officeChor's report shows that a Proton Wira driven by three men and a woman allegedly tried to knock down several police officers. They were subsequently detained by the police.

"I believe in the confusion, many accusations have been made against the police and thugs. After that, residents were told to lodge police reports," he said.

He pointed out that the police are currently investigating into the nine police reports lodged of which none involved complaints against the police.

"Those who were said to have been beaten up by the police, I urge you all to come forward and lodge a police report," he said.

"The police are professional enough and I am confident that they can investigate properly into this. Don't just base all your accusations on Malaysiakini."

I am searching for a word to describe how I feel about the comments made by this Deputy Home Minister.

Sorry, I am lost for words.

A compassionate, fair minded person would not justifies the police action and call for an inquiry to find the truth and fact to this matter.

Whoever found in the wrong should face the law and be punished accordingly.

I say Mr Chor will sing another tune to the public if he is not diligently doing his call of duties in Parliament.

Would Mr Chor take the same stand if any of his family member or friends faces similar predicament?

cheers cobber

Where is the love ?

2008-05-28T07:27:00.000-07:00

Chang Jiun Haur

Chang, 21, his sister and two friends were driving away from the site of the barricade about 11.30pm, when their car was surrounded by police personnel who had earlier dealt with a fracas involving BMC residents.

A high-ranking police officer at the scene claimed that Chang had run over a FRU personnel with his car.

“He asked for it. He ran over a policeman and he got what he deserved,” the officer told Malaysiakini a few minutes after the incident.

Asked to identify the person who was hit by the car, the officer had initial difficulty in persuading the individual to come forward.When he did so, the man - who appeared unscathed - claimed: “He tried to run me over... look at my baton, it is broken. What more evidence do you want?”

However, a police officer who took Chang to the Kajang Hospital said none of the personnel had been hit by the car.

Chang, when met at the hospital at 12.30am, denied this as well: “We had just come back (to Kuala Lumpur) from Port Dickson and wanted to see what was going on.

HE was lying on a bed, with a bloodied mouth. His shirt had been torn off by the police, and his shorts were drenched in blood. He was crying from the shock and trauma, and was unable to say much more.

Do you think there is law in our country?

Given that Chang had the intention to run over one of the FRU personnel, have him arrested and charge him in court. If he is found guilty of injuring a FRU personnel or in the worst scenario he accidentally took an innocent life, he has to pay his dues to society.

How could the high- ranking police officer claim that Chang deserve their special treatment.

Giving Chang the benefit of doubt I am afraid to imagine what would happen if he had actually accidentally killed one of them.

cheers cobber

Sam, get me a single malt,no ice

2008-05-27T08:01:00.000-07:00

If you were around in 1919 (just before prohibition started) and came upon the following poster…..

I mean, seriously, would you quit drinking?

cheers cobber

Barisan National vs Anwar Ibrahim

2008-05-26T03:53:00.000-07:00

I have taken a very interesting bet with Dr. Seng last night.

I made the statement that I strongly feel that Anwar Ibrahim have the 48 BN members of Parliament ready to join Pakatan Rakyat . A new Government will be form by September as claimed by the PM in waiting himself.

Dr. Seng believes that Barisan National will still hold on to the Federal Government but very likely to lose to Pakatan Rakyat in the next general election.

So we decided a friendly wager to put where our mouth is.

cheers cobber

That Island is not ours anymore

2008-05-25T21:06:00.000-07:00

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Rais Yatim described the judgement by ICJ to grant Singapore Pulau Batu Puteh and Malaysia The Rocks as a fair win win situation.

Are we suppose to be happy and grateful that we still own Middle Rocks and the South Ledge?

I am a Johorean and a proud Malaysian. I am not happy that the Government had to concede
Pedra Blanca to Singapore. I am sore that our legal team lead by the AG were poorly prepared and let us down with this doctored photo.

Singapore gained Pulau Batu Puteh because you came well prepared and caught us with our pants down.

