tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58372711739224316692012-01-30T06:09:42.382ZEverything about me!CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.comBlogger1081100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-47486566819958149762011-06-16T12:20:00.002+01:002011-06-16T12:23:09.683+01:00

An article by Steven Schwartz about wisdom in higher education. I "reproduced" from Times Higher Education.---- Not by skills alone ----In their haste to prepare students for a career, universities have lost sight of the true meaning of education, argues Steven Schwartz"I don't think it would have all got me quite so down if just once in a while - just once in a while - there was at least some

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-76952075426915135182011-06-16T12:16:00.003+01:002011-06-16T12:24:53.994+01:00

A short article by John Wilkins about qualification inflation. I "reproduced" from Times Higher Education.---- Qualification Inflation: Time for a Reality Check ----Since the inception of higher education, professions such as law and medicine have been part of the university curriculum. The rest of what were then called "trades" - now known as "economic activities" - were not. Subjects that were

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-11904933667257277942011-03-03T12:47:00.003Z2011-03-03T13:29:05.068Z

"Tuition fees" "6k or 9k" "Only rich kids will go to university""Elitist education""Social mobility" These are some of the common phrases in the recent debate about increasing the tuition fees for universities in the UK. I am in a privilege position, not only that all these changes will not affect me as an international and final-year student, this is also one of the rare opportunity for me to

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-87503990196855118412010-11-13T11:15:00.004Z2010-11-13T12:49:32.992Z

There had been a student protest in Oxford two weeks ago, followed by another massive national-level student protest in London. These protests were initiated after the release of the Browne Review, as well as the subsequent proposal to cut funding for higher education and increment of tuition fees for local students. As an international student, I did not see a need to be passionate about these

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-59501466145944095842010-10-25T10:58:00.005+01:002010-10-25T12:08:58.294+01:00

History is going to become a must-pass subject in SPM. I chose to use the term must-pass instead of compulsory, because history is already compulsory where every student have to sit for the history paper. A must-pass subject, on the other hand, means that a student cannot fail the subject, which otherwise, he or she will be deemed to have fail the entire SPM examination. At the moment, only BM (

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-46827195898050506852010-10-15T18:26:00.002+01:002010-10-15T18:56:21.545+01:00

Tomorrow is the Matriculation Day for the academic term 2010/2011. Matriculation Day is the official event where a new student is officially and ceremonially enrolled to be a member of the university.I arrived in the UK exactly two years ago, a day before the 2008 Michaelmas Term Matriculation. These two years have been an interesting and exceptional journey. There have been many "ups and downs".

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-61331215540464638422010-09-15T13:26:00.003+01:002010-09-15T13:54:08.617+01:00

This is not an article about Internal Security Act. Just a thought about an issue related to this act.There was a recent incident in the United States where a Christian Pastor planned to burn the Koran. I was having a conversation with a Singaporean, an American and a Danish, and we began to dwell into this topic. Then my Singaporean friend said, "I guess this will never happen in Singapore and

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-72539472681527791532010-08-23T23:18:00.000+01:002010-08-23T23:19:20.179+01:00

A compilation of photographs taken at the west end of Glasgow, tracing the historical roots of the Boys' Brigade and following the footsteps of the Founder, Sir William Alexander Smith.

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-564632178976647292010-06-14T00:32:00.003+01:002010-07-06T11:47:40.071+01:00

I cannot believe what I read and hear from the Deputy Prime Minister cum Education Minister about making Mandarin and Tamil compulsory in schools. Such a proposal would mean every Malaysian student would have to learn four languages: Malay, English, Mandarin and Tamil.Personally, I strongly feel the idea is pointless and downright ridiculous. Malaysia, it seems, is aspiring to be a nation of

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-76622883495515723462010-06-10T17:21:00.002+01:002010-06-10T18:17:24.533+01:00

The 10th Malaysia Plan (10MP) was tabled in Parliament today. From reading the report in The Star, two aspects of higher education was mentioned. First, research and development (R&D), and second, the employability of university graduates as well as university's autonomy.In terms of the R&D, first and foremost, a word of congratulation to Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) becoming a research

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-91922782965185654922010-01-18T16:35:00.005Z2010-01-18T17:15:31.526Z

I extend my deepest condolences to the families and friends of the students and teacher killed in the dragon boat tragedy in Penang. I remembered back in 2007 while I was in Singapore, there was a similar tragedy that happened to the Singaporean Dragon Boat Team competing in Cambodia. Again, five young rowers were killed in that incident. However, following that incident, there was a Safety

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-62297174128268222922010-01-14T17:39:00.007Z2010-01-18T18:32:50.436Z

"Better late than never". We are now a fortnight into the new year. Perhaps as the new year excitement evaporates, it would be more appropriate to review some of the events in 2009 that had played a part to the development of the Malaysian education system. To me, 2009 had been a year of mixed-signs without any sense of directionality in the development of Malaysian education system. There were

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-49695137398490779792009-11-12T11:24:00.003Z2009-11-12T12:49:42.836Z

Methodism has played an important part in the development of education, particularly through the role of setting up schools and providing universal education. From the very beginning, John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, has emphasised the importance of education and this was reflected when the matter of education was raised personally by John Wesley at the first Conference of the Wesleyan

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-26778690900151620482009-10-10T13:09:00.011+01:002009-10-27T16:39:47.591Z

There was a recent article in the Times newspaper that argues why people shouldn't go to university. In response to the article, a friend shared the following:"Recently my friend who is mechanical engineer at aircond factory at Bangi earning 3k decided to resign and open a supermarket back at his hometown, i am thinking, hmm... maybe he should work in supermarket after SPM instead..." (by Tim L.)

