Merry Christmas...

AND a Happy New Year!!

Yeah..........2009 is coming soon. I wonder what is in store??

Well, Only God knows.

Anyway i think 2008 is the most interesting year for me because i manage to do many things i really want and see the multiple blessings of God. Anyway, i'll be spending my last few hours of 2008 at the Church Combined Prayer Meeting rather than other shopping mall countdowns. It's best to pray for the future right? I mean i rather have another bountiful year than going to the mall. And also to give our time and all our thankfulness to God.

Hope to see you there?

Happy New Year and God Bless You!

Good reads and Good music Vs Wordly reads and music:

A slight small neutral debate in Eu Fern's Cbox somehow stir my conscience a little. She would like me to write a blog post to clarify my thoughts and reasons . So here goes...

Background: In the world today we are basically bombarded with lots of things which can influence and change us. From New York's Bestsellers to MTV award winners so many books and music are out there. Sadly, mostly has many negative influences. Hence,i have made a stand not to read a book till i know the plot and i would read the lyrics first before listening to the music. Because i do not want to be influenced wrongly. I know it is hard to be set apart for God. Many people constantly label me as "holy" and "orang kuno (prehistoric person )" but that how it should be if we want to stand for Christ. Who cares if i don't read the latest book or know the latest world hit single? As long i know i reading and listening to good stuff , i rather stick that way.

Matthew 10:22 (New International Version)

22All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.

Saved mentally too, Amen??

I'm not saying that we must burn the books or march a parade to go against them(books, singer, etc..) but just don't buy/support them and give friendly advises to friends and family.

Touching On Music:

I remember one time i was bored and i was listening to random songs on the radio. One song catched my attention as the melody and rhythm was very nice. I find myself jiggling and humming to it. I'm a musical person and if a song catches my attention the tune will stick to me all day. Haflway through the song negative words were used as the lyrics. I was shocked. I quickly turned off the music.

But sadly, the melody stayed in my head and i find the words kept on repeating over and over again. I felt really bad. It took a few days for me to get rid of the song.

Songs has a tendency of getting into a subconscious mind which is a part of us we can't really control. It's like a reflex. Sometimes when you leave your radio on and you continue with your work, your subconscious mind is still working , getting the data and information from the wrong songs you hear. Maybe in a particular situation, those wrong songs will come bubbling through your head. Songs that will actually influence your action. Let say by accident you hear rock metal about anger and hatred. One day perhaps those songs will come when you are angry against someone. Somehow , music influence us lots.

Back in the D'encounter camp. Pastor Daniel about how he chose to refuse hearing worldly music because God told him too. Remember? Well it is the same way for me. I remember Psalmist Steve Harris from Australia told us before; " If music can draw us to worship God , create a positive presence of the Holy Spirit, show's God's glory and change us, How much more negtive wordly music can do?" . We worship God through music. Apparently, the world worships themselves and the devil. So who are you tuning into?

Proverbs 4:23 (New International Version)

23 Above all else, guard your heart,
for it is the wellspring of life.

Touching On reading:

Many books recently are getting attention such as the old Harry Potter series, The Da Vinci Code, and especially Stephanie Meyer's vampire collection. The same it is for music and the same it shall be for books. What you read and see shall be forever imprinted into your mind(subconscious) . If you always read books about violence, perhaps one day you'll react violently. If you always read good-mannered books, it will be reflected in your personality. True?

But it is fiction?

Well yes i know the story books are fiction. Bottomline is what are the good values, lessons, and teachings we can learn? None mostly. Like Harry Potter and Stephanie Meyer's books are mostly researched on witchcraft and satanic rituals. These are non-fiction at all. The philosopher's stone is a tool to call out to the devil and sabbatical goat. Sexual practices in Stephanie' Meyer's books are deeply rooted in Satanic Churches. Why read about them? Why support these practices? Why? Why? Why?

Statistically, many children are being influenced . Ambitions to be a witch or wizard, to fall in love with a vampire and etc.......are not so uncommon anymore. Parents are shocked to find these words of wrong longing of their children desires. We're living in near-end times and Satan is trying it's best to make itself look good. Since when devils/vampires are good? since when withcraft is good? tell me. The bible speaks strongly against all these practices. Though the book is fiction, the CONTENT IS REAL. For Da Vinci Code, it is just a book of lies. Why read something that doubts your faith ? Read the bible which actually strengthens your faith.

By now, i expect some of you would be feeling uneasy. But just think of a moment, how much time have we wasted conforming to the world?

Romans 12:2 (New International Version)

2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Let's see the bigger picture , shall we?

Your support to the worldy wrong music and books will:

1. Bring support to the authors/singers. Your money invested in their stuff are only encouraging them to make more wrong stuff. Make sense?

2. Increase Statistics. 999,999 people and 1 million hits is very different. As i said earlier, it will make the author/singers think that you want more of these songs.

3.Close the gap between Christians and Pre-Believers. Hey, if Christians are also hearing and reading this stuff "for fun" , No different than us pre-believers right??

4. Weak generation from God. Wrong ideas , values , and teachings will only be mixed up with Christian teachings. Bible mentions that new wine cannot be poured into old wine skins. If we're still in our old selves, how can we learn to be more like God if we're confuse and doubtful?

5. Cause more to be influnce wrongly. More cash means more means of wrong materials to be distributed around to other countries or even translated.

I will write more if i can think of more impacts it can bring XD.

