Choral Speaking (Hulu Selangor District Level) Competition 2011 :”Snow White & The Seven Dwarves” Runs To 2nd Placing!

Yeay! After merely a week of training and coaching, my school’s Choral Speaking Team managed to secure 2nd placing in the Hulu Selangor District Level of Choral Speaking Competition! As the writer of the script and the supervisor of Choral Speaking, I am fully immersed with satisfaction and at the same time, felt relieved. It feels good when you can contribute something to the school and put your school in the education map and acknowledge to others that your school is a force to be reckoned with!

The venue was at SK Kuala Kubu Bharu 2 and the journey from Serendah took around 30 minutes to get to the heart of Kuala Kubu Town. Kuala Kubu Bharu has always been regarded as the Hulu Selangor district’s focal point. Anyway, we arrived there around 8.00 A.M. To my amusement and bewilderment, the flow of the event was horrendous! Sorry to say and I didn’t mean to disgrace anyone (if so happen that any teachers of the school in question is reading this; well this is MY OWN SPACE; so I can pretty much write what I feel is right!) but the MC for the day was a wrong choice! I didn’t know whether she’s a teacher of that school or she was forced to become MC but there were TOO MANY FLAWS to be ignored!

First, the MC wrongly pronounced the name of the PPD officer; and without apologizing, simply carry out the flow of the event as if it was an informal internal affair! Effortlessly, she continued her narrating as if like she was reading out some scripted wordings! And lastly; guess what???! She MISTAKENLY pronounced my school as the 3rd place (seconnd runner-up!) up until all my pupils had received their plaques!!! I was a bit down and a little bit disturbed because I know that the only eligible competitor for my school was the winner; which was SK Kuala Kubu Bharu 2 (the host, anyway); so to be beaten by other forgettable rendition is VERY ALARMING!

And voila! She suddenly then :

“Eh..Eh..Eh, silap! The runner up is supposed to be SK Serendah!”

I was like “WHAT IS GOING ON?” and spontaneously I was half-lamenting-and-half-shrugging and said out “ASTAGHFIRULLAHAL A’ZIM!” Man, the management is totally rot, sorry to say!

Anyway, my school was the first to perform and you know, judges were quite dilly-dallying at that moment. But still, they did great job and the voice projection was audible! The hysterical cackle by The Old Woman was something as a punchline. The winner dwell with theme of  ”1 Malaysia” and also uniformity. I guess with that, they had the plus point in comparison to us with fable and fairy tale. Still, the motto of “ain’t a quitter and a fighter” injected spirits in us. Of course, that doesn’t mean you are a good teacher if your team wins. Sometimes political elements, sometimes technical elements and sometimes simply luck.

I still can’t believe that I am now a teacher coaching and bringing the kids to represent a school when I myself used to be the one who entered all these kind of events (story-telling, elocution, debate). And I certainly used my ‘Snow White & The Seven Dwarves’ rendition when I was in Year 6 for my now-pupils in SK Serendah! Time flies fast. Indeed, I am honoured and glad that I choose this path. Alhamdulillah (,”)

** NOTIFICATION UPDATES : Seems like this entry has ignite unintended uproar to the party where this event has been taking place. Rumour has it that a ‘loyal scout’ from PPD Hulu Selangor stumbled into this entry and reported to the party in question. Although the entry is not a personal attack but more of a reflection from a participant, the other party felt the otherwise and thus decide to lash back.

1. In terms of the stating out of school’s name – it’s NOT to smear the school’s name. Just to mention that the venue was there. But seemed that the Head thought I wanted to smear the school’s name. I don’t. And I don’t need to apologize for that.
2. The second one, the statement “Of course, that doesn’t mean you are a good teacher if your team wins. Sometimes political elements, sometimes technical elements and sometimes simply luck.” DOES NOT REFER TO THE TEACHERS WHO TRAINED THE SCHOOL! It refers to my own school for able to nail the 2nd place although we were greenhorns and novices. Simply because we obtained No.2 outta 4 contestants don’t mean we were good. Unfortunately, the teacher was insulted and took it personal. This I need to explain.
3. For the comments I made to the MC, it’s not personal retaliation. But I don’t take back and I hope she will take it positively. It’s NOT a personal remark. But for the invitees of that day, we felt we were not welcomed as we were supposed to and the glitches made were too many to be ignored.