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-34140232585695388982009-10-08T15:03:00.008+01:002010-07-06T12:01:54.702+01:00

Welcome back to the exciting month of university ranking again. Every year during this period, higher education institutions around the world capture headlines like never before. There will be joy for some institutions, setbacks for others and, worse still, these news and rankings might even cause some academics to lose their jobs. What does this means for the higher education sector?Without

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-60844591717599129532009-09-17T16:10:00.000+01:002009-09-17T17:10:35.578+01:00

One unique feature of the continuous assessment regime in higher education is to evaluate students not solely through their performance in the final exam, but also through other evaluation indicators throughout the course. Typically, the final exam will comprises of 30-70 percent of the final grade, while the remaining percentage are awarded to the students in the form of continuous assessment.

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-43462833433806411102009-09-16T16:22:00.005+01:002009-09-16T17:28:08.685+01:00

Malaysian academics were once again in the news for the wrong reason. Two lecturers were caught plagiarising materials from the Internet to produce a guide book. The punishments for their action include a stern warning that would be included in their service records and they have to return any royalty received for the book. So far, only a politician, who was formerly a professor, has called for

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-89409601438670437152009-09-07T17:49:00.001+01:002009-09-07T17:50:40.812+01:00

The economy is in recession. As part of the stimulus package, tuition fees and research grants were offered to postgraduate students to pursue a PhD or Master's programme locally. Clearly, a strong push factor for graduates to pursue a postgraduate degree, at virtually zero monetary cost. The only cost is probably the opportunity cost of not working in the labour market.On the other hand, among

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-89140780774864629002009-08-20T22:14:00.002+01:002009-08-20T22:16:55.156+01:00

The UK A-levels examination results were released today; the best results in 60 years. 97.5 percent passed the examination while 26.7 percent were awarded an A grade.For many candidates, indeed, it is a day of joy for the hard work they have put in to achieve this result. However, as a consequence of this grade inflation, many of them will eventually realise that the admission for university will

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-72226256764660169452009-08-02T07:18:00.002+01:002009-08-02T07:21:26.211+01:00

An interview with Mark Disney about Malaysian graduates employability.Video courtesy of PopTeeVee.This post is also available in The Malaysian Education Debate

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-3855683647610229522009-08-01T15:30:00.003+01:002009-08-01T15:36:46.306+01:00

Just a catchy phrase from the sharing of Rick Warren. Indeed, an important reminder to me that in every moment, God is part of my life, my work, my family and my all.Happy moments, PRAISE GodDifficult moments, SEEK GodQuiet moments, WORSHIP GodPainful moments, TRUST GodEvery moment, THANK God

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-87016432392513892982009-07-30T18:54:00.003+01:002009-07-30T19:07:31.034+01:00

Malay song. Meaningful lyrics. Excellent guitar performance. The title is "You're my inspiration"This clip brings back many nostalgia memories of 8th College days. It was the unofficial "theme song" for many of 8th College programmes, thanks to Mr Liew. Remembered the song was being played non-stop as the background music throughout the camps, seminars and meetings that we attended. Great

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-24958152369951775952009-07-26T21:07:00.007+01:002009-07-26T21:21:40.488+01:00

The last interview with Yasmin Ahmad, a few days before she passed away. In the interview, she talked about 1Malaysia and race-relations in the country. Indeed, a meaningful farewell message.Video from Youtube, courtesy of The Star Online.

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-26716118785642897982009-07-26T01:54:00.000+01:002009-07-26T01:55:49.605+01:00

Is childcare services related to pre-school education? It seems more than a coincidence that a few days ago, the Minister of Education talked about pre-school and, now, the Deputy Minister of Women, Family and Community is talking about childcare services.Although both issues seem unrelated, but in reality, both politicians are commenting on the exact same issue. Simply, the connection lies in

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-90986112758707595842009-07-24T00:11:00.004+01:002009-08-01T01:29:35.285+01:00

A recent article in the Times Higher Education discuss about university branding. I shall quickly list the advantages as well as criticisms discussed in the article:The advantages:1) Branding is essential for telling the world what a university stands for and values2) Brands exist wherever there is a competition, they help people to choose3) Branding provides a consistent point of contact

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-16396004908430417742009-07-18T02:26:00.002+01:002009-07-24T00:16:25.376+01:00