Malaysian fishermen are advised not to do any fishing activities until the maritime boarders are decided. I hope your livelihood are not affected.

I have plan to do some angling at this area. Was told that trolling for Tenggiri, Queenfish can be very rewarding.

I am angry that I didn't carry out my angling plan earlier and regretted that I never appreciated things which I took for granted until it's taken away.

cheers cobber

Martin Zamigano and Kanmani woes

2008-05-24T08:03:00.000-07:00

Please take a walk into any popular Indian music center and try to obtain a copy of Kanmani. There is a problem. You will notice that the music albums from India are prominently display and the local Indian music albums are obscurely placed just to make up the numbers.

Now try asking the foreign hired Indian staff for a copy of Martin's album , they will give you a blank look and blur blur asked , "Kan Apa?, no stock lah" Hello, you wanted a local boy music album and heck, they are trying to sell you India's Indian album that they are familiar with.

I know it makes good business senses to display the popular foreign Indian albums strategically but the local Indian music artistes need some support here too.

Place the local albums prominently with the hot selling India albums. Trained the foreign staff product knowledge and introduced them the bio data and profile of the local artistes.

How on earth can our local talented artistes get all the recognition and credits, most importantly financial reward if their albums are not easy to obtained.

The album Kanmani was officially launch in November 2007, was voted the best Malaysian Indian Album hosted by AIM on May 3rd. Since then THR Raaga radio and Vaanavil Astro TV have been consistently giving coverage to Martin's album. Hopefully other media in Malaysia can also give more consideration.

When Kanmani was launch, the local music observers predicted that this album will hit recorded sale. Getting the best local Indian music award should help this album to secured this record. The recording company Maestro and album distributor Raaga say Kanmani are performing below expectation.

Martin Zamigano came to Fisherman's Wharf last night, pick up a conversation with him.I found him not his usual self, do some probing and was confided with Kanmani woes. I decided to put up this posting to share Martin's personal thought on this matter.

Indian music fans out there, for some good stuff made in Malaysia Indian music,make sure you get a copy . If you find difficulty to buy this album you can get one at Fisherman's Wharf. I think Martin will certainly be honoured to personally autograph your Kanmani Album.

cheers cobber

That's a nice touch , mate

2008-05-21T03:27:00.000-07:00

1067, Jln Jenjarum, Kg. Sg. Kayu Ara,
off Jln ss 23/10,
47400 PJ

Reservation 03 78031832

When Zorro asked Benny, Arthur, Serena and me to attend a charity dinner for the cyclone victims in Myanmar and the earthquake victims in China,we agreed immediately.

Arthur can't make it due to an engagement in Johor, I will fill him the details later.

We meet Ancient Mariner at the entrance of Damansara Village Seafood Restaurant, Mr & Mrs Zorro, Yew tube were already waiting at a table nearest to the aquariums. Little Taffer's room joined us later.

The best seafood steamboat I have tasted. The fish,prawns, clam and crabs are served fresh from the aquariums. The other items like slice abalone, fish ball, tofu, mussels, straw mushroom, etc .....
are very fresh too. The secret that make this restaurant steamboat so delicious must be the soup. A must try.

Patrick Teoh will be in Langkawi to do filming for a German 2.5 hrs drama. He will play the part of a Malaysian real estate agent trying to make a fast buck from a potential German investor in Langkawi.

The funny part is how on earth the German filming company thought that a typical Malaysian dressing is a songkok and traditional Punjabi costume Salwar Kameez. Patrick try talking them out of this silly perception but to no avial. He got to wear this costume.

Thank you NIAMAH for being a good host and the amount that we spend on the meal were donated by Patrick without deducting any costs and expenses to the charity drive.

A total rm 24,632 was collected to be shared for the Myanmar and China funds. Tabik the man.

cheers cobber

Sunset at Bali, view from Sengigi Lombok

2008-05-17T02:44:00.000-07:00

This photograph taken from Sengigi Beach
The local fishing boats parked along the beach

A picture that paints a thousand words
The spectacular sight of the sun setting down behind Mt.Agung, Bali

Nearing the end of another perfect day

Enjoy this song " What A Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong.
What's more appropriate to bring down the final curtain .