As such, I hope the explanation will clear the smoke. Not intended for personal remarks, but mere reflection of participant. But I don’t own apologies to no one; in fact they own us one. But for me, it’s just another hanky-panky life when one affiliates in Government society. We are cool, I guess. (,”)

Malaysia Truly Asia : Hinduism Emblem Peekaboo @ Batu Caves. Malay Oasis @ Kampung Baru. Urban Leisure @ Pavillion, KL Golden Triangle.

Malaysia is truly Asia. Although I have friends from my high school days who now have become somewhat “politically-active-but-lack-in-intelligence-but-yet-want-to-claim-themselves-as-Malaysians by birth” making fun of the tag line (a disgrace being a Malaysian, right? I know!), I have no qualm on embracing the tag line and proudly say that my Malaysia is a truly Asia. Why? Because you can find almost all ethnicities commonly found in Asia call Malaysia as their homes. Ponder and think (and yet, people are not being grateful for what their forefathers had done for them! Geez!).

Batu Caves has always invites my curiosity. I’ve always see it from afar but never ever gone it. Perhaps, it’s due to the religion taboos and perhaps because there is simply no opportunity. So, on last Sunday I decided to have a peekaboo on the Hindu sacred place. Batu Caves is a limestone hill which houses several caves in it. A high staircase was built in 1891 and has become a ritual passage for Hindus to climb the hill. The shrine is dedicated to Lord Murugan and boasts the tallest golden-coloured statue of Lord Murugan in the world.

The stalactites in the Cave were so mesmerizing! God’s Creations are breathtaking and timeless even though it takes thousands years to form! Subhanallah! Besides that, we also got to see a so-called sacred-woman who has said to isolate herself and seldom went out to the public. Her hair was so long that she had to bend it three into three layers!

For me, it was a great cultural-diversifying experience and it’s enthralling to see how men carved the stair into the cave. Besides, it is already near 100 years old and a Malaysian historical artefact to be treasured. Of course initially, I have inkling of doubt because of religion taboo but I always know that my religion, Islam is a very tolerable religion. The idea is to appreciate other people’s culture, not to idolize the deities. Islam has never been a rigid religion. It only highlights lines and boundaries so that Moslems will not be led astray from the Right Path. If the intention is clear and the act does not contradict of religion, it should be alright. No question arisen. (,”)

After that, had luncheon at Kampung Baru, a popular Malay residence at the heart of Kuala Lumpur- which is a haven for town people who miss authentic Malay cuisines in the midst of Kuala Lumpur. After that, went to Pavillion and karaoke-ing at Red Box. It was nice to be back at the Golden Triangle after quite sometime.

On whole, great “Cuti-Cuti Malaysia”. Malaysia is truly Asia.

The Demise Of Old Hollywood Sex Siren : Dame Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor.

As a Tinseltown aficionado, Hollywood fanatic and movies freak, everything that happened in the circulation attract me. The impeccable Hollywood diva, Elizabeth Taylor is known all over the world as the actress who was highly-paid for her role in “Cleopatra”. The role, which destined her fate with her soon-to-be fifth and sixth husband (they divorced and remarried) Richard Burton, was the role that catapulted her as a legendary Hollywood icon; both sex symbol and alluring siren. Her fateful death recently on March 23, 2011 at the age of 79 years old at the popular Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre ended the legacy of a respectable Hollywood actress.

Miss Taylor was born in London by American parents. Therefore, she hold dual-citizenship for both English and American. At the age of 12 years old, Miss Taylor grabbed the attention of film producers and studios when she nailed the part of a girl who trained her horse to win the Grand National competition. The movie “National Velvet” (produced by Metro-Goldwyn Mayor) cemented Miss Taylor as a marketable child actor.