Overall i am not saying i am Holy and you should be so restrictive in any way. Tryin my best to be not a pharisee ok? I mean we do make mistakes occasionally but we should be more careful. Some books and songs may be good to hear (as in lyrics are good too) but sometimes the intentions of the authors or singers may be wrong too. For example, Chicken soup for the soul by Jack Canfield? I know it is a good book but Jack Canfield tributes to his success to the New Age Thinking Movement whereby they think themselves as humans are God and they don't believe in Him (Jesus). So do be wary! The money Jack Canfield receieves will be used to slowly add teachings of the New Age movement into his books and also to "bring the good news around". Apparently, some of the stories you read before are stories from shamans and Dalai Lama. They call themselves Christians and do have a Pastor but the teachings are not from Christ. So it would be best to check about the author's or singer's life too.

I know i didn't talk about television and computer games . I have resources and materials which i can use to bombard you with all the statistics and psychology reports. But nah, i hope you can understand. Same for television and computer games. Not good= Don't play or watch.

So are you willing to Stand For God??

So what should we do? Just don't support, read, listen, or buy. Simple enough. Save your money for another day or good reading materials and songs.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true,
whatever is noble, whatever is right,
whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable
- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -
think about these things.

Phil 4:8 NIV

I think i finally get my thoughts through. Please , no more debates until we see face to face? I hate typing debates. Haha. XD

P/s: I think most of America will hate me now, Oh well~

I Remembered...

It's the time again where most of the 15 years old are anticipating their PMR results.

Anyway when the exam results were released i remembered i was swimming. Not in swimming competition , silly! But in the very pools of Santubong Resort. Haha. I was with other seniors at our Embacy Youth Leadership camp. It is a time whereby we leaders can too receive from God as most of us are drained out during the camp.

I remember that those who gets straight A's were too be thrown overboard by using Mark's Surf Board. Thank God i got Straight A's . However i didn't get thrown overboard. The reason why?

I was overweight and Mark poor board was only Styrofoam.

I wish all the best to youths and friends i know that are getting their results today. May God comfort you in whatever results you have. Remember, He is too good to be unkind , He is too wise to be mistaken. When you don't see his plan, When you can't trace his hand, TRUST his Heart!!

Like me i didn't get the results i wanted for SPM but God still broke a miracle for me. Trust Him Always~

Plushy Mushy

I am having very mixed up feelings right now. Yes it is the case of the plushy mushy attack. Just like Pastor Daniel's "chao chim tao" and his wife's "fei fei tut tut" my hard-earned teddy bear appreciation gift is gone. During my form 4 till form 5 as a prefect i had gone through so much problems even till the extent of sweeping other's vomit and all kinds of gruesome stuff. Nominated as the prefect of the month i received this teddy bear in blue scarf with a cute letter "b" on its chest. I always place it in my bedroom and it reminds me of my memories as a prefect.

NOW IT IS GONE!

As i am away most of the time in Curtin , Miri , i hardly remember exactly how the bear looks like. Recently, my family and I attended a christmas dinner. There was a gift exchange. My Sister took my bear as a gift exchange! Inititally i was saying it really looks like my bear in bedroom and was making sure that she didn't took my bear. She said " No no no no no it is an aunty that gave it to me and etc" . Now the bear is with some old aunty as i remembered vividly. I wished that i could reverse time and just took the bear back. Now it is all gone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*cries softly*

Merry Christmas~

Today is once again to remember our Saviour's Birth , Jesus Christ. Once again our church had a special meeting at Thien Court , Crown Square. For the pass three days, me, Wilson, and Samuel have been working together the youths to form a choir. We ( actually I) didn't choose a christmas carols but instead we chose a hymn medley. To cater for older folks i guess. When it is our turn to perform it started a bit rocky and ended rockier, however, overall it was ok. At least we tenors didn't overpower.

I was planning to write a longer post but i am too tired. I fell sick today and kept on feeling like fainting. To Kat, i think this is what it is meant by a blue christmas.

Anyways, Merry Christmas once again!

Praise God!

I can't believe i am blogging this at 5.37 am. That's the thing i don't like staying at hotels. Hope i can muster enough energy for the upcoming youth camp.

That isn't what this post is about thought. Recently, i've been trying to log into Curtin website to access my results. However, because my password is too long i had to reset it which only enabled me to access it yesterday. I'm so excited as i scored 80++ and above for all foundation subjects which means i am a High Distinction Student! Hopefully i managed to enter the Dean's List.

Foundation Engineering COURSE CODE 155E
Unit	Final Mark	Grade
FP-040 Engineering Mathematics I	86	8
FP-052 v1 Research and Writing Skills 061	82	8
FP-050 Physics I	98	9
FP-045 Programming in C++ (I)	98	9
MPW 2133 Malaysian Studies	82	8
FP-033 Chemistry I	84	8
Course Status: Good Standing

I would like first of all to Thank God or rather Jesus for helping me throughout my starting of life in Curtin. Honestly, i find it very hard to study before exams as it is such a breakwaway from the Malaysian study system. Being one of the lowest for internal marks among peers, i have to work twice as harder to achieve 80++. Thank God i made it! The days before the exam of constant studying paid off. I also want to thank our gracious Father Jesus for giving me the calmness and peace during the exams so that i can do my best. Those who knows me well, i can do many mistakes under a panicky mode.

That's all. Now to try going back to sleep!

Landed Safely at KLIA

Yay finally arrived at LCCT-KLIA. I don't like the LCCT. You can tell that they didn't really planned out the building construction and quality that well. Anyway i am now stuck here after having my costly meal with my family at McDonalds. You know why? Our plan was delayed for an extra 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Lesser time means more stress+hurry for us to reach the hotel and church in time for the Prophetic Conference.

Haha anyways i am so nervous of my foundation first sem results. I hope i can get HD for most of the subjects of even a D . It's hard changing the mind set that A is bad (it means Absent) and D is actually very good (distinction). Oh well. The results i heard will only be released by 5 pm.

Let's hope that i have a wi-fi connection to actually check it.
*Crosses Fingers*

Tata till i can get an internet connection.