Sunrise at Lombok

2008-05-15T21:58:00.000-07:00

A memorable moment in time, now, I know why God make this world for me.

I have enjoyed many sunsets , this is the 1 st time I witness a Sunrise.

Photos snapped at Sambelia, East Lombok.

cheers cobber

Congratulations Martin Zamigano

2008-05-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

I got to know Martin at the end of December 2005 when he started on the project to record a music album. He told me that his ambition is to cut an Indian fusion album for Malaysian. His album Kanmani is a mixture contemporary music (R & B, blues, jazz, reggae and joget) with a combination of Malaysian traditional instruments.

After much hard work that took nearly 2 years to complete, the album is officially launched on 1st Nov. 2007.

Martin is based in Hong Kong for the last 14 years, playing his guitar and singing in hotels,clubs and pubs. He is a proud Malaysian from Alor Star, Kedah.

He scarified his time traveling between Hong Kong and Malaysia and I know he worked till early morning doing recording. He spent fair amount of his free time at Fisherman's Wharf and that is how I know him.

On the 3rd of May 2008, I am very proud that Martin's Indian album was awarded the best local Indian album. The event was hosted by AIM ( Anugerah Industri Muzik) Malaysia at Putra World Centre.

Ironically, there is no award given for the best local Indian album category in the past 14 year in AIM events. I believed the award for the best local Chinese album was also offer for the 1st time.

I am glad that the Music Industry recognised the talent of all Malaysian.

Congratulation Martin, time to celebrate and all the best in all your future endeavour.

p.s. Kanmani is available at the Wharf.

cheers cobber

There's a light,a certain kind of light

2008-05-09T02:21:00.000-07:00

sorry, blurred photo, hand must have been shaking

Many of you who turn up last night at Dataran Merdeka must have been very disappointed and thought that the candle vigil for RPK was a non event.

The men in blue turn out in full force and the whole dataran was quiet. The only activity was the bomba men preparing for an exhibition for today. The police cordoned all roads leading to dataran making it impossible for the rakyat to gather to light candles.

A candle was lighted after all by a courageous man with balls of steel (pardon the expression). His passion and determination to light a candle came with a price.

Haris Ibrahim was arrested and lead away to balai polis after some verbal exchanges with a certain high ranking police officer.

Thank God he was not charged,only to be release later. I joined him with many other concern friends at NPC to hear him account his experience.

Now I really know how Peter must have felt when his Lord was lead away by his persecutor, he denied knowing his Lord 3 times when he was asked," Isn't you the one who walk with him"?

While Haris was arrested and being lead away, the high ranking officer told his subordinate to also arrest any of his friends.

At that moment, Jaya and Haris were at the top of the stairs, Old Ben and I, below, and a young lad with a Korean like name, from PJ, some distance to Haris left. They look at us but did not pursued the matter. None of us were holding candles.

I really do not know what I would have answered if the subordinate had question me. Would I be like Peter, deny that I know Haris or have balls of steel like him?

Herd mentality is definitely different from an individual feelings when facing these intimidation.

Truly an encounter that left me quite shaken.

cheers cobber

RPK, are you really ok?

2008-05-07T07:34:00.001-07:00

This morning RPK's wife, Marina Lee went to the prison but RPK refused to see any body including Marina.

The first thought that ran across my mind when I read this is whether our favourite Malaysian son, RPK is really safe and sound.

What is RPK thinking and what is his intention to remain in prison? Why is he refusing to see anyone including his wife?

According to the Officer on duty, RPK has requested the prison official not to allow any one to visit him including family members and lawyers. Marina insisted to see him, but the Officer said he has to respect RPK's request.

The infamous 'black eye' incident is still fresh in my mind. I will not be on ease until he is out on bail.