She made an easy transition from a child star to an adult star, unlike other unfortunate child stars. At that time, actors’ lives were controlled by the big studios and companies. Their privacy were restricted and contract-stated. Actors were forced to do films they reluctant to do and lethargic was a familiar lamentation when one talked about Hollywood actors/actresses in this era. In 1960, she signed to do “Cleopatra” with 20th Century Fox; making her as the highest paid actress in that time. She also received an extra consolation along the film production- she was romantically involved with Richard Burton, who played Mark Anthony in the film. The chemistry was so fiery that sparks were flying although both were legitimately involved with respective spouses.

Throughout her career, Miss Taylor has won two Academy Awards as Best Actress; from “BUtterfield 8″ (1960) and “Who’s Afraid Of Virginia Woolf?” (1966). She was also known for her infamous 8 times marriages and also eccentric friendship with the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson.

She left the legacy and the indisputable aura of a Hollywood diva. Elizabeth Taylor, a glamorous sex siren.

Parental Seafood Sanctuary @ Bagan Lalang, Sepang Gold Coast. Witnessing 18-Years-Time Super Perigee ‘Supermoon’!

Alhamdulillah! The Umrah entourage sponsored by Abang Jie has already touched the land of Malaysia after 2 weeks journey spent in the Holy Land of Makkah. Ayah & Mak are safe and sound and in the greatest pink of health, so far. They arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Friday afternoon and were welcomed by us via two cars; of course my parents’s VIOS and my own Dazzling Red MyVi a.k.a Dagny!

Since we don’t really ever give them a treat as Ayah has this weird philosophy of tending not to like to “burden-the-children-with-shenanigan-and-so-hindering-plans-to-lavish-them-with-treats”, Kakak and I decided to let them have a taste of Bagan Lalang’s famous seafood on Saturday night. Besides, Abang Zam’s birthday is scheduled to be on the Sunday; so might as well just make it like a familial affair and a birthday treat as well! As usual initially, Ayah was giving his all-of-the-world excuses to make the plan seemed impossible but somehow we managed to coax him up; and off we went to Bagan Lalang at Sepang Gold Coast!

For both my parents who never visit Sepang Gold Coast; the journey seemed like taking forever! Well, yes; admittedly the journey is not that near but I guess the reward is worthwhile to be savored later on. Mak was so bewildered that we passed through the Sepang town (at this juncture, she knew that the place she was about to go is actually not that near!) and then Sungai Pelek and then of course, Sepang Gold Coast! As usual, we went to the Restaurant Bayu Malam and ordered our usual favourites : deep-fried calamari, soya sauce-cooked cockles and mini oysters, chili-cooked prawns, roasted fishes, “Pepahat” ( I don’t know what it is called in English!), “Otak-Otak” and many more! And the verdict, my parents were so full and immensely enjoyed the experience. Mission accomplished!

Arrived home around 12.00 midnight and I’ve the experience of witnessing the phenomenon of Supermoon; where the moon (Super Perigee) was said to make its closest approach to the Earth in the period of 18 years. Hence, it is said that the Supermoon exhibits the BIGGEST full moon ever in years! Tried to capture it via my merely 8 Pixels CoolPix Nikon- obviously not that clear but yes, visible! An astronomical experience I cherished. I even had Mak to sky-gazing with me at the outside part of Kakak’s house- well, Mak always showed interest in what I’ve to say and keen to see the ‘within-18 years-experience’ phenomenon. Always a dearie one, she is (,”).

Taking with my own lense. From the compound of Putrajaya.

The moon behind the murky morning clouds at 6. A.M.

On whole, it was a great Saturday. Actually, I couldn’t sleep tonight and it’s already 5.04 A.M. in the morning (Sunday). Well, perhaps it’s because of the caffeine confined in the Nescafe I drank at Bagan Lalang or perhaps the chill of thinking about works awaiting me as soon as the school is reopens (coaching and organizing the flow of Choral Speaking!); and yeah, to kill the ‘awaken time’, I’ve marked all the exam papers for my 4 Brilliant, 4 Flexible & 5 Gallant. Only the absence of calculator hindering the full-marking. Above all, Alhamdulillah for all the wonderful time and blesses. Alhamdulillah, that’s all I can say. (,”)

The Malay Bloodlines Chronicles : Majestic “Minangkabau” Regalia @ Seri Menanti Old Palace. Spirits of Northern Kingdom @ “Hikayat Merong Mahawangsa.”