Slightly Insomniac

Lately, i'm beginning to have my bed time slowly decreasing. I do not have a clue why i am getting still active at night. Can only sleep after 1++ . Anyways, i am a declaring a hiatus from the 10th-20th December because i would be away to Penang, KL and back for a youth camp. Anyone still interested in the camp? It is not too late

As aforementioned, the day i leave for Penang is also D'Day for my semester 1 results!!!! Arghh!! I hope i get good marks as i feel rather confident. For those who would like something from Penang and KL can contact me.

























Yes i would be using Air Asia. Everyone can fly.....Without excess luggage XD !!

Where Spring and Winter meets~

Are you confused with the title?















Haha don't be. I am just promoting about the event tomorrow at the Spring. A group of us will be performing christmas songs and dances. Come and watch me dance and rock the house mall!

Venue: The Spring
Time: 7.30pm - 9++

Do come and support me!!!

If the dances are boring at least you can go shopping right??? hahaha~


















Lately i cannot really update my blog as i am busy with piano lessons and theory. Practically i feel like i am in music school. Everyday it is just me and my piano. I feel kinda overwhelm as i practiced my Grade 5 pieces extremely well and i just got "promoted" to Grade 6 in just ONE WEEK.People say i am literally crazy! Now i have to do all the harmonic and melodic minor scales which are a bum. Sigh~ Oh well, to improve myself!!!


By the way, someone gae my dad an erhu. So now i am playing it too! Way cool!!

Battle of the Yogis

I found an interesting article about yoga which is currently a heated debate in Malaysia. It is a very timely post especially for Christians.

On Nov. 22, the National Fatwa Council (NFC) issued an edict that yoga is haram (prohibited) for Muslims. Earlier on, Prof. Zakaria Stapa of the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Islamic Studies Centre had remarked that practising yoga could deviate Muslims from their faith. His statement drew negative reactions from yoga instructors and students.

The president of the Malaysia Yoga Society lamented the misunderstanding and said that Malaysian yoga was different from the practices in India which incorporated religion and spirituality. It was “more of a treatment modality” (TheSun, 23/11/08)

Many view yoga as a form of exercise to strengthen and improve their muscles and breathing as well as to relax their mind, thus keeping them good health. But why has it become such a big issue to certain religious groups? The bone of contention seems to be the meditation techniques – or “curbing the mind” as some call it. While it has been argued that these techniques are scientifically proven to improve one’s health and have nothing to do with religion, yogis – practitioners of yoga who have reached an advanced spiritual state – think otherwise. They are adamant that yoga, regardless of how it is branded, is Hinduism.

Within the Christian community, yoga too has been a controversial subject – some have reservations while others see nothing wrong as long as those who practise do not deviate from Christian faith. Rev. Dr Herman Shastri, the General Secretary of the Malaysian Council of Churches, opined that it was all right so long as Christians do not pray “to other Gods while practising yoga” (The Star, 31/10/08). However, some Christians disagree, and like the yogis, they firmly believe that yoga cannot be separated from its Hindu roots even if one takes away the spiritual underpinning and practises only the physical exercises.

Still others hold that yoga can surely be redeemed for God’s good purposes because our God is a redemptive God. A growing interest in Christian Yoga was thus developed, particularly in America, replacing Hindu spirituality and philosophy with Christian spirituality and theories. Such concept, nonetheless, did not go down well with certain groups.

The American Hindu Foundation, in its response to an article “Stretching for Jesus” featured in Time magazine (25 Aug. 2005), commented, “Hindu Americans are rightfully outraged by the brazen appropriation of one of their vibrant faith’s most lasting contributions to this country’s health, well-being and popular culture.” It called Christian Yoga an act of “intellectual property theft” and accused evangelical Christians of proselytising and converting Hindus in the guise of Christianised Hindu practices. Some Christians who formerly practised yoga think that Christian Yoga is an oxymoron.

In actual fact, Christian yoga, according to Dr Ng Kam Weng, director of Kairos Research Centre, fails to understand how yoga meditative exercises (especially the breathing techniques and the mantra chanting) work to disrupt our mental function. Change of name does not change the process, he says.

Yoga is an ancient practice that originated from India. The goal of the practitioners is to achieve oneness or union with the Absolute through physical and mental disciplines. Dr Ng emphasises that one must keep in mind the historical connection between yoga and Hinduism and how such practices are traditionally integrated with its own philosophy and spiritual worldview. The physical exercises are merely initial steps to prepare oneself to become more attuned to a higher reality.

Perhaps the question for many Christians would be: Is it possible to separate the physical exercise from the spiritual aspect?

“In theory it is possible for Christians to separate the physical exercises from the spiritual exercises. I have in mind Christians who just want to try out some postures to stretch their muscles when they exercise at home. Others who are more serious may try out *Pilates. However, those who take yoga seriously will soon find that yoga is offered as a package deal. Meditation is the main ingredient to achieve spiritual enlightenment. In other words, serious yoga instructors do not separate the form from the substance,” Dr Ng explains.

He also clarifies the difference between Christian and yoga meditation. The former carries a positive function as meditating on the glory of God and His manifold works inspire the Christian to praise and love God; it is relationship and content oriented. The latter, in contrast, has a negative function; it deliberately empties the mind of rational thought processes and eventually leads to the dissolution of ego or the inner self. Dr Ng cautions that Christians should be wary of such exercises in dissociating the mind from its normal function since this may leave one vulnerable to external spiritual influence.

Some may have reportedly found peace with yoga meditation, but others have developed mental dysfunction, e.g. hallucination, outburst of uncontrollable energies through the body and emotional trauma. According to renowned psychoanalyst Carl Jung, “The deliberately-induced psychotic state, which in certain unstable individuals might easily lead to a real psychosis, is a danger that needs to be taken very seriously indeed.”