Puan Marina is with a lawyer, Matthaeus Cheng, to meet up with the Warden and get a letter from RPK to prove that he really requested not to be visited by any body at the moment.

Until I hear the words from the horse's mouth that he is alright , I am assuming the worst.

Take care Sir, you have the rakyat support and God bless you.

Cheers cobber

2008-04-30T06:37:00.001-07:00

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Ringgit vs Mickey Mouse money

The price of Malaysian favourite makan ,roti canai has gone up by 10 cents. I normally pay rm 1.00 and the reason for the increase in price given by my neighbourhood mamak gerai is that price of flour went up by 40 cents a kilo.

Let me take you down memory lane, in 1977, the only open air cafe in my hometown which have the only jude box in town, charged 5 cents for per selected song. I used to play Hotel California twice in a row. By the end of the night,you will properly hear this song repeated over 20 times.

A bowl of fishball mee soup cost 10 cents for small and 15 cents big. A bottle of coke or my usual choice fanta cost 15 cents.

In 1986, I remember paying rm1.80 for a mug of beer and in 1990 rm 12.00 for a jug of beer.
I got pissed drunk with rm 50.00 in my pocket.

The average pay for a fresh graduate in 1985 range from rm 1000- rm 1500. Today the same new graduate take home rm 1500- rm 2000 per month.

The rate of inflation and cost of living in Malaysia had increased tremendously and the increment in layman salary now just don't match. The average spending power diminished and the fact is we are getting poorer and poorer.

The prices of every essential goods needed in our daily life are going up faster than you can imagine. Inevitably, get ready to add another zero to the ringgit in the near future. Expect your standard of living to take a dive.

The government of today need to address this problem urgently, ensure that the economy is strong, healthy and growing. No more wastages of public fund, cut down on corruption, more foreign investments and importantly good governance.

In this great country of ours, we, her children should be able to enjoy the wealth and the bountiful fruits blessed by God.

cheers cobber

Posted by Gus Gan at 5:18 AM 1 comments Links to this post

2008-04-30T06:36:00.001-07:00

Sunday, April 20, 2008

The hottest topic in town

After Black 14 , I believed the most talked about person in Malaysia is non other than Anwar Ibrahim. Every night the topic of who is going to be the next prime minister never failed to be debated.

The majority of the regulars concurred that Badawi cannot hold on to number 1 post in Malaysia for long.The power struggle in UNMO will see either Najib or Ku Li fighting for the coveted position. Najib looks like the underdog, he should challenged Badawi outright but instead waited for durian runtuh. Ku Li seems the better choice to lead UNMO in December.

Now, who get to run the country is a different ball game. Some put their bet on Ku Li but I personally like to see Anwar as the next Prime Minister of Malaysia. 'Gus are you crazy, Anwar is anti Chinese and he cannot be trusted' claimed by many.

Look, the man has spent 6 years of his life staring at 4 corner of the wall, had plenty of time to reflect his life and done honest soul searching. I believed he is a changed man and deserved a chance to prove himself. What he has done in the past is of no importance to me. His future vision for the country get my up most support.

I have attended Anwar's pre and post election ceramahs and the latest Black 14 gathering. I found him to be consistent in wanting to implement a new Malaysian Economic Agenda to help all Malaysians regardless of race. He understands that race based politics and political parties doesn't work anymore.
My eyes went teary when he spoke and stressed about Ketuanan Rakyat as opposed to UNMO's Ketuanan Melayu (no racism meant).

The world is facing an economic slow down. Compared to the current batch of Malaysian elected leaders, Anwar is more experienced and is the best person to see Malaysia thru this bad times. Now if Anwar performances are not up to expectation, just practice the power of our votes.

cheers cobber

Posted by Gus Gan at 8:13 AM 2 comments Links to this post

2008-04-30T06:33:00.001-07:00

Saturday, March 29, 2008

Good Day Cobber

One fine night many months ago, May 07, a cobber asked me to read Malaysia Today and I haven't look back since. Now I spend many hours reading RPK articles, subscribed to Malaysiakini and looked up at Malaysiakita for the latest sopo bloggers posting.

