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Proud Of My Country

Our dearest Malaysia has reached the age of 53th. So, Happy Independent Day to all Malaysian!!!! =D

 

In conjunction with this memorable day, I am happy to share a lovely piece of writing by a foreign friend (also a blogger) who I know not long ago. It is about his point of view on our country based on his observation and experiences. A very interesting post I would say.

 

 

 

He is Neil Walter from Melbourne, Australia who is currently working in Malaysia.

*****

Be Proud Of Your Country

 

 

I've just returned from the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur to vote in my countries Federal Election. Being in the company of so many fellow Australians made me remember some of the specific things I miss about Australia and the underlying characteristics of the people. However, what made a bigger impression on me was all the big Malaysian flags everywhere - on buildings, signposts, at the train stations, even as I walked out of my condo. I know that this is in preparation for Hari Merdeka (Independence Day) on August 31st, and that this month of August is used to celebrate the country and what it stands for.


Sadly, after speaking to several Malaysians about the presence of the flags - I feel that I might be prouder of Malaysia than many Malaysians are. It disappoints me as a foreigner to see a proportion of Malaysians being cynical of their country - and some even seeing the efforts of the Government to create national pride as being a facade. Even though I consider Australians extremely proud of our country, you would never see big Australian flags posted consistently across our major buildings, at our banks, or our train stations. This is because we are at a core Australians and we know this; even if we are still deeply divided across political lines, and other sensitive issues including immigration, indigenous people, and race.


I believe that movements such as One Malaysia are the right direction for the country. I'm aware of the political and racial sensitivities and differences in the country, but this blog isn't about that. Political disagreements, racial disagreements, and inequality occurs in every country in the world - it's human nature to have a different opinion and policy on things. What's different is that when everything is stripped away - when it becomes a choice to take a side, which do you choose? If your country is being invaded by another - who's side are you on? If you have to pick up a weapon and fight for a side, which one is it?


I think that all Malaysians should be really proud of your country. Malaysia is my proudly adopted home and many other fellow foreigners have made the same decision to stay here. If I was just visiting Malaysia on a short holiday for the first time this month, I would get the strong impression from the flags on the buildings that Malaysia was indeed "One", and a nation moving forward as one. Even when I visited the Malaysian Pavilion at the World Expo in Shanghai, China earlier this year, everything was branded "One Malaysia", and visitors would of gotten a unified positive impression of the country.


There are so many progressive things happening in Malaysia right now. Through my social circles, I've mostly been following developments in Youth Entrepreneurship and Education. There are a number of positive, young, and influential individuals whom are taking it upon themselves to spread positive messages around these topics and much more through our youth. There are also several notable companies investing in these initiatives to create greater impact in the society.


It's empowering the community - especially a growing number of young people in this way that will help move Malaysia forward as one and move it to a developed country. To get there though, my observation is that negative perceptions from the past need to be addressed and looked at with renewed perspective.

 

From: http://www.rambling-mogul.com

*****

 

 

Neil’s post has touched my heart so deeply. The same question keeps on circling in mind my whenever I read this beautiful article, “If he can see it, why not us?”

 

Don’t you feel proud to be a Malaysian, too?

Milk: It Does Everybody Good!




21
Gallons of milk consumed per person in the U.S. annually.

9,201,000
Number of cows providing the supply.

6
Gallons each cow produces per day.

80 to 100
Pounds of manure each cow produces per day.

6
Nanograms of testosterone in each 8 oz glass of milk.

4.6 Billion
Calories saved in U.S. schools annually by switching to low-fat milk.

520 Million
Grams of fat also saved by the switch.

Now grab a cookie, and get to dippin' people! Have YOU helped save the world today?



For more information, visit: takepart.com

Microsoft and The Red Cross are Parting Waters...Literally!