Dr Ng urges Christians, who are practising yoga or who are thinking of taking it up, to seriously consider their motive for doing so. If it is merely for physical exercises, there are other alternatives; if it is for meditation, we need to seriously consider the basis of yoga meditation as it is traditionally practised.

“Why would I hitch my Christian faith to a process which might render myself vulnerable to influence from deceptive spiritual forces?” he asks.

While yoga practices are culturally not wrong, Christians are encouraged to exercise spiritual discernment in making their choices.



*Pilates (pĭ-lä’tēz) – A system of exercises that promote the strengthening of the body, often using specialised equipment. Named after Joseph Pilates (1880–1967), German-born American physical fitness instructor who developed the system. – The American Heritage® Dictionary

_______________________________
taken from The Agora

Camp Promo Video~

Here's the camp promo :



A professionally well-done video by the Tan Brothers. Haha. Do come and join us!

Embacy Youth Camp!

The time is nearing once again~ The Annual Embacy[Emmanuel Baptist Youth] Youth Camp!
This time we have a special speaker, Pastor Daniel from Cornerstone Community Church of Singapore to share God's Word. For all the christians and non-christians[who wanna know more about God] alike should come and attend the camp. The fee is cheap which is only RM 100[subsidise already] which is inclusive of a 3D2N stay at Santubong resort, food, transport to the resort, materials not to mention the receiving of God's word, new friends and fellowship plus all kinds of fun. Trust me, you would not regret the time and money spent here.

Ask the other previous camp attendees, most of them enjoyed the time in the camp. Besides that, get the chance to hear many great testimonies!

Here's the camp form:






















If you would like to know more, please leave a message at the tag box and i will try to reply A.S.A.P. For those who wants to join, do leave a message and i'll contanct you.

P/S If you have some problems attending the camp such as lack of monetary funds and transportation BUT you wanna join, do contact me so that i can enquire about these matters for you.

1002 ways to embarass yourself

As a tribute to yesterday's catchphrase, i will post some videos of myself. Hopefully it is not to embarrassing. Here are some of them:

In Miri, I joined the Varsity Christian Fellowship(VCF) choir. I sang as a tenor and only attended a whopping 3 practice! However, don't look down on me as i have somewhat develop a very strong talent in harmonics. Anyway, here's the video. For me , the nicest part was the ending. When i hear good music, i will get shivers[this case, only the ending]



Yeah i know it doesn't sound nice but it is a very good effort from the others. The main problem is lacking in girl power to balance out the male crooners. We need help!! Other things to improve are articulation, feelings!!!, expression, and music theory. Maybe next semester i will play a more active role. It was hard trying to make sure my choir-mates sing in tune as mostly are not of musical background.

Some dancing video:


I was dancing a chinese cultural dance for CNY. Tried my best not to look pondan-ish (sissy). OH well~

Gua Niah: The Expedition

Yesterday a dozen of us decided to go on a Gua Niah expedition without any tour guides. The Gua Niah gang consisted of Foundation in Engineering students which are me myself, Kip Loong, Darrold, Chai Kah Seng, Daniel Su, Daniel lim, Kon Chee Ling, Brenda Yap, Patrick, You Ung, Hyan Ping(all from 1E3), and the "sesat" only IE2 , Aaron. Hehe.Doing this the first time and alone, we DIDN"T prepare anything much except of money, water bottles, mosquito repellent(highly important) and headlights for heads (not cars). I will write the series of unfortunate events in chronological order.

6.30 am

Wakey wakey!! *knock knock* . I open the door and i saw Kip Loong with a cheery face asking me whether i was awake yet. "Urgggh!" i said as i groggily said a no and proceed to the bathroom to prepare for the trip. Cold waters do good in waking myself up. Quickly as a cheetah human I packed my stuff to get ready for the trip and brought 3 liters of water in my backpack. Chatted with Aaron and Kip Loong as we waited for the "girls" , Darrold(kidding XD) and Brenda.

7.00 am

Brenda and Darrold were still not ready!!! Argggggh!!! Kip loong, Aaron ,the transport meister Kah Seng the valiant one with his shining steed , the silverish darkerish Avanza were waiting in vain with me. Anyway while waiting , we checked out the headlights Kah Seng brought for us to buy(Kah Seng's parents are business people). Got discounted prices too! Thanks Kah Seng! After we decided the light for our future expedition we got into the car, 6 in total and proceed to the caves. Following behind us was another shining steed of gold, the Avanza. Haha. On Guard to the caves!

7.oo-9.00am

The total journey on the way can be actually summarized with the catchphrase of the day "Abuthen!" [Singlish for oh yes! It certainly is] . Aaron was misusing the phrase the whole journey. Thanks to him i also know the reason why i don't have a chinese name. In Catonese it would be Cheng Ka Tak. Which in Hokkien and Malay would be "wear a frog". =.= Thank Goodness! Such a slimy and froggish name. And no, you have no permission to use that name to me as i would slap you till your cheeks becomes like bak pau! Further lame jokes passed the time to the next pit stop, breakfast point!

9.00 am
Sat down and ordered our fuel of the day, kolo mee pok!

9.10 am
Our milos arrived but the noodles are nowhere in sight!

9.20 am
Tick tock tick tock~

9.30am
Swallowed our noodles and we were back on the road!

10.15 am
Arrived at the niah caves main gates and did some registration. For wanna-hikers, the fees for students is Rm 5. And do bring Rm 2 for the boat trip across the river (to-and-fro) . We went to the loo while others roam around for awhile. While all registration were done, we proceed ot the river!