What are educational aims? What are the characteristics of a good educational aim?According to John Dewey, the aim of education is to enable individuals to continue their education. He argues that an aim relates to results that implies an orderly and ordered sequence of activities. The results must be foreseeable and played a role in giving direction to the activities to reach the end. In other

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-16470400603420594982009-07-12T23:01:00.007+01:002010-07-06T12:33:48.187+01:00

The fiasco about Teaching Science and Mathematics in English (TSME, or in Malay known as PPSMI) is finally over. Although opinions in the country remained divided over this issue, it is highly unlikely that a flip-flop will happen and it is safe to infer that TSME is now a part of history. So what is next for the Malaysian education system?Certainly, in this recent fiasco, it is heartening to see

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-89801711642343209892009-07-09T19:49:00.003+01:002009-07-09T19:55:21.593+01:00

Subsequent to DAP's proposal of introducing flexibility for bottom-up approach in the debate about Teaching of Science and Mathematics in English (TSME or PPSMI), could we try to stretch the argument a little further and relates that to the bigger question about quality in schools and education in Malaysia?Basically what DAP suggests is to allow schools and parents to decide which is the best

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-39232365906658680592009-07-09T19:48:00.001+01:002009-07-09T19:52:59.977+01:00

The long-awaited decision about Teaching of Mathematics and Science in English (TSME) has been announced. After implementing the policy for the past six years, the policy will be revert back to the usage of Malay language and vernacular languages respectively in teaching of Science and Mathematics. I share my observation about this "expected outcome" from several perspectives.Firstly, the U-turn

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-26296363074045326572009-07-08T01:33:00.005+01:002009-07-08T02:17:07.819+01:00

What is wrong having a non-Indian to be the Head of Indian Studies Department in the University of Malaya? Some fundamental questions need to be asked regarding this fiasco:What is the rational that only Indian can be the Head of Indian Studies Department?Are Indians the only people who are scholars of Indian cultural?What about other Indian Studies in other universities, both in Malaysia and

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-30145279215987351342009-06-20T22:48:00.003+01:002009-06-20T23:13:57.435+01:00

It's a strange feeling for an Old Free to be writing about another rival school.It was reported that the last La Salle brother in Malaysia, the Headmaster of St' Xavier Institution has retired, and thus, marked the end of an illustrated era of La Salle influence in Malaysian education system. These La Salle brothers have contributed remarkably to the development of education in the country. Many

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-41240492107890267002009-06-20T01:25:00.003+01:002009-06-20T02:02:36.001+01:00

The Deputy Minister of Education was reported by the media saying that 80% of Malaysians are in favour of making English as a make-pass subject in SPM. In view that this policy has vital implication to the education, the economy and even the Malaysian society, how could a politician made such a irresponsible "guesstimate".How could "prediction" be made based on emails and text messages received?

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-16001658257553250242009-06-10T04:32:00.003+01:002009-06-20T23:17:53.683+01:00

It came a little surprising that the Minister of Education did not know that English is not a "must-pass" subject in SPM (O-levels). I wonder, what about his predecessors? Do they actually know anything about the Malaysian education system? Anyway, I am not interested to question politician's knowledge about education. What I am more interested is the Minister's comments and initiatives.I wish

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-84219566460685860622009-05-28T16:42:00.006+01:002009-07-04T21:45:58.325+01:00

Malaysian Minister of Education announced that students sitting for SPM (O-levels) examination would only be allowed to sit for a maximum 10 subjects. Personally, I felt this is the way forward from the education viewpoint.Why it's good?Firstly, this initiative reduce the highly-intensive rat-race for scoring more A's in examination. Under the current open examination, it seems almost "ridiculous

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-87833601309386556082009-05-21T01:05:00.005+01:002009-06-20T23:21:23.854+01:00

Subsequent to the article about JPA scholarship, I wish to take this opportunity to examine another important element in the discourse - "top scorer".How do we define a top scorer?Is Student X with 17A's smarter or cleverer than Student Y who scored 9A's?The mere comparison based on examination result can be misleading.First, are we assuming all students are given the equal opportunity in terms

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-36846968187882431932009-05-17T14:16:00.006+01:002009-06-20T23:21:32.977+01:00

The debate about JPA scholarship has began to heat up again, with MCA and MIC calling for the scholarship to be awarded based on merit. (For the benefit of non-Malaysian readers, JPA scholarship is the Public Service Department scholarship).On a personal note, I would call for JPA scholarship to be revamp. The following are my reason and how the revamp should be:Don't award scholarship based on

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-45042251979977395202009-05-06T18:22:00.003+01:002009-06-20T23:29:24.885+01:00

My prayer for social justice in Malaysia."Almighty God, who hast created man in thine own image; Grant us grace fearlessly to contend against evil, and to make no peace with oppression; and, that we may reverently use our freedom, help us to employ it in the maintenance of justice among men and nations, to glory of thy holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. "Prayer taken from The Book of

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-30788511938583313942009-05-01T01:22:00.003+01:002009-07-30T18:53:57.300+01:00

Take a break and laugh your head off!