In June 2007, I stopped subscribing to the STAR newspaper. All these years with no alternative news, I am forced but knowingly swallowed all the one sided news that the MSM had forced down my throat.

The day I discovered this alternative news media in the internet, praise God for this new breed of people, now I don't have to tolerate with all the lies, spin stories, bias reporting and mind boggling comments in the papers or television.

I strongly urged the MSM people, please report and disseminate information to the public justly, fair and don't treat us like moron. We had shown we can make up our mind to move mountain and certainly not afraid to use it. Look, I have boycotted you.

So, after much fighting with my son and daughter for hogging the family desk top computer, I decided to get my own personal lap top. I must apologized to my children for scolding them when they spend hours on the net. I accused them as computer addicts, now they are laughing at me. We have now come to a truce and understanding on the amount of time we can spend on computer. I cheated sometime.

Why do I start this blog? I named my blog Cheers Cobber. It simply means cheers to my friends when we lift our drinks in the pub. Cheers to life , friendship and health.

Cheers Cobber will be my diary of events happening in the pub and my daily life.I want to remember and keep track of the many interesting conversations and arguments.The happy days and sad moment. Making new friends, losing friends due to misunderstanding or death itself. There are many hypothetical answers to many questions asked where time will be the determining factor. Hopefully this blog can be the helping hand.

This will be the place where I can rave and rant. I will blog on any matter that I fancy but not necessary in chronological orders.

But the main reason I started this blog is because of some exemplary bloggers that touched my heart and significantly changed my outlook towards life, our society, my political awareness,my vote,importantly, I embraced and believed in Anak Bangsa Malaysia.

I remember the petition to the Agung initiated by People's Parliament,yes, thanks for the chance to be a part of it. Who can forget about the morning walk where we didn't bring umbrellas when the "rain" fall. Thank you Old Ben, Zorro, Can You See It, People's Parliament,Ancient Mariner,Old Blue Eyes,Shanghai Fish, Rocky Bru,The Meesh Experience, many others for the fond and unforgettable experiences.

Thank you Shanghai Fish for helping me to kick start this blog. The bloggers that I know encouraged me to blog and are waiting for my first crack,so here's to you cobbers.I didn't climb on the express train during the election period to start my blog but rather take the choo- choo train now.

Till date, I have the privileges to meet many bloggers of different ethnic background, different political believe, different culture, male and female, layman and YB and the common factors that bond most bloggers together are the quest for truth,justice and fair play.

A group of bloggers have initiated and subscribed to the concept of Barisan Rakyat. I believe in the manifesto presented. The people have the power and right to choose the goverment that they think best represent them.

I would like to evoke everyone to profess this civil society that believed we are of the same colour, same right and dreams, and call Malaysia HOME.

cheers cobber

Posted by Gus Gan at 9:45 AM 3 comments Links to this post

2008-04-30T06:32:00.000-07:00

Monday, March 24, 2008

Hole in the Wall's, errr ....Head

Scenario

Gita being held ransom by a bunch of baddies at a typical americano barber shop.
Dafi came to rescue Gita on a scooter with a briefcase fastened at the rear end.
Dafi entered shop, opened briefcase showing the booty to the baddies.
The bloody bunch went gu gu over the choices of ice cream drumsticks.
Then went ga ga on the phones to sms Cornetto, the code at back of lids to win fabulous prices.
Baddies in ecstasy when win big prices. Gita and Dafi took the chance to escape.
Riding the scooter into sunset and all thanks to Cornetto Royale for distracting the baddies.

End of scene.

I nearly spilled my beer all over the bar when I saw this distasteful advertisement. What's are the advertiser thinking and what kind of message are they trying to portray? I don't think it's cute but rather finding it disturbing.

Certain sensitivity must be taken into account and the recent kidnapping news that splashed the headlines doesn't help either. Many distraught families or individual may not take this kindly.