10.25 am
WHAT A RIP OFF! - That was what Aaron said in his heart. Hehe. The river, which span across a width of only 10-15 meters needed a boat. Aaron suggested why not a bridge instead. After all, the river isn't that high. When i stepped into the boat, the boat sank swayed left and right. I think at some point, the gang we cursing in their hearts why did i even bother coming . I think it was like " We're gonna drown! GONNA DROWN! Oh? We're safe...Anders isn't that heavy!" . Hahahaa. Dont mind me typing this. Lack of sleep has its wonders. Haha.

10.30am
That's where the track starts after the river was crossed. Hup 2, 3, 4 as we marched onwards to the battle field; the tracks to the Gua Niah! We hiked all the way upward while admiring nature and its beauty while echoes of our chatter went through to the forest followed by many "shuusssh!" all the time. Due to superstition, i wasn't allowed to talk as i always call people by name. We all had nicknames like Da Jie(me, as usual), mei mei, ge ge, lao gong, da sao etc...As the superstition goes, calling people's name in a forest of cave may cause unfortunate series of events for that person. As a Christian, i chose not the believe that nonsensical stuff. I mean, why get paranoid ?We're here to enjoy God's Creation which are good and not to be scared of it??Some suggested using our enemies names and lecturers( of course we didn't, love your enemies!). Along the way we noticed many beautiful stone formations and trees. Some trees were awesomely smart as their thick trunks managed to grow through the spaces between the large rocks. One could see the various levels of rock layers all beautiful. There were gecko lizards, bugs, beautiful butterflies and all sorts. However, be careful where you place your hands as there are many poisonous millipedes of bright orange and yellow. Many of the millipedes were mating on each other ( i am not a pervert, it's science) . Some find it disgusting. Haha. We keep on having to stop as the "sakai" people kept on wanting to take pictures delaying the hike further.

However, at almost the peak, i was about to give up. I was tired, REALLY tired. Along the way, we were greated by four native ladies selling drinks and merchandise. I was tempted to buy, but the drink's price were really expensive. Nevermind, just continue and finish this, i said.

About 11.15 am

I was greeted with a flight of stairs on the hill leading to the first cave, the Traders Cave. The stairs greeted me with a mischievous grin, pushing and pulling me down, making sure i lose every ounce of energy in me. I swore i could hear the evil laughter echoing from the stairs. Grrr! I said. I CAN DO THIS! With many huffes , puffes and a single silent prayer i made it to the first cave! Made of Batu Kapur , we were astounded by the white beauty of the cave. The breeze was kinda cool and i think i know why traders used the cave as physically, most of the cave is flat, making it perfect for trading. I could envisioned the hustle and bustle of live at that cave. Many poles of wood were propped to prevent any future or unwanted cave-ins. Halfway admiring a local native bird-nest collector greeted us with a friendly smile saying that we're far from the real caves, The Great Cave and The Painted Cave. Silently i hoped that it was closer.

Oh great!, More Stairs!!!!

11.30 am

Patters of water drops from the stalacites from the celing of the caves and a whiff of Guano smell(bat shit). Finally at the mouth of the caves i was drop dead gorgeous tired. I wished i could rest but i could not, as we had to hike as fast as we can before it was too late. The Niah caves are reported to be quite dangerous especially at night as it can be very dark. The great cave was really beautiful enormous. It's larger than any mall. Each step we took was done carefully. A slight fall sideways may cause calamities , maybe even death as some parts were high . However, no worries as the railing are quite high. You can't fall unless you really want to. Some parts of the caves were dark and we had to used our headlights to show the way. For those who don't have any headlights, rental is available at the mini-museum. However, the hardest part for me again were the stairs. Aaron was by my side, assisting me as i was really tired. The stairs were chanting in my mind " Give up , give up , give up , give up!!" . It was really the batlle of the mind. I said to myself i can do it as it is all the matter of will power! Again, i said a quick prayer asking for strength. Halfway we had to stop as most of us could use a quick break and some water.

Continuing on, we finally arrived at the end of the dark , cold, slippery floors of the Great Cave. I've conquered two and finally one more to go!

12.10 pm
Walk walk walk walk in the light! X 3 Walking in the light of God!
Practically we were walking on the bridge under God's light , the Sun! I was glad as finally the wooden plankways are flat. No more stairs! Hoorah! I decided to overtake the rest and walk fast so that when i slow down (tiredness), i won't be left behind. After a pathway of twist and turns, i saw something that shook my bones. It was more flight of stairs!!!!! Angrily i mustered every single strength and i attempted to climb all the way up. I wanted to prove to myself that a person like me with willpower can climb all the way up to the Painted Caves. My right leg said no! I had a cramp halfway. Lactic acid buildup and tiredness gave in. My mind wanted to go on but my body is saying no. Friends suggested me to rest for awhile and catch up later. Disappointingly i said down, accompanied by my good friend Darrold. After a few minutes of rest i decided to go on as i was almost there. Attempting a few set of stairs at a time i reached the top. The painted cave. I was revisiting my old sejarah textbooks (history textbooks) of ancient civilizations. Sadly, the paint were quite wore off and only some parts can be seen. Provided were some clear sample photos of the caves painting. Pamphlets says the drawings are of the battles of the people on warships and dead souls.

At the top of the mount and caves, it was exhilarating. I finally made it to the top where pre-historic of civilisations occured. It was like my tiredness were washed away. I made it to all three caves!!!! I sang some Christians songs at the top. I mean, if ancient people worshipped their Gods/spirits/souls with sadness, i will worship mine with gladness. Tears of happiness did came to my eyes. I felt so peaceful and happy. A sense of accomplishment was achieved. 20 minutes later ,we had to head down.