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-20918839474746451072009-03-30T23:19:00.000+01:002009-04-01T23:38:58.282+01:00

I was in London last week. Went to Chinatown. To my surprise, the road signs in this area were bi-lingual. Let us not forget that this is London, the "Capital City of England" and supposedly the heart of English language in the world.This reminded me about all the controversies in Penang, when the State Government proposed to use bi-lingual road signs in certain part of Georgetown. I would not

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-41339321928830636292009-03-01T18:33:00.009Z2009-03-04T22:01:20.287Z

This article was published on February 27, 2009 by The Straits Times in Singapore. A speech given by Lee Kuan Yew exactly 30 years ago.WRITTEN ENGLISHKeep it clear, keep it simpleI WANT to discuss the importance of simple, clear, written English. This is not simple. Dr Goh Keng Swee gives every officer whom he thinks is promising and whose minutes or papers are deficient in clarity, a paperback

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-11126832899504332832009-02-21T22:06:00.006Z2009-06-20T23:24:35.503+01:00

The equation starts with two problems. First, there are 45,000 vacancies in the civil service. Second, only 1.78% and 2.5% of Chinese and Indian are currently in the civil service, whereas, these two ethnic groups accounted for almost 40% of Malaysian population.After these problems were reported in the media, representatives from MCA and MIC, two leading political parties representing Chinese

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-8827960961240052802009-02-14T18:41:00.004Z2009-06-20T23:21:03.622+01:00

Terribly misleading article by The Star Newspaper1) Victoria Institution is NOT the oldest secondary school in Malaysia. How can a school founded in 1893 be older than Penang Free School, which was founded in 1816. Penang Free School is officially recognised as the OLDEST school in Southeast Asia.2) About reverting to the old name, Penang Free School is only known as "Penang Free School". I

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-72312786171842474182009-02-07T16:59:00.004Z2009-06-20T23:22:07.340+01:00

I'm just sharing some thoughts about economics and the current economic crisis, subsequent to reading Joan Robinson's essay entitled "Economics Today", written in 1969.Joan Robinson argued that economics is a branch of theology, where differences were not based on logic but rather on political judgment and moral values, arguments are judged by conclusions and not consistency, terms are used

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-40958975647992178812009-01-28T22:39:00.005Z2009-06-20T23:22:18.250+01:00

Since yesterday, the notion of quality in education has surfaced more than I had ever thought of.What is quality in education?Who determine and control quality?From kindergarten to university, quality of education has always been the core and focus of educational debate. Since three, I had attended kindergarten and progressed all the way to the present level, the doctorate. I could had been

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-7835989852421930862009-01-16T14:46:00.006Z2009-01-16T15:57:49.342Z

It's the campus election season again in Malaysian public universities. Again, this is the "exam" season for many big jokers, whose only reason to continue staying in universities, were to play politics. This once-a-year exam is the 19th of January. Coincidently, the nation is also facing a by-election in Kuala Terengganu this weekend (17th January).Students' election in public universities had

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-31833572576062758392009-01-14T15:58:00.000Z2009-01-16T16:01:57.417Z

Another article co-written for the Malaysian National Higher Education Research Institute.Link

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-40118847604014816302009-01-01T00:44:00.003Z2009-01-01T01:10:49.378Z

2008 was certainly one of the memorable year. Lots of sweet memories as well as bitter experiences that had shaped and cherished the year, all playing the important role in spicing up my life. Indeed, 2008 marked another year of God's abundance providence, guidance and blessings.Among the notable memories and experiences:1) Two become "Wan" - the day when ZL and I made the commitment to love and

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-32137221033930607192008-12-16T21:24:00.006Z2009-07-09T19:53:29.401+01:00

There has been much debate about teaching of Science and Mathematics in English. The Ministry of Education has been contemplating whether to revert back the teaching to Malay (for National schools) and the respective mother tongue (for Chinese and Tamil schools) or continue to use English as the medium of instruction for these two subjects.The Year Six examination (UPSR) 2008 is the first cohort

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-50959615596893110792008-11-24T18:02:00.007Z2008-11-24T22:01:00.085Z

"The advancement of Christ's Kingdom among Boys and the promotion of habits of Reverence, Discipline, Self-Respect, and all that tends towards a true Christian Manliness." This is the original BB Object designed by the founder, Sir William Alexander Smith in 1883 (read First for Boys by McFarlan).Ten years later, in 1893, the word "Obedience" was added into the BB Object. This is also the version

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-37125389973563899662008-11-23T17:16:00.003Z2008-11-23T17:48:20.421Z

Brain Drain is a common phenomenon where the precious resource of human capital flows from a developing to a developed economy. Brain Gain is the opposite phenomenon where the human capital return to the source economy.After reading a statement about Brain Gain project in Malaysia to attract the country's academics from overseas to return, I could not help but thought of another term called "

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-716508674762638862008-11-19T00:55:00.006Z2009-06-20T23:19:22.088+01:00