Yipee! The school holiday is officially commences. For merely a week, all school activities are put on halt; except if one is teaching Year 6 pupils- extra classes are geared up as usual *sigh*. As for me, I am spending most of the holidays in Putrajaya and of course once a while, do little bit of peekaboo to Serendah, Hulu Selangor. Like I said before, I have make promises to make myself amenable for traveling rendezvouses throughout this year, 2011; albeit locally or abroad. So, this time around, decided to visit the old-palace-turned-into-museum “Istana Seri Menanti” at Negeri Sembilan!

Negeri Sembilan or loosely known as The Nine States is famous for its Minangkabau and Pagar Ruyung ancestral lineages which mainly encompass its cultural and regal heritages. I have always hear about the famous Seri Menanti Palace which is the emblem of Negeri Sembilan’s regal artistry. The en route to Seri Menanti from Kuala Lumpur is very clear-cut. Take the Balakong/Sungai Long highway and then proceed to LEKAS highway. By using LEKAS, one can reach Kuala Pilah exit within merely 30 minutes and then proceed to Seri Menanti which is clearly exhibited by the signboards. Easy and breezy. (,”)

My first impression of the Royal Town is that it is idyllic, serene and clean. Seri Menanti seems to be an epitome of what a ‘kampung’ (country-side/village) should have looked like! It is surrounded by hills; possibly a valley it is. The old palace of Istana Seri Menanti boasts its towering architectural which can be seen right from afar. The roof was built with ‘scissor-shaped’ points which is said to represent buffalo horns and the palace was said to be built WITHOUT using any nails at all! Amazing, ain’t it? It is already of age around 100 years and a cultural heritage that should be preserved!

After scrutinizing the regal heirlooms, artifacts and admiring the beautiful Minangkabau architecture as well as the blue-yonder panoramic view of Seri Menanti, pushed off back to Central Region. Had luncheon at a stall near Ulu Bendul, a recreational park which is situated at the Kuala Pilah-Seri Menanti en route. Via LEKAS, arrived at The Mines less than an hour! Impressive, aite?

Initially, I have thought of booking ticket via online but turned out that I have to PAY ONLINE! This was different when I booked ticket for “Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows (Part I)- I could simply booked the ticket without having to pay for the tickets just yet. Anyway, managed to secure ticket for “Hikayat Merong Mahawangsa”. On whole, the film is a masterpiece that Malaysians can be proud of; in terms of its mythical adaptation, the locally-made CGIs and also the strong plot to support the film. I noticed that sexual innuendos are cleverly interjected just to add spicy flavour and the dialogues are less-poetry than of “Puteri Gunung Ledang” but yet retains the flowery rhythm of Bahasa Melayu/Malaysia; which is good because generations of these days shun the idea of watching linguistic-saturated piece of arts. All they want are actions, romance and mind-blowing CGIs. In terms of that, I personally believed KRU had fulfilled that via “Hikayat Merong Mahawangsa” but of course, there are a few flaws of here and there. Nonetheless, victorious supersedes the weakness.

In terms of ensemble of casts chosen, I believe Stephen Rahman-Hughes was a brilliant choice albeit he is of mix-parentage and hardly speak Bahasa Malaysia; but the pronunciation and the way he embodies and portrays the character is satisfactory. Probably due to his Broadway experience. The characters Roman Prince, Marcus is an alright performance; not a mind-blowing but it was OK. The Chinese Princess character is the subject of sexual innuendos of the film. With the Chinese-accented English, it is a make-believe that the Princess could converse English and Chinese interchangeably. But for the Bahasa Malaysia/Bahasa Melayu dialogue, it seemed so obvious that lines were dubbed. Too bad.

Merong Mahawangsa, Kesum (the shaman) & Embok (the love interest).