About 12.30 pm
This time is was the journey backwards. The same trail except for some parts in the cave. Going back to the Great Cave was the easiest part as not much energy was to be used as it was downwards/downstairs most of the time. I faced some challenge though at the end of the Great Cave as i had to take many flight of stairs upwards. Bumped into many other visitors/tourists along the way at the dark part of the cave. Many of us find it scary. Surprisingly i find it serene. Imagine in the cave where people lived. I think i would be a nice place to live in minus the bat and birds droppings of course. Halfway in the Great Cave there was a split point. As we had to go back, we needed to take the left trail in order to prevent bumping into other tourist on the right(trails are smaller there). The trail here was the hardest of all hardest points. I was greeted with 10 sets of stairs of 8 each, making a grand total of 80 excruciating pain, agony, needle pricking painful steps. I felt like giving up but i can't give up in a cave, could I? Thankfully, Darrold the best pal in this trip helped me, giving me positive thought and said i could make it. After all it is just 80 steps and then i was downwards all the way. Attempting 8 steps at a time i took a rest to ease the pain. I didn't care whether i had bird droppings, bat droppings on my body or whether i touched them on the railings, my ultimate goal was to climb that circumstance and overcome it to get out of the freaking cave!

Finally i saw the light and the RESTING POINT!!!!I Grabbed the chance to sit properly, rest and drank some more water. Others climbed up a humongous rock next to the resting point to take some pictures of themselves. I wish i could however, i couldn't.

1.00 pm
Thankfully most of the trail from the Great Cave onwards are downwards. But as most people say, going downwards is the hardest of all. That is true for me too. Not only you have to watch your grip on the slippery stairs, the upward motion of the ankles cause pain to your ankles too. I slightly sprain my left ankle down the stairs but i didn't mention it to anyone. So it was walk walk walk all the way down, revisiting the trail we had once walk. When i arrived at the drink station which has the "extraordinary" drinks price, i couldn't care anymore. I spent a grand total of 9 ringgit on a can of 100 plus (isotonic benefits) , coke and mineral water as mine was running out.

After that we proceed our journey. "PAIN!!!!!" i suddenly yelled. My right leg upwards was cramped and there i was in no vicinity of a pondok (resting hut). Darrold again (thank you so much!) rested with me while the rest continued. Throughout the way back i was shuffling my feet as that was the only way to prevent the acting of the cramp. Seizing every opportunity at a pondok, i managed to get to the hill only minutes later than the others. It was a glimmer of hope that lifted me as i run walked to river as quickly as i can so that i can finally go home. I let out a heavy but proud sigh . "I CONQUERED GUA NIAH!!!" I said loudly as i could.

Approximatly 3pm
I went to toilet to splash heavenly cool water and have a good rest before embarking back to Miri city. When i looked back, i learn a valuable lesson that our mind is capable of doing great things. Indeed, the whole hike and back was mind over body. Not only that, i proved to myself that a fat person like me can do it. So why can't you???

Go Gua Niah!!


Photos later k?

Final Finals!

Yes the FINALS ARE OFFICIALLY OVER!! Woohoo!!

Today i had programming in C++ test. I hope i get full marks for the exam as i have worked hard for it. My Internal marks for programming is also the highest. So happy!!

Anyway, to celebrate i will celebrate with mother nature tomorrow. I would be going in my gang to pay a trip to Gua Niah. It's also known as the largest cave in the world. A pair of shoes and maybe a cap and some strong perfume will help i guess. I heard it stinks very bad till even u come out of the cave, your nose stinks. Haha! We shall see. Reason of going? I also want to survey the place too. Next year in geology we have to draw and tell the experience.

Ready, get set, and Hold your nose!!!

Final Exams This Week

*Updated**updated again*
Sorry for not updating my blog regularly. Fear not, I will be back in action after the exams this week:

Monday
Chemistry and Engineering maths
Yes! Two down and four more to go to my ultimate freedom! Woohoo!
Another reason to praise God is that i manged to be composed throughout the finals today. I was actually really nervous the day before. But we prayers from my mom and dad, and my own quiet time, i find it really strange to have a sudden confidence this morning. Woke up around 5 am and was studying but i couldn't do much either. I just knew that God will help me. And he did! I was very surprised i could do all questions for both Chemistry and Engineering Maths though i knew i did some silly mistakes! Haha, need not to bother, just a few marks i guess. By God's grace i will get High Distinction!!! Amen~

Well tonight i shall just do some light studying for physics and highlight the points i need for Research & Writing skills. Two major exams in a day is like a full day for SPM. Haha. Haven't had that feeling in a long time. Anyways i shall continue to do well like today!!





















Study Study study~



Tuesday

Free~ Free~ Can relax a bit

Wednesday

Physics, Research & Writing Skills, and Malaysian studies(this one no need to study because i pass it already, hehe). Still, the workload! omigosh! o.0

Yes I just complete these three subjects. Feeling giddy now. Have to study for programming tomorrow!!! Arghhh!!

Anyway for Physics i managed to do quite well. Hoping a high distinction for this when i didn't really study properly (i mean i didn't do enough exercises :p) . Manage to finish the paper in an hour. I was nervous i couldn't complete but i managed to. Haha. Lose one mark so far because i forgot to calculate the position vector X.

For malaysian studies. Bwahahahah. SInce i passed i just studied last minute today. Went through the slide and main topic. Tembak the MCQ but did properly for the subjective. Many "interesting questions " like name two traditional games and how to promote it; name a race and states its cultures; based on your project, how would you encourage people to save the environment etc.......i think it's easy to answer though. I hope i can get distinction for this even though credit would be fine for me.