I am not against freedom of expression but good senses must prevailed. I don't think kidnapping should be taken lightly. The satirical effort in this case is definitely done in poor taste.

The law punished armed kidnappers to death and life imprisonment for non armed. A grave warning as to the severity of this heinous criminal offense.

I thanked God that Gita is free now and Dafi have this great fore sight . Thanks to Cornetto Royale , Malaysian should feel safe, sound and peace in heart.

cheers cobber

Posted by Gus Gan at 10:11 PM 0 comments Links to this post

2008-04-30T06:31:00.000-07:00

From Cheers to....... Tears

Last year 2007 national budget had been kind to beer gushers. When the Finance minister announced that there will be no increased in duties,the beer nation populous celebrates.

But alas, this temporary euphoria have come to an end. This time the bad news is not from the government. I have just received news from my supplier that the prices of keg beer will be increased by the beer manufacturers. No information yet on how much is the intended increase.

All kind of excuses will be given, increased in world market price of hops, cost of transportation, company marketing,etc.... What the heck ,you think I care about your problems! What about me? Increased in rental, electricity, water,food cost and especially staff salaries.

I either pass the increased in cost to my regulars or I absorb it. I might try 50-50. One fact remain, managing a pub is a sunset industry. The publicans are finding hard to keep heads above water and the beer drinkers are finding it harder to drown their sorrows.

Waiting to see the reaction of my regulars when I tell them the bad news. If they gather to form a lynching mob, please spare me lah. I also cari makan leh.

cheers cobber

Posted by Gus Gan at 5:51 AM 2 comments Links to this post

2008-04-30T06:29:00.001-07:00

Saturday, March 22, 2008

Introduction : Hello, I am Augustine Gan

There is this neighbourly watering hole that i am managing for the last 15 years. During all these years,I have seen and know many kinds of people with diverse characters and personalities coming and going.Some became your good friends,some are your steady drinking buddies,unfortunately some individual can be a pain in the ass.

Most of the customers are regulars,4-5 times a week, There are also members who almost never failed to show up every night. My name is Augustine Gan and I am the publican. Let me introduced two regulars who keep me company almost every night.A retired gentlemen Dr.Seng,who will make his appearance at 7.30pm,always take the 3rd seat at the bar,have his drinks and called the night by 10.00pm.Occasionally when in the mood, he stayed longer.Then we have trustingly old Ben, a straight forward guy who always speak from his heart,moderate sense of humour,use the 4 letter word freely as adjective,noun,preposition,in all his sentences.
Dr.Seng and Ben are my cobber.

Sometimes we liked to compare our pub with the US sitcom show CHEERS,a place where everybody knows your name.This is the place we have regarded as home away from home. A place that hold many fond and also sad memories.The younger generation including our children often refer this oasis as old folk home.

Every night there are so much sharing and conversation topics ranging from anything under the Malaysian skies.There are loud talk to stamp authority, strong characters shoving their views down unwilling throats, mindless arguments, aimless dispute, temper flaring out of control ,name calling to mask manhood, profanity that make toes nails curled, making alliance to strengthen ones opinions, saying sorry after a battle, making up to fight another day, losing a friendship forever, never seeing that unforgiving individual again

Ok,ok,I exaggerated,one thing for sure, after all these years we knew each other weaknesses and strength, know when to pull legs and when to stop. I acknowledged in life we never stop learning even when we are old, therefore always take everything with a pinch of salt.Shared all you want but always be prepared to listen, give everyone a chance to speak his mind,concurred or argued the points objectively.

The people that I distant myself are person who engaged a conversation,monopolized on the subject,cut you off in mid air when opinions differ, rudely walking away when you are talking.I believed they are sadist that get cheap gratification from their wayward actions.

In my next posting, I will tell why I started this blog and explain how bloggers influenced and changed my life.

cheers cobber

Posted by Gus Gan at 12:58 AM 4 comments Links to this post