As if dealing with its horrific aftermath in the physical form wasn't enough, Hurricane Katrina left deep scars on many people’s hearts emotionally. In order to alleviate a fraction of the incessant pressure on the victims‘ shoulders, The Red Cross and Microsoft announce their collaboration on a new website, Katrinasafe.org.

The purpose of the website is to help reunite families that may have been separated due to the inclement weather.

Until now, victims in the past have had to face challenges of sifting through multiple confusing websites searching through endless names which in most cases, lead to dead ends due to outdated or false information.

However, with this newly created site, Microsoft and The Red Cross have formulated a super-list with the most current and accurate information of those affected by the hurricane. Best of all, it’s all listed on ONE site.

"The goal of this collaboration is to make this process as simple as possible during this difficult time," says Steve Cooper, Chief Information Officer for the American Red Cross. "We are proactively bringing together data from every site we can so people do not have to search multiple sites."
While dealing with the strain of losing one’s resources in life, The American Red Cross accompanied with Microsoft are trying to give the victims back something that can help glue their lives back together: family. Have YOU helped save the world today?

For more information, visit: charitywire.com

Want to become a Social Firestarter? “Like” us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ BrushfireMG

Me In The Present

I have been busy looking for a place to do my internship in these few weeks. I had been to places like university and hospital to ask for vacancy. Well, so far the responses received aren’t that positive because those places which I visited are already full.

 

Currently, I am still searching for available internship for Counseling students like me. Hope that Shan’s and mine applications will be accepted (we are partners) soon.

 

So, I’m sorry if you have been waiting for my updates till your neck almost fall off (choi! just joking. better don’t. lol). There are so many things I wanna write but I am still figuring out.. em.. where should I begin?

 

Anyway, I would want to update you with my Part 2 Photo Of The Day photo collection. They are my footprints in these few weeks. Love them so much.

 

friendofriend1

The best smiles of the day =D

photoftheday16

The most respected guru – The Art Of Living.

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Visited one of the drug addicts centers in Selangor.

phoftheday16

Full House – With old and new friends <3

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One of my most unique photo collections.

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The most expensive durian i ever had in my life – RM45

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The sweetest dessert with a sweet buddy.

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Finally done running half of the campus.

A warm message to a friend who had caught my attention during in the class.photoftheday23

I love UM.

The Gathering Of Great Minds Party Conference.

photoftheday24 The coolest Chinese coursemates – Latest photo.

 

Ahhww…

I love all the memories I have so far. Though my editing skills isn’t that impressive (like those graphic designer or pro photographer), i still love all my above works. Looking forward for more adventures in future with people around me.

 

Wish you have a wonderful weekend. I know I’m going to enjoy mine. Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee =D

Equal Rights For All....Cell Phones?




All cell phones are created equal. Hey, at least that’s what they’re saying over in Europe with the new innovation of a universal cell phone charger!

By this time next year, Europeans will have the opportunity to share battery chargers with friends, rather than suffer from the annoyance of either having to buy another battery charger if away from home, or constantly badger perfect strangers to see if they share the same type of cellular phone.

Thanks to the efforts of the European Commission, the largest cellphone brands, including Apple, Motorola, Samsung and Research in Motion have signed an agreement stating that their cells phones will be compatible with the innovative Company’s highly anticipated charger starting in 2011.

Not only does a universal charger equate to less hassle, it also means less waste, which translates to being more ecologically conscientious. This new one-size-fits-all means that fewer chargers will meet their demise in a landfill, less electronic waste, and fewer resources consumed in manufacturing chargers.

Because our country doesn't have a government setting a deadline, it’s solely up to the cell phone makers to change to a single standard charger. This also may mean that these powerhouses may lose out on a few bucks from those Americans who are constantly forgetting their chargers while away on business. So, do we expect to be in the race with Europe for the universal charger? We’ll will kindly remind you not to hold your breath.

Not only is Europe ahead in their time zone, they're running circles around America with their technological way of thinking! Have YOU helped save the world today?