Writing and research skills.Hmmmm.. What do i have to say? I hope i can quite good as well but i know i did the referencing wrongly. Oh well aiming only credit or distinction for this as my teacher marks quite a high standard. I dislike having too many different teachers for subjective marking such as these. Not quite fair as some teachers tend to be lenient from one class to another. Though there is reanalyzing the essays for the teachers of other class, one can be a bit favouritism. I mean which teacher wants to criticize another one's marking? Conflict will arised. Sigh, oh well at least i know my standard is up to par with other good ones. Just on thing though; do you think the others will benefit when they learnt to get 39.2/40 is so easy to attain with a low-level english? Mind you, it's university. Broken grammar and incorrect sentence structure should be in existent at a Australian university. It's strange when sometimes some lecutrers aren't mature enough. Its odd. Oh well, welcome to private uni~

Warning: Highlight below if you really want to read. It may offend you.

Now for programming. Full gear and speed ahead!!! Then tomorrow i shall enjoy~Hope i'll be able to sleep tomorrow as some people are drinking tomorrow at my house. I dislike cheap alcoholic beer (except shandy :p) drinkers. I prefer a little red wine and healthful drinks. Sometimes being here is like you're exposed full-blast to the world. Being alone and away from parents especially makes them very subceptible to go wild. Yet to find true christian friends among my foundation peers. Kinda sad though :( . Well, have to pray for some. Though i have very good seniors and embacy youth seniors , it's not enough. It's better to have one of the same age. Share testimonies and building each other up. I'm sick of being labelled holy guy just because i am the way i am. I am tired of people telling me to loosen up and enjoy. I am who i am . Sigh~ WHY can't people understand? I'm sick of hypocrites ( i hope i am not one) saying one thing and doing another. Why be a christian if you think that listening, doing, and behaving that way is not wrong? Sigh~ Some didn't even know that such thing was mentioned in the bible. One thing i have to admit is listening to gossip. It was a bad habit of mine and it came back here after being around many gossipers. Wow, long rant. sigh~

Sorry for those who get offended. Anyway, rather know what i really feel then being ignorant later? Father God, please please please bless me with non-nominal christians!!!! Sigh~

Back to study, tudy , udy udy dy.........

Thursday
Programming in C++ ( yay one paper only!)

Friday
Gua Niah!!!(0o0ops that is not an exam paper)

Well, back to studying now. Jia you Curtin peeps!!!

Once in a Lifetime~

TODAY, it will be my first time playing the piano for someone's wedding. Boy, do i feel nervous. Not only that, the hall is soundproofed and i have to play louder so that the sound can go across the room. Scary man~

Anyway, congrats to future-to-be-husband-and-wife-in-a-few-hours Terry and Jacqueline!

And also, Happy Birthday to Jonathan Lee!

Shall update with more pics soon~

Busy+Disappointment=Tiredness

That equation basically sums up my whole week. With a laptop which has a bad status hard drive, i can't quite finish my assignments properly! Lord Help ME!!!!

Here i am typing away in the ICT lab on a cold Saturday Morning. All by myself.....shucks!!!

Anyway, i can't type much right now and i still can't do my b'day post which is like super-uber late......

Till i get a lappie...

chao~

When you're old~

Hahahhahaha........That time is coming......i Feel old......

Highlight of the day!

Short rant:

Ever since i stepped into the realm of independence in Miri, i never thought to ever hear this sentence again:

"You know how to cook, but Never know how to wash!"

This time, the sentence didn't depart from my parents mouth, but rather, mine. Gosh, i feel very old right now. So stressed out when i see my pots, pans, and cutleries used by others and never being washed unless told to. Their reason? Forgetfulness. Well, i remember to wash when i use their stuff, why can't they do so? Sigh~ I think "karma" does take a toll on you when you forget to wash your dishes unless your parents tell you too. Haha.

That's not the highlight of the day, but it was what happen earlier today. I was practically panicking to study before the quiz by looking through lecture slides. As i was about to, the whole Curtin Campus had a brown out! Hallelujah!!!!! The quiz was cancelled! Haha. It was a funny sight to see all students streaming out like ants from the ICT labs wondering what happened. Well, being a campus striving for a "paperless environment" has its drawbacks too.

Anyway, that's basically for now till next time. I am going for Youth Alpha tonight so i can't do a big review on what happened for the past week.

Photolog of Kuching and Miri

Hey guys and gals, thanks for still dropping by. I know i know, haven't update in awhile. Well thanks to the raya holidays i have sometime to take a breath and breathe easy from assignments, essays and quizzes. So picking from where i left of the other day....


THE GREAT LOK THIEN BUFFET

It's not that great really but the selection of foods are nice; especially if you're chinese (ITS HALAL, i think XD). Rm 16++ for wide varieties and orange juice or coke. Since i won't be celebrating my b'day with my parents [hintoctober17hint], they decided to have a pre-celebration with me. Gosh, i gained more weight than what i lose in miri. Buffet in only Fridays during lunch break.


The Wide selection of food: Fish, Vegetables, Prawns, Sotong, "shark fin" soup, fried chicken, noodles, cold platter, dim sum, dessert and etc.....Mind you when i say fish, it's a lot of different kinds of fish and the same goes with other general food names.
















Awesome steam fish[got my fair share here, coz in miri i can't buy fish] and rojaks.
















THe mountain of sotongs, tempura, ham , spicy jellyfish, meatballs, sushi etc..... and orange juice



















Starbucks Coffee, Spring
After that i went to Starbucks to have some Malaysian Studies and CHemistry discussion with my kuching-born curtin friends.....


My first ever starbucks coffee[i usually patronised coffee bean]: Caramel Macchiato















Searching and searching for notes on the free wi-fi
















After the discussion , me, Melvin and Nazri were dragged along by Brenda to search for a purse and heels. She ended up with a pink bodyglove purse which was still BULKY and defeated the whole purpose . You've gotta lose the unnecessary cards, my friend.


The Great Departure

Before leaving i had to bake something right? None other than my family's all time favourite; Shepherd's Pie [The Anders' Way] . With finest quality ingredients and fine vintage australian cheddar cheese and an awesome *coughchefanderscough* , Here's the yummylicious product!