Just some thoughts about the latest crisis regarding the appointment of Vice-Chancellor in the University of Malaya (UM).1) TransparencyI would say, I don't even know who is on the search committee and how many people are there. I am, and I think the former VC, should also not be too surprise that there isn't a criteria for selection. After all, before her appointment, the only criteria mentioned

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-26702540405322294662008-11-11T21:50:00.002Z2008-11-11T22:09:29.038Z

Philosophy. An important field of study. A challenging one indeed.I have the first taste of it with KM (soon to be Dr KM) but didn't quite like it. Was adviced by several other "influential" people in my intellectual life to give it a try or even to seriously put more thoughts into it. But the most I have gone so far was to grab a couple of books and read not more than half of it.Finally,

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-9087527787142042022008-10-23T14:33:00.002+01:002008-10-23T14:45:27.183+01:00

It has been such a painful delay. It really puts my perseverance to the ultimate test. I guess God just wants to test me out and prepared me for the three years to come.Reflecting back, to be able to finally arrive in Oxford is another big manifestation of God's miracle. I would now think that if getting an offer for doctoral studies and fellowship to finance the three years was remarkable

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-10651391971526842952008-10-21T14:51:00.001+01:002009-06-20T23:22:56.935+01:00

My final piece of work as a Research Officer. I guess I'm going miss the excitement of preparing these fortnightly articles.EnjoyMagna Charta Universitatum

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-9761062328444247112008-10-11T11:47:00.004+01:002008-10-11T12:04:40.293+01:00

Taking a glimpse of the advertisements in the newspaper and around the billboards and banners on the streets, one could surely find some tertiary education institutions publicise their institutions and the courses that they have to offer. Adding to that, road-shows by these educational institutions are also becoming a norm to attract students.I, for one, felt that these publicity activities might

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-9955316350211113172008-10-01T14:25:00.002+01:002008-10-01T14:43:53.978+01:00

It has been a miraculous journey since November 2007, beginning with me receiving an unconditional offer from a world-class university to pursue doctoral studies. Next came an unexpected opportunity to work in the area that I intend to pursue one month later. Who can ask for a better foundational preparation. Following that, the miracle continued with the unplanned and unanticipated offer of a

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-84424221081075189202008-10-01T13:48:00.000+01:002008-10-01T14:57:50.929+01:00

Another 2-part series about harmonisation of higher education in various regions around the world as well as specifically about Southeast Asia.Part OnePart Two

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-59433201974574633112008-09-08T07:35:00.005+01:002009-06-20T23:20:09.500+01:00

THE JOYUniversiti Sains Malaysia (USM) was awarded the status of the first APEX university in Malaysia. Congratulations to USM! There were certainly a sense of joy in me as I have just received the fellowship from USM to pursue a doctoral studies in UK. After all, who is not happy to be associated with the institution that were targetted to implement the accelerated programme for excellence,

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-11362306110299838482008-08-29T03:16:00.004+01:002008-08-29T04:40:30.897+01:00

In awaiting the announcement by the Prime Minister of Malaysia this afternoon regarding the selection of the university to be placed under the Accelerated Programme for Excellence (APEX), let us ponder upon some of the pointers highlighted by the eminent Asian scholar, Professor Wang Gungwu, about world-class universities at a recent international conference. "World-class universities need to be

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-81153345197107633922008-08-29T02:54:00.004+01:002008-08-29T03:19:30.943+01:00

Prof. Dr. Hans van Ginkel, a renowned academia leader, spoke briefly about the differences of debate and dialogue in one of the conference that I attended recently.In debate, we argue to win and we have to speak to be victorious.In dialogue, it is the discourse of understanding and listening.For a dialogue to take place, the following elements must be present:knowledgerespectunderstandingunity in

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-47330457221192095792008-08-14T01:26:00.003+01:002008-10-01T14:47:30.521+01:00

Several Malaysian universities are vying for the prestigious APEX University Status. I have recently written a series of articles about Global University Model by first looking at the characteristics of a world-class university and secondly to look at the performance of universities in the Asia Pacific.I further discussed the case of Singapore and Hong Kong in the third part as well as China and

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-27095063289540321442008-07-22T04:23:00.004+01:002008-07-22T07:48:42.792+01:00

Sixteen years had past since girls were first accepted into the family of Boys' Brigade. The initial idea of starting the Girls' Wing was a noble idea of optimising the limited resources of churches that could not afford to have both Boys' Brigade and Girls' Brigade concurrently and yet not depriving girls from receiving the opportunity to be trained physically, mentally, socially and

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-78168817462047756012008-07-16T08:15:00.004+01:002008-07-16T08:40:36.297+01:00

I attended the Memorial Service of an old officer from 1st Penang, Mr Cheam Hock Seang. Though I do not know him personally, but the feeling of paying the last respect to someone who has served in the Brigade had driven me to the service.The next day, the more shocking news came. A former officer from my former company, aged only 6 years more senior than myself, was called home by God. Mr Leow

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-4450708066022869252008-07-11T02:39:00.003+01:002009-06-20T23:24:12.665+01:00