Kesum & Embok.

Roman Prince & Chinese Princess.

The character Embok, Merong Mahawangsa’s love interest and later his wife is portrayed by Umi Nazeera. She seemed like a good actress in “Nur Kasih” but unfortunately her character and the portrayal isn’t that superb in this film. The memorable characters-portrayal would definitely go to Kamawas, the crook (Khir Rahman) and the Chinese Princess handmaiden (Nell Ng). They are good and definitely put their immense embodiment of respective characters in their souls!

Merong Mahawangsa, Yasodha (Indian Lady) & Indian fighter.

Kamawas, the crook led the war.

The fight.

The Chinese camping at Langkasuka’s beach.

On whole, I give 4 stars outta 5 for making me very proud with the local masterpiece. Malaysia BOLEH!

Exploring Malaysia Truly Asia : An Al-Idrus Clan’s Wedding @ Kedah. Savouring Historical, Regal & Cultural Hearts Of Perak.

One week prior to the 1st semester school break, I made northern rendezvous along with Dagny. With an intention just to get myself accustomed with the idea of driving back to Northern Region, I make use of the opportunity to attend my Next-Cousin’s wedding, Dek Qah at Alor Star. So, pushed off from Serendah, Hulu Selangor circa 8.30 P.M. and off we go to The Land of Paddy Field Vista! The journey was Alhamdulillah, a smooth-flowing without any glitches.

Happy Newly-Wed : Zaidy & Dek Qah!

Anyway, around 12.30 P.M., I pushed off to Alor Star and simply drove to Ween’s grandmother house – the place where Ween got married 2 years ago. I didn’t get to see the wedding invitation card as it was posted to Jitra and I just strongly believed that Dek Qah’s wedding must have taken place at the very same spot, wouldn’t it? Alas to my horror, the moment I arrived at the house, it was deserted with nothing but bushes and greenery! I was like – “OMG! Shit! Where the hell it could have been?!!” Tried to call Ween but she off the handphone; understandably as her sister was getting married, Ween’s probably busy ushering people here and there! I was clueless and dumbfounded! How am I supposed to know the venue??? Tried to call Ween 7-8 times but, prove to no avail!

Me & Distant Cousin, Kak Bujie.

Me & Next-Cousin, Ween.

Then, I remembered Kak Niah, my cousin who is married to Ween’s cousin (of which how we are cousin-related)! Called her and I just learned that she is in her confinement period after giving birth to her second child! Geez! Reluctantly, I asked her about the Dek Qah’s wedding venue- but Kak Niah being the cool and poised woman simply said it was no biggie and told me that the wedding is held at WHS Homestay circa Alor Star. I was clueless because I am not Kedahan native- but since Kak Niah said it is near Kedah Stadium, I drove there. Kak Niah gave me Watih’s number (Ween’s 3rd sister) and Watih gave me instructions with Syam (Ween’s husband) clearly gave the direction. And voila! I arrived there safe and sound. Hahahaha!

The Morroco-inspired Ubudiah Mosque- the landmark for Kuala Kangsar, Royal Town of Perak.

Perak Waterfront.

Arrived there and met Kak Bujie! Miss her so much! Ween, Syam, Watih and all were so ever busy entertaining guests and Dek Qah & Zaidy were looking radiant. Congratulation for both of you! Muah Muah!

The delicious & sumptuous luncheon comprising roasted catfishes, sourish juice, cockles (main course) & of course, Laksa Kuala! *drool!*

Anyway, around 4.00 P.M., pushed off from Alor Star to the Central Region. Spontaneously, I decided to take a tour to explore Perak because I never really take time to visit Perak and savor the state cultural heritages or scenery. Make a de-tour to the Royal Town, Kuala Kangsar (because I’ve never really spend my time there; merely for wedding or brief visit. Arrived at the town around 6.30 P.M. and had the chance to see the famous Ubudiah Mosque – which is a Morroco- arts-inspired building. Having the chance to perform prayer inside was a blessing and the mosque itself confines a very ethereal Ramadhan-feel. Serene, I say. Alhamdulillah.