For more information, visit: cnn.com

Want to become a Social Firestarter? “Like” us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ BrushfireMG

Two Moons On 27.8.2010?

I just received an email regarding to ‘Two Moons on 27 August 2010” from a friend. The first question struck my mind, “IS THIS TRUE???”

 


MARK

 YOUR DIARY/CALENDAR

ONLY ONCE IN YOUR LIFETIME

 

Two moons on 27th August 2010

image001

 

27th Aug the Whole World is waiting for............. 
Planet Mars will be the brightest in the night sky starting August. It will look as large as the full moon to the naked eye. This will cultivate on Aug. 27 when Mars comes within 34.65M miles off earth. Be sure to watch the sky on Aug. 27 12:30 am. It will look like the earth has 2 moons.

 

The next time Mars may come this close is in 2287.

 

Share this with your friends as NO ONE ALIVE TODAY will ever see it again.

 

 

Just the other day, Shan and I were admiring the bright, round moon from different direction (she was looking from location A while me location B). I reminded myself that I should be ready with a camera next month, hoping to watch the brightest moon for the entire year because according to the Chinese Lunar Calender, it should be one. We called it the Latern Festival or Mooncake Festival. Yum~

 

So, my point is… I didn’t expect to receive such a news! 2 moons will appear tomorrow at 12.30am? Wait.. or is it later? Now I’m confuse. Maybe I should check out the sky later or any expert here? Do let me know.

 

thankiuvelimuch <3

Modern Celebrity Sophia Bush Popular Prom Hairstyles 2010

Modern Celebrity Sophia Bush Popular Prom Hairstyles 2010


Celebrity Sophia Bush an actress best known for her role in the CW series One Tree Hill. Bush has also appeared in movies like Van Wilder and John Tucker Must Die. But we're less interested in her movie roles and more intrigued by her red carpet hairstyles.Here we've put together some of her best hairstyle looks on the red carpet to help you get inspired this prom season. Whether you have a short bob or curly long locks there is something for you. Take a look at Sophia's best red carpet looks to help you decide on a hairstyle this prom.

 Modern Celebrity Sophia Bush Popular Prom Hairstyles 2010
 Modern Celebrity Sophia Bush Popular Prom Hairstyles 2010
 Modern Celebrity Sophia Bush Popular Prom Hairstyles 2010

Sincerity of A Stranger




Do you know what over five million letters actually look like? Yea, neither do we. But to the American soldiers in Iraq, Afghanistan and many other parts all over the world, those five million letters have been a main source of inspiration and motivation of those at home waiting for them to return. And this is all thanks to twenty-one year old, Shauna Fleming and her organization, A Million Thanks.

Although it’s currently gaining notoriety nationwide, Fleming thought up the idea of A Million Thanks shortly after 9/11, when she was just fifteen years of age. She remembers seeing every home in her neighborhood covered with yellow ribbons following the atrocity. As time went on, however, the yellow ribbons began to disappear, and Fleming became inspired to create an organization that would never stop appreciating our soldiers, irregardless of the worldly atmosphere.

The original goal of A Million Thanks was to place one million letters in the hands of hard working military men and women residing in Iraq and Afghanistan. When the quota was easily surpassed, Fleming shifted gears and went into overdrive, and the letters, of course, followed suit.

Whether it’s from a friendly acquaintance or a complete stranger, an expression of appreciation goes a long way. Whether you stand opposed or aligned with the US military obligations abroad, one thing is for sure: Our American soldiers need us almost as much as we need them. And that my friends, we shall never forget. Have YOU helped save the world today?

For more information, visit: takepart.com

Want to become a Social Firestarter? “Like” us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ BrushfireMG

How the iPhone Could Save Your Life!




Need to find a health care provider for you and your family? There’s an app for that!