This is just one small little question that I could not understand. I was watching the news about the request to debate about motion of no confidence for the Prime Minister. The Opposition head informed the press that the request has been submitted to the Office of the Parliamentary Speaker.Here comes the irony. When the Speaker was asked whether will the request be accepted or rejected, he

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-90294202562721551902008-07-02T01:59:00.007+01:002009-06-20T23:25:06.255+01:00

Opening of franchised cafe in public universities seem to be such a big issue. The Deputy Minister of Higher Education has to made statement on such important issue.I recalled that more than a decade ago, University of Malaya (UM) was supposed to have a MerryBrown restaurant at the Law Faculty building. Due to students' protest (I doubt they were the majority), the project was called off and the

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-23190019057923546612008-06-28T14:14:00.007+01:002009-06-20T23:28:04.343+01:00

This morning, I woke up half-awake and was about to start reading The Star newspaper (28 June 2008), saw an interesting picture that immediately got me fully-awake. The picture showing someone whom I have personally met few years back. Without hesitation, I turned to page 18 of the local news for the full coverage.This piece of news was reported as if it is a sad piece of news. However, in my

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-21442235643564249252008-05-28T02:01:00.003+01:002008-07-16T08:49:01.979+01:00

Another three-part series about the latest happenings in regards to higher education in Middle East. The first two parts discussed the progress of various countries in the region with the final part focusing on the implications to Malaysia.Part OnePart TwoPart ThreePlease feel free to drop your comments as well as suggestions of topics that are interesting in the higher education sphere.

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-65372044165193301762008-05-07T03:04:00.005+01:002009-06-20T23:26:52.219+01:00

I was reading about the research findings analysing the coverage and tendency of media during the recent General Election in Malaysia (here's the report). Research was carried out by a 4-member team from a public university.Personally, I felt the topic was an interesting one and therefore went to search for the entire research report. The data collected was even more astonishing, with plenty of

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-35762776242377012962008-04-09T04:32:00.004+01:002008-07-16T10:00:48.850+01:00

A three-part series on regionalism in higher education. The articles tried to illustrate how different forms of regionalism has created different impacts to higher education sector.Part OnePart TwoPart ThreeThere again, feel free to voice your comments and feedbacks.

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-89896447776925786052008-01-27T09:32:00.002Z2008-03-10T08:58:48.273Z

Global Updates from National Higher Education Research Institute. My first piece of writing in this new job.This is a 4-part series, which will be release every fortnight, that focus on China's higher education and its' relations to Malaysia.Part OnePart Two Part Three Part FourFeel free to drop any feedbacks and/or comments.

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-67781613633621785312008-01-22T07:38:00.002Z2009-06-20T23:28:36.295+01:00

My first working trip in my new job, is surprisingly relaxed and enjoyable. Took a plane from Penang to KL and had the whole Sunday evening to myself, spending the entire night catching with a close friend that I have not met for couple of months.The job assignment was as expected, a rapporteur. This is one of the most interesting rapporteuring experience for a very simple reason - strong

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-65313684036877121472007-12-31T16:00:00.000Z2008-01-09T09:32:49.949Z

Year 2008 marks my return to Penang after being away for more than 5 years. To add to the excitement of it, I have finally gotten a job that I am passionate and rewarding in Penang. That is really hard to come by.Looking ahead this year with much enthusiasm. Many more exciting events are awaiting for me. I am certain 2008 will be a life-changing year, just by looking at the many important events

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-44824473717154265572007-11-15T17:05:00.001Z2009-06-20T23:27:47.080+01:00

Time really flies! I'm into the final 2 weeks of the Master program in NUS. The past one month had been one of the craziest month for the past 16 months of graduate studies.Was this stint in NUS worthwhile? Have I made the right decision to pursue this Master, at the cost of giving up two jobs - a glamorous one and a high-paying one?Well, as I reflect on the decision to give up the jobs, I do not

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-61672459491961617502007-10-19T10:05:00.000+01:002007-10-19T10:29:41.577+01:00

It has been a busy and stressful month. Lots of important things need to be done while juggling many equally important decisions to made. At the same time, I am also excited by the many major things happening soon.I'm coming to another junction in life. Faced with many uncertainty and tough decisions. There are many roads lie ahead of me; some I prefer to travel, some I love to travel, some I

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-53035780528676926962007-10-15T14:27:00.000+01:002007-10-15T14:49:08.300+01:00

I first heard about home schooling about 5 years ago. Someone related to me began home schooling and I have the privilege to tutor him for a few months.Home schooling is ideally the alternative schooling whereby a parent (usually the mother) will stays at home and tutor the child. The materials used were usually sourced from United States and some from Australia. The advantage of home schooling

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-45360671676769275782007-09-16T17:05:00.000+01:002007-09-16T17:30:04.011+01:00

"Brain Drain" has been one of the issues debated where development is concern. To my understanding, it is the situation whereby talents in developing countries are attracted to migrate and work in developed countries. This migration of talent is therefore known as "brain drain" (I might be wrong with this definition).How do we measure "brain drain"?I did a search on the articles regarding this