Old Palace “Istana Ulu” which has been turned into HRH Sultan Azlan Shah’s Gallery.

The next morning, went to breakfast at Perak Waterfront and it was an immensely a congested place- full with people relaxing and enjoying “hair-down’ moments. I was most captivated by the morning scenery; there were few hills seen at the blue yonder-sights and Perak River flowing serenely, soothing troubled minds and hearts. For breakfast, I tried the famous Laksa Kuala - which initially I have skeptics since I am an ardent fan of laksa and all I know, Penang’s Asam laksa and Kedah’s laksa is the best. But how I was wrong! The laksa is said to be hand-made and the taste was simply DELICIOUS! And guess what, I even ate the laksa for lunch; right after the real main course lunch – roasted catfish and sourish juice! Hmmmm! Alhamdulillah! My stomach was indeed FULL! The Perak Waterfront is a must-visit place for authentic cuisines-lovers!

The sun dial at the front of main historical complex of Pasir Salak.

Then, a quick dash into the Old Palace “Istana Ulu” which has been turned into HRH Sultan Azlan Shah’s Gallery. Unfortunately, cameras are not allowed. But I can tell, it was cool to witness the chronology of the life of this Sultan. An educated ruler who was groomed to be a lawyer, he wedded a Penangite teacher-commoner who was schooled at the prestigious St. George’s Girls School (my sister’s school) and later known as HRH Permaisuri Tunku Bainun. HRH Sultan was an excellent hockey player and played important role in shaping the laws of Perak state as well as Malaysia on whole!

The porcelain remnants.

Diorama depicting the hanging procession of Malay warriors including Dato’ Maharajalela for killing the arrogant English Resident, J.W.W. Birch at Pasir Salak. What an uncivilized decision!

After 1.30 P.M, made the journey to Pasir Salak where the Historical Complex is located. Pasir Salak is a well-known spot for being the place where the arrogant and snobbish English Resident, J.W.W. Birch was killed by the Malay warriors led by Dato’ Maharajalela whilst taking shower in bathhouse at the brink of Perak River. The historical place is indeed a great place depicting the chronologies and dioramas of the historical sequences and I honestly was too immersed with the historical vibes! Throughout my visit at Pasir Salak, my head kept spinning the traditional song from Noraniza Idris, entitled “Pasir Salak” itself. Hahahaha!

Leaning Clock Tower of Teluk Intan.

After that, pushed off towards Central Region and arrived at Teluk Intan where the famous Leaning Clock Tower is located. The tower was built by a Chinese entrepreneur in 1885 and served as a water tower to supply for the usage of Teluk Intan’s residences. There seems to be a well at the centre of the ground floor base of the tower. I could see a lot of gold coins thrown inside- perhaps as a wishing well. The tower still has a functioning clock that rings the alarm and virtually, we can see the whole Teluk Intan from an elevated level at the topmost floor.I felt as if I was like Quasimodo in “Hunchback of Notre Dame.” Amazing!

Gold coins in Wishing Well at the base of Clock Tower.

Spiral wooden staircase and the old bell.

Pushed off to Serendah around 6.45 P.M. and arrived at Serendah, Hulu Selangor circa 8.30 P.M. Above all, it was a satisfying weekend for me! An experience-enriching to travel locally. (,”)

Parents’ 2nd Time Makkah Entourage : Oh,”When The Lights Go Down.”!

On this fateful 2nd March 2011, Ayah & Mak fly to the Holy Makkah for the 2nd time to perform Umrah- another courtesy sponsored by dear cousin-in-law Abang Jie. The entourage which comprises approximately 15 people is set to spend circa 18 days at the Holy Land. Alhamdulillah for both Mak & Ayah; I guess God SWT has destined that they would be given chance to visit the place TWICE via sponsoring. Alhamdulillah. I hope for the safe journey there and on the way back.

Courtesy of Google Image.