Top angler: Don't mind the blotch, just extra bubbled up sauce
















Side angle

















Dig in the lovely layer of meat and potatoes and CHEESE!
















The shepherds pie on a pile of rice















Those who don't like frozen veggies can opt to use fresh ingredients.


Then waited for a slow Brenda in the airport who went shopping for chocolates first at the Spring. Once all checked and done we got onboard , with of course a cup of freshly grinded coffee at coffee bean[expensive gosh!]. Miri's civilisation is no where closed to Kuching. Nevermind for that week, been saving up for it anyway.

Greeted with a colourful display , 0o0ops i mean seats. Kinda relived my childhood days. At least it brightened my reluctant mood of leaving kuching.


Boarding















Brenda and Anders forgetting to turn off the phone















Landed in Miri safely after a turbelent ride. And when i mean turbulent , it was really scary. Super high above the clouds~ Waited for Brenda's cousin to fetch us. Only to know his name is Han koko because Brenda don't have a good mind in remembering names.

There, more of my life was covered about Kuching. So far many problems crop up but it won't be mention here. At least reserve some gab for the catching up session end of this year peeple!!!


The Adventures Of Patrick Star

Yes it is mine. Don't laugh. I SAID DONT' LAUGH! [it was given by my dad, XD......i was serious]


Patrick at Research and Writing Skills class. Wrote a 2929 words essay. Beautiful number!















Patrick and Darrold's new FAKE ODM watch
















Patrick learns to stand on his jelly feet. Behind: Brenda and Syafiq grinning!















Patrick noticed something funny on the newsboard















Yup it's right. A course on how to blog!!!!!! How cheesey can it get. And they actually pay for it!!!! Let me summarise it lah. Step 1, sign up on blogger, Step 2, type a post and add picture or other form of media to be more interesting, Step 3 upload it! Simple, quick and easy. Just think diary and u can get anywhere!















Enhance blogging-*imagines ppl learning how to add photos in the blog*
Hotpot blogging-*imagine ppl learning the art of blogging in streamyz hotspot areas*
a WASTE OF MAH-NEY!!! Please spend it on actually starting a proper wi-fi lar. sigh~


Patrick at the Chicken Rice Shop[nope, not the commercialized ones]. This one serrved special potato spheres .

Patrick learns to drink Liang Teh. Common Drinks here are served in bottles, Rm2 each. Can share with about 3 people.















Patrick is happy!
















Patrick and small bear.

















Patricka n Pinks















Patrick and his pink girl-bears![during programming class]















Patrick loves to pose














Find the hidden patrick!















Patrick at war!















Patrick got paparazzi-rized!















Fat Patrick- You need a diet!















We had youth alpha weekend away[last week] too at Imperial Hotel. Rented out a penthouse.


Starry starry night at Miri! [top view from imperial hotel]














Celebrating Suhas B'day!















Suhas B'day Boy!














Cut cake cut cake!














Had plenty of fun. Was the winner of the Mafia Game [ i was a mafia]. I betrayed my other three mafia and i won. Hehehehe! They thought i was a civilian. When it was down to 3 person, i had to pulled out my innocent face and they aimed the wrong one. Haha. Hilarious fun! Top the night, i mean early morning off with watching the movie Monsters Inc till 3 am. Yes it is old but it warms up the soul.

Fun fun fun~

6 in the morning
















6.30 am! Miri if freaking bright! thank God for curtains!















The Alpha Gang from left : Galvin, Oguchi from Nigeria, Samson and Robest.















What can i say, Curtin is Fun! However, drains away my energy too~ Needs plenty of rest while preparing for next week's quiz, presentation and test. Sigh~ I hate holidays. Still need to do work. SIgh[i feel like Ahma]~


Happy now Seraphina?
One long post done..........XD

Pre-Kuching, In-Kuching

Gosh today is so boring so i decided to blog a bit. I shall rewind what me and my friends did till the time i left miri.

I had my first cake in Secret Recipe and it was simply delicious!

















Bored gang after a wild goose chase to the ramadhan bazaar
















Cappucino du fromage~[cappucino cheese cake]
















My phone camera sometimes can take good photos like this
















The cake is very well done but i don't think its much of a secret when u publish the ingredients?
Basically basic lemon cheesecake with coffee, biscuit + coffee base, cappuccino chocolate sprinkles~
















Missing speck


We also went to the Sarawak Museum but it was closed. So we went to see the fishes instead.
















Upside down catfish
















The gang. Basically bringin Jacky[kelantan] and Yinn Xi[Johor] around Kuching to see the sight and good food

















7 of us fit into a normal Kembara. Most of the time Aaron and Melvin sat in the boot of the car.
















Well no 7 of us can fit into this car definitely



















Sakai XD
















Melvin walking away in humiliation after he sat on the car

















And oh we love mirrors [we're all at parkson]
















We really really do



















See we love it even more XD
















Walking the streets of Parkson


















At Sing Garden. Enjoying the food promotion.All the food were priced RM2 and drinks cost RM0.50

















Brenda and Aaron

















Melvin and Jacky
















Aaron talking politicks!
















Sing Garden



















Teh C Peng special. 50 cents only! haha




















Mooncake festival day on Sunday!!! Went to friendship park with my family

Large floating lanterns









Sister with lanterns











Me with the lanterns




















Close up of our lanterns


















Sister and her best friend Cheryl


















Sillhoutte of my sis

















Expensive kueh tiaw at the airport

















Seraphina eating a bun


















Without the bun blocking















Me, myself and I


















Ann talking while eating while winking. XD

















Tonight suppose to go catch a movie and go for a buffet. Hopefully it comes to pass!