Qualcomm, the mobile phone chipmaker, and AT&T, the largest US phone company, are uniting to provide a wide array of applications providing health-related services to consumers on the go and at home. With the massive influx of smart phones and applications, the two media moguls have struck gold in providing an important piece of the highly anticipated emerging market.

If you crack open your high school Economics book, it’s clear to see that the widely undisputed phenomenon of supply and demand is the reasoning behind the emergence of these so-called “m-health” market apps.

US sales of related wireless gadgets, applications, and services for consumers are projected to double to $600 million this year and could possibly double again to a whopping $1.3 billion, in 2011. Because of the “m-health” market’s promising potential, other tech industry giants such as Intel, IBM, Sprint Nextel, and Best Buy are following suit in the development of health apps.

Stemming from the aging American population in addition to governments’ and businesses’ abilities to control health care costs, people have now turned to at-home care and of course, their cell phones. In fact, health care’s share of the GDP alone climbed to 16.2 percent in 2007, a nearly ten percent increase from its previous number in 1970. The costs will continue to rise as the number of people sixty-five and older skyrockets to nearly 71 million, from 40 million just last year! Let’s put it simply, no one can afford their family doctor anymore!

In light of our wavering economy and rising health care costs, Americans are now focusing their attention to the one thing that they know best: the smart phone! Have YOU helped save the world today?

For more information, visit: businessweek.com

Want to become a Social Firestarter? “Like” us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ BrushfireMG

Shannyn Sossamon Short Celebrity Haircuts 2010 2011

Shannyn Sossamon Short Celebrity Haircuts 2010 2011


Take a look at these hot Hairstyles of Shannyn Sossamon. Very edgy razor haircuts and dramatic changes in hairstyles, is the way Shannyn Sossamon styles her mane. Shannyn has the perfect face for these short cuts and organized messy hair. She is very beautiful and that soft face balances the ruffiness of her hairstyles. I like the way she changes up the rocker look and hits us with pure beauty with long hair and big soft curls. With her face any hairstyle will work.

 Shannyn Sossamon Short Celebrity Haircuts 2010 2011
 Shannyn Sossamon Short Celebrity Haircuts 2010 2011

Curb Your Enthusiasm (and Your Uterus)




If you plan on getting married in India, you may way to think again. The district government in Satara, India, has created a new special honeymoon package for newlyweds which includes a monetary gift equivalent to one hundred and six dollars. Seems sweet. Seems practical. Yet, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

That’s because in order to receive the financial gift, newlyweds must accept a condition in which they may not conceive a child for at least two years. Although it may put a dampener on most brides highly anticipated day, the country done have its reasons.

In India, the population is about 1.2 billion and is likely to surpass China as the most populous country in the world in the near future. In more real terms, nearly half of the population is under the ripe ol’ age of twenty-five! To put it in even realer terms, a new baby is born in India every 1.25 seconds. A single day contains 86,400 seconds!!!

The obvious aim of the honeymoon package is to curb the country’s high birth rate since India’s schools and other resources are being stretched so thinly.

Currently, over 2,300 couples have enrolled in the program. Aside from discouraging these couples to expand their families, the package is hoping to help couples save their money and eventually finish school. Although the package somewhat stifles the rights of its people, one could argue that at least it has the best of intentions, right? Have YOU helped save the world today?


For more information, visit: takepart.com

Want to become a Social Firestarter? “Like” us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ BrushfireMG

Lions, Tigers and Bikers...oh my!




Step aside Hell’s Angles. Take a seat Pagans...there’s a new motorcycle crew in town, and these guys aint messin’ around. Rescue Ink is changing the way both you and I think about the leather-wearing, chain-toting, long-haired “born to be bad” hellions of the world.

Rescue Ink is an animal-rescue group dedicated to battling animal abuse and neglect, and educating and informing children and families about the mistreatment of animals. But don't confuse this animal group with most of the others. This tough-talking tattooed chain-gang isn't afraid to use their verbal muscle power to pick a fight against animal cruelty, and it’s a fight they don't plan on losing.