So happen that this 2nd March is on Wednesday; so obviously people are working. Mak & Ayah adamantly objected the idea of me taking any leave for the sake of accompanying them till departure time; and let alone to drive alone from Serendah to Kuala Lumpur Airport, KLIA since I was considered as a ‘virgin’ in driving. But, I simply told them there’s nothing to be worried; if I go, then I go. If I don’t, then I don’t. But of course they were like objecting the idea vehemently. Still, I secretly concocted the plan- besides to see them; I also took this opportunity as a chance to prove to them that I am just cool with this driving experience. There’s no better way than to get yourself accustomed other than to brave yourself and not to let yourself caged with inferiority. As for me, I am just cool with it because I’ve been riding motorcycle back-and-fro from Serendah to Putrajaya. Some people don’t even dare to use motorcycle to brave the lorries and trailers at highways; but I did. Either way, it’s just parenting guts, I guess.

Courtesy of Google Image

So, after completing my classes until 12 o’clock; with permission and leniency of GPK 1, I pushed off from Serendah and braved through the so-ever congested Rawang which is full with lorries, trailers and vehicles- all were infused in the narrow roads leading out from Rawang to Kuala Lumpur! Took me around 40 minutes just to escape Rawang. Then, just sped off to KLIA. Alhamdulillah, finally I arrived at the soil of KLIA (alone!) and called Ayah & Mak and caught them with Abang Jie’s entourage. Mak Caq & Pak Caq were also joining the entourage as well as Pak Ngah & Mak Ngah. I also managed to meet Kak An, Abang Jie’s sister who I think has been ages since I last saw her! As bubbly and comedic feature she has, a serious and stern GPK 1 at Bukit Kinrara High School she is. It was nice to change introspective views on education world with her.

The epitome of Faith. Moslems don’t worship this. It’s just an emblem of unity. To God SWT.

Around 2.30 P.M, Ayah & Mak were scheduled to check-in. The entourage manned and led by Abang Jie had their prayers before check-in and then went in. I was feeling a little bit emotional but the burst of tears was shunned maybe because they were a lot of people. My mind kept recalling about how Muzem must have felt now. Honestly, I have to confess that I dread THAT. Perhaps, that’s why I was emotional. But of course all I can do is to pray and hope that everything would be all right. Insya Allah….

The night scenery.

Arrived at Serendah, Hulu Selangor around 3.15 p.M. and then had shower and prepared myself for the co-curriculum (it’s Wednesday) albeit I didn’t eat anything yet and was a bit lethargic. Nonetheless, amidst the scorching hot sun, all of us (teachers, pupils) did the aerobic/ “silat” gestures ceremoniously. Had fun with my colleagues- that’s why I love my career now, honestly!

The ever-flowing well of Zam Zam.

Above all, I am satisfied that I have succeed with the plan of maneuvering the car alone, get to meet my parents before they departed to Makkah and able to give them something (not much; but I know they appreciate that and I am immensely relieve for that. Just to get their blessing; which for me is immensely important! Baraqah; more like). May Allah bless the journey back-and forth. Insya Allah….When will my time to visit the Holy Land? Hmmm….

*Notes* : A song by country-crooner Faith Hill entitled “When The Lights Go Down”. Dedicating to appreciating people who are no more around with us. Simple but deep lyrics. Appreciate people around us. Before they last.

When the lights go down
He’ll be fillin’ a pan with the broom in his hand
In some diner ‘cross town
He’ll be wipin’ the bar and moppin’ the floor
Counting his tips and locking the doors
Restlin’ the devil that tells him to pour another round
When the lights go down

She’ll be callin’ a friend from her Mercedes Benz
But it’s too late now
They were there for the fame, the flash, and the thrill
The drop of the name, the parties of hills
As another star falls from the Hollywood Hills without a sound

When the lights go down
And there’s nothing left to be
When the lights go down
And the truth is all you see

When you feel that hole inside of your soul
And wonder what it’s made of, Oh we all find out
When the lights go down

When the lights go down
At the end of the day
With this game that I play
It’s gone another round
As I lay there alone on this big empty bed
Nothing but thoughts of you in my mind
I think of the things I wish I’d said when you were still around

And some of them are fears and all my doubts
Yeah, when the lights go down, oh