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-36740459838777077842007-09-02T18:15:00.000+01:002007-09-02T18:53:57.983+01:00

Won't you Lord, take a look at our handsEverything we have, we used it for Your planWon't you Lord, take a look at our heartsMold it, refine it and set us apartWe will run to the altar and catch the fireTo stand in the gap between the living and the deathGive us a heart of compassionFor the world without a visionWe will make a differenceBringing hope to our landI first heard this song, "Make a

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-39008829168941631752007-08-30T17:57:00.001+01:002009-06-20T23:29:08.057+01:00

Fifty years ago, this very day, Malaya gained its independence from the British empire. Being a Malaysian, it was indeed a day to be proud of the achievements that this 50-year old country had achieved.Taking a few moments this very minute to ponder the meaning of Merdeka, I wish to pen several of my thoughts about the independence of my beloved country.What is patriotism? I guess I could call

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-24158951982026361492007-08-22T14:15:00.000+01:002007-08-30T17:57:45.975+01:00

Economics, as a discipline, became 'scientific' over the quarter-century, but I put the word in inverted commas and I deliberately pronounce it pejoratively here. As it is practised in the 1980s, economics is a 'science' without ultimate purpose or meaning. It has allowed itself to become captive of the technical tools that it employs without keeping track of just what it is the tools are used

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-37509461185488353032007-08-08T06:19:00.002+01:002009-06-20T23:35:26.293+01:00

Reflecting on Malaysia's 50th year of independence, I could not but felt obligated to share my racial experiences growing up in this multi-ethnic country.I attended the "national" primary and secondary school. It was so-called "national" because it was suppose to be schools catering for all Malaysians regardless of ethnicity. The 13 years of education in multi-ethnic schools have created the "

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-79724524354695588922007-08-08T04:51:00.002+01:002009-06-20T23:30:46.254+01:00

I was with the 8th China Synergy Programme, visiting Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Xian, Beijing, Hangzhou and Shanghai from June 30 until July 16, 2007.The trip was an eye-opening in many ways. Firstly, I have truly experience the rapid growing metropolitan of Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai. Without doubt, the public transportation of Hong Kong was well-managed and user-friendly, way beyond my

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-42305989581744422702007-06-15T09:49:00.000+01:002007-08-20T13:40:56.941+01:00

As pointed out in Schools and Nation-building, the primary education in Malaysia is by nature racially segregated, which comprised of national, vernacular Chinese and Tamil schools.The segregated primary education was a compromise negotiated among the ethnic groups when Malaya gained its independence in 1957. After 50 years of independence, the national schools had became the point of criticism

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-18555453000759834112007-06-14T05:54:00.000+01:002007-08-20T13:41:26.294+01:00

Racial integration among university graduates is said to be an alarming concern of racial harmony in Malaysia. It was indeed true that the segregation of students according to ethnic groups has been happening in public and private universities. The Minister of Higher Education has also highlighted the issue when he spoke about the "Khidmat Masyarakat" (Community Service) programme.I would viewed

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-33073849991739794112007-05-24T05:46:00.000+01:002008-12-09T15:49:15.477Z

Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak or better known as KOMTAR, is the unique symbol of Penang. The majestic building is the tallest building in Penang, which housed the Chief Minister's office and other government departments. KOMTAR was also one of the earliest shopping complex in the state and currently still remains as the hub of public transportation in the island-state.KOMTAR was built in the mid-80s

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-73990442277381325952007-04-10T16:32:00.001+01:002009-06-20T23:32:11.950+01:00

I was reading "Servicing the Foreign Service" with joy and hope for Malaysian Foreign Service.Finally, the ministry is able to recruit its own Foreign Service officers instead of selecting from the pool of Administrative and Diplomatic Officers (PTDs). I view this step as a positive development in rebuilding the Malaysian Foreign Service.This direct recruitment exercise is certain to solve the

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-78630468896194791442007-04-01T15:41:00.000+01:002008-12-09T15:49:16.260Z

I had the honour of being selected to serve Malaysia through civil service's elite scheme known as the Administrative and Diplomatic Service. It was a highly sought-after service where every aspiring bureaucrats would want to be in. I remembered going through 3 stages of interviews and assessment before being appointed. Following that, I attended a 2-week induction course. Throughout the course,

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-90876619784926437132007-03-31T17:13:00.000+01:002008-12-09T15:49:16.419Z

The Reluctant Politician by Ooi Kee Beng gave an interesting overview on the biography of Tun Dr Ismail and the Malaya/Malaysia's situation from 1950s to 1970s. The book also gave several exciting and surprising insights into some of Malaysia's policy. However, the most striking features of the book was Tun's opinion on the New Economic Policy (NEP) and the Special Position of Malays.Tun Dr

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-47379925202681085912007-03-08T17:10:00.000Z2007-03-08T17:50:19.457Z

I have began to ask myself this question since I started to pursue a Master degree in economics. The economics that I am dealing with at the moment seems to be stranger to me. Everything is about theory and mathematics!Where is the economics that I used to learn and enjoy? Where is the human touch?This reminded me of what Prof Tey used to tell me, "Don't bother so much about theory, it's the