The Rescue Ink riders use their intimidating presence to shame and report animal abusers all the while rehabilitating distressed animals. Being that the organization is still a young one, what with being founded just earlier this year, they are open to any job that is presented to them.

When a group of renegade chickens took roost in a Queens neighborhood a few months back, the boys came to the rescue and helped guide the New York City animal control to victory and caught all of the wild chickens including the rogue rooster responsible for the mass multiplying, who they charmingly named Junior.

So next time you see your neighborhood friendly biker, give him a hug rather than a shrug! For he may be the guy who rescues your new kitten Whiskers, when she’s stuck in the tallest branch of a nearby tree! Have YOU helped save the world today?


For more information, visit: rescueink.org

Want to become a Social Firestarter? “Like” us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ BrushfireMG

Italk Whoa Push Mail Function

Advertorial

 

I love using iTalk Whoa ‘mail’ feature.

 

I can just simply retrieve emails from different account such as gmail, hotmail and yahoo. That’s mean, I can read all emails at one channel. Thus, I can save time from signing in and out just to check my emails (and SPAM.. puff).

 

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Besides, Pushmail feature allows you to forward any selected email to your handphone easily. Isn’t it cool? You can directly send emails to your handphone.

 

 

 

If you have not registered as a italk Whoa user, you should do it right not because there are lot of cool functions that you will like, especially to those active social networking users. Visit here for Whoa effect!

Do You Have Balls?

I dunno about you but I feel funny reading the statement below. It was a WLAN network which my phone had detected when I was in a conference party last afternoon.

 

funny1

 

I believe that is a good place to find balls. Great. Emmm….

Who’s Hungry For Change?




Truth be told, snacking is one of America’s favorite pastimes. From the early morning until the late night hours, everyone finds enormous satisfaction in a little “pick-me-up.” Although snacking may do harm to our waistline, companies like Sun Chips are now making snacking a pastime that is healthy for the most important entity within our lives: the earth!

Sun Chips have made a packaging breakthrough that works as great as it sounds! In order to create a world with less waste, Sun Chip’s bags are now fully compostable. In fact, every 10.5 ounce bag is designed to fully break down in just fourteen weeks when placed in a hot, active compost bin or pile.

Aside from its obvious benefit to Mother Nature, the noise that sounds when opening a bag of Sun Chips is literally “music to our ears!” If the bag’s crinkling sound seems apparently different than previous ones, it is because of the plant-based materials used in its production which enable it to be eco-friendly.

As seen on NBC’s Today Show in addition to creating a world-wide phenomenon all over YouTube, Sun Chips packaging is stirring up some noise when it comes to preserving our earth and our taste buds! It takes a conscientious company like Sun Chips to demonstrate just how simply irresistible change can be! Have YOU helped save the world today?


For more information, visit: sunchips.com

Want to become a Social Firestarter? “Like” us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ BrushfireMG

23 New Spicy Things: Run 1/2 Campus

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!

 

 

I have completed my 4th goals which is to run half of my campus with a friend. I can’t believe it that I managed to run (and walk) half the campus. Thank to Bei Shan dear for accompany me and being my motivator. She is good in that :)

 

If you still remember my 23 New Spicy Things To Do list, you will understand what is this all about. Do check out before continue reading this.

 

For your information, I had not been doing any walking since… well.. I couldn’t even remember. lol. My stamina is weak and I can hear the alarm bell, pushing me to do something on that.

 

photoftheday20 My 1 year old Adidas sport shoes is my best walking buddy.

 

Well, ran today in a very spontaneous mode. I did that without much planning. Again, thank to Bei Shan for borrowing her short pants which allow me to run better (or else, i might have to run with my skinny jeans. no no, bad choice).

 

So yes, I’ve completed my 4th goals. Looking forward for more success.

 

Wish you have a great Friday (and I know I will!)