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-41028697385061260372007-02-16T08:05:00.000Z2008-12-09T15:49:16.786Z

I was back in Penang for the holiday and travelled in a public bus for the first time since the revamp of the public transportation on the island.It was really a scary and not too pleasant journey. The bus service in Singapore and Penang totally different and almost to an incomparable extent. There were so many aspects that could be improved, even without spending millions.The most basic of all

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-37827673656060565822007-02-09T16:15:00.000Z2007-04-01T15:41:10.920+01:00

The shock of seeing someone passed away in front of your eyes seems to have affected me more than I expected. I was still in a paranoid state of fearing being alone.The question the counsellor asked was, "Does this problem of loneliness already existed?" If yes, perhaps the shock of such incident just escalated that feeling. I think perhaps he was right on this as I indeed felt lonely in

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-81737398482296000072007-02-07T20:26:00.001Z2009-06-20T23:31:25.400+01:00

Tonight, everything around the house (I rented a room) was quiet. I came back after dinner thinking no one is at home. I closed the door in my room and waited for ZL to come online. Sadly, she has to stayed back to finish off her assignment in office.Then I was engaging in some online discussion with a friend from BB. Things were getting pretty bored as I was doing some reading for tomorrow's

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-22244609316527956662007-01-18T19:12:00.000Z2008-12-09T15:49:16.998Z

What is your opinion regarding the repeal of rent control towards Georgetown?Has the development of Georgetown became better or worst since year 2000?Thank you all for the comments shared.

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-40294711383403149452007-01-10T14:15:00.001Z2008-12-09T15:49:17.544Z

It was interesting to note the study by American Public Transportation Association that swapping a second car with public transport could save up to US$6,200 per year. This certainly gives encouragement and reason for government to further improve the public transportation system.From my family's experience in Penang, my dad could travel to work within 30 minutes with public bus. This was before

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-66513181315055678352007-01-04T08:55:00.000Z2008-12-09T15:49:17.941Z

Many non-Penang drivers commented that driving in Penang was a nightmare. However, Penangites encounter a worse nightmare on a daily basis - that is parking!There are several major problems related to parking in Penang. Firstly, the city faced problem with the lack of parking space. Penang's vehicle registration is the third fastest in Malaysia, only slower than Klang Valley and Johor. However,

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-35745508864462416802006-12-12T09:20:00.000Z2008-12-09T15:49:18.122Z

I received the latest copy of BBM Point System for Application to Local Universities. It was really a disgrace to see the terribly low standard of points given for proficiency and achievement category. The maximum (5) points is given for the 4th proficiency award. However, the Boys' Brigade Award Scheme has a total of 21 proficiency awards. This means that a boy could easily gained the maximum

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-6620267339623773552006-12-08T05:25:00.000Z2007-08-20T13:44:01.313+01:00

The Chief Minister of Penang urged more Penangites to go around on a bicycle, while attending a campaign to promote bicycle riding. (The Star reports).No doubt the intention to encourage people to cycle is indeed beneficial for the individuals as well as the society as a whole. It will certainly improve the wellness of an individual and promote healthy living. On top of that, cycling will

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-11738302562792282362006-12-07T06:16:00.001Z2008-08-13T05:45:57.816+01:00

I was reading an article by Stephanie Phang (Bloomberg) about Malaysian graduates and English language problem. Before you continue, please forgive the mistakes and errors in my language as I was also a Malaysian local graduates.After graduating from UM, I have a short stint working in the government sector before quitting my job to pursue further education abroad. I have been to several job

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-78803084146286122082006-11-22T06:28:00.000Z2006-11-22T16:14:10.815Z

I came across this interesting video about public transportation - highlighting the problems as well as suggesting some solutions. Very interesting video to reflect the direction of which our public transport system is heading!Moving Forward (Part 1, 2 & 3) - courtesy of Paul Barterhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzwH9pme-J8&mode=related&search=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsRRXfa9-uo&mode=

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-35497900640166187032006-11-18T07:25:00.000Z2006-11-18T08:05:56.479Z

On November 16, 2006, the world bid farewell to one of its most prominent economic scholar and Nobel laureate, Milton Friedman - the grandmaster of free-market economic theory.To me, this name had been mentioned so frequently for the past one month. During my EC5102 Macroeconomics Theory module a fortnight ago, I was refreshed again with his "Permanent Income Hypothesis". Then last week, I

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5837271173922431669.post-28198598981137884402006-11-06T17:56:00.000Z2007-03-31T18:06:02.446+01:00

Two days ago, a friend asked me how could a BB company with Girls' Wing (GW) co-exist together in a church with a GB company. The question caught me by surprise.My first respond was, "Well, GB and GW cater for different types of girls. The more adventurous will be interested in GW and the more girlish will opted for GB. Furthermore, BB has a school platoon but GB did not enter the school.

CDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15004540221829419597noreply@blogger.com0