Don't Lose Your Faith, Don't Run Away....

DON’T BE JUDGE-MENTAL

2012-03-20T01:09:00.005+08:00

I work in the music business. I don't drink. I don't smoke. I don't party. I don’t do drugs. I don't sleep around. I make enough to be comfortable. So please don't stereotype anyone who works in our business… or for that matter DON’T stereotype anyone! Everyone still thinks I come from a business of Sex, Drugs and Rock and Roll. "Ohhhhh.. you work in the music business. Are you a singer?" Yeah, sure...Do you really want to see me empty a room! or it's... "So do you know (insert singers name here), are they snobbish/bossy/like a diva". Too many times I have seen people quick to judge those around them…. When you don’t have anything nice to say, keep quiet, IF YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND DON'T JUDGE.

There are people from all backgrounds in my business. From Artistes, Sponsors, Sound System suppliers, Sound Engineers, Musical Instrument Suppliers, Crew, Cleaners, Video Operators, Cameramen, Caterers, Journalists and many, many others. They all come from different backgrounds. I don’t think of them by race, creed, sexual preference, background, color and language… these things NEVER EVER cross my mind. Sometimes the rich guy could be the most down to earth, humble, singlet/slipper wearing person and the poor guy could be a complete ass but again I judge not because upbringing and circumstance sometimes molds people to become who they are… I treat everyone with respect NO MATTER how they treat me or what their backgrounds are.

What I’m saying is just because someone smokes, swears, has tattoos, has long hair or drinks does NOT a bad person make. You may not condone certain things but you decide if you should follow or not. In my life I have seen much and been there but I was not the one participating, neither was I the one to pass judgment… I was there to be the best friend I could be… sometimes that’s all we can be. We were all young once in our lives… my vice before smoking, which I am NOT proud of but circumstance and a weak will pushed me there (but only there). My strong side kept me away from the rest and eventually helped me kick the smoking habit too.

In Malaysia we have been taught to be superficial. Long hair = drug addict, Tattoo = gangster, Music industry = drugs= AIDS (I've heard a minister say this) and our beliefs in God are by the way we dress and the way we act. We’re afraid to be influenced by this, that and the other. But let’s step back and think about it… in a more Western nation where it isn’t custom to cover heads (maybe because of the culture, NOT religion) it doesn't make them any less a Muslim. Or in an environment where people swear openly or have body art, it also doesn't make them any less religious/good/kind. It’s all about the circumstance, surroundings, up bringing and what is in our hearts and minds more than the appearance or what we see at first impression.

What give us the right to be holier-than-thou, or the right to judge others before you judge yourself…. I believe we will all be judged one day but not in this life. So let’s not get all mental about the people and things around us… you don't want people to judge you either!

Don't TOUCH the mantas... whilst you're at it DON'T TOUCH ANYTHING!

2011-06-01T13:42:00.004+08:00

On my recent trip to layang-layang we had the pleasure of seeing mantas. Such beautiful and graceful creatures that are truly breathtaking to watch and appreciate. But yes many people take to chasing them or disturbing them on cleaning stations. If they are curious and comfortable they will come towards you... imagine a stranger chasing you down the road trying to take a picture of you or touch you! So being curious I decided to read a little bit more about them and share it with you, if you are interested.

Extracted from Dive-The-World.com

Distinguishing Features

Mantas can grow to 6.7m wide, weigh up to 1,400kg, and are the largest of all rays. The Spanish word for blanket is 'manta' and aptly describes the unique spherical body shape of this animal.

Also known as "devil ray" with graceful pectoral 'wings', manta rays are easily recognised by their paddle-like cephalic lobes projecting forward from the front of the head (actually extensions of the pectoral fins, supported by radial cartilages), and a very broad, rectangular terminal mouth.

Mantas vary in colour from black, grey-blue, to red-brown on the upper surface of their cartilage body, sometimes with white shoulder patches and blotches, and almost pure white on the lower surface of their pectoral fins and body disc. Their body patterns show individual variation and helps identify individuals.

There are also regional differences in manta ray colour patterns. For example, specimens from the eastern Pacific often feature dusky to mostly black undersurfaces, while those from the western Pacific are typically snow white underneath.

Although it's difficult not to recognise an adult manta ray, juveniles are similar to mobula rays (of which there are 9 species) that grow to 3 metres and share paddle-shaped cephalic lobes and gracefully curved pectoral wings. Mantas are now thought to be a single species, and mobulas are most readily distinguished by the position of the mouth - mobulas have sub-terminal mouths (located underneath the head, similar to many sharks), whilst mantas have terminal mouths (located at the front of the head).

Behaviour

A manta ray is capable of rapid speed and juveniles sometimes leap well clear of the water, landing with a loud slap, sometimes performing 2 or 3 of these jumps in succession. The act seems to be playing or social behaviour - the great, crashing splash of their re-entries can often be heard from miles away. Getting rid of parasites may also play a role, much like breeching whales.

Manta rays frequently visit reef-side "cleaning stations" to let cleaner wrasse remove small parasites from skin and gill cavities, sometimes several lining up to wait their turn.

Seemingly inquisitive, manta rays may sometimes approach and even solicit attention from divers, apparently enjoying the tactile stimulation provided by human contact as well as the bubbles from scuba units. In areas frequented by divers, however, they often become very wary and cease to approach.

When approached rapidly or grasped, they roll onto their backs, dive, or swim away rapidly, righting themselves only when some distance away. Entering the water carefully so as to not scare manta rays away will greatly increase the enjoyment of your encounter and protect them from injury. Hovering and staying still will eventually allow the manta ray to approach you. It's best to position yourself a long the bottom or near a cleaning station to observe them close up.

Touching a manta ray, even if they present their bellies for a rub, will remove some of the mucus that protects them against marine infections. Stay within their vision and let them decide if they want to approach you. Although some manta rays seem to enjoy the bubbles from the SCUBA unit on their bellies, avoid exhaling bubbles into their face, as it may scare them off.

Flash photography and video doesn't seem to bother the manta ray, but do not disturb them if they are engage in feeding, cleaning or mating. Direct eye contact is considered a friendly connection, which they also seem to enjoy. Remember to never ride a manta ray, event though it may appear as if they present themselves for a ride.

Reproduction

The manta ray is ovoviviparous with a usual litter size of 2 - each pup wrapped in a thin-shell that hatches inside the mother, later to be born alive. Birth occurs in relatively shallow water, where the young remain for several years before expanding their range further offshore. Like sharks and other rays, mantas are fertilized internally. The fertilized eggs develop inside a mother manta's body for an unknown length of time that may exceed 12 months.

So those that dive please help conserve the beauty for generations to come.

Peace, Love and Respect,
Jenn

Reply to : Sabah may be the first state to ban shark hunting (Press Statement : The Star, Sunday May 8, 2011)

2011-06-01T13:16:00.006+08:00

Dear Datuk Masidi,

As a Malaysian, a diver and a person who has seen first hand horrifc shark finning in Mabul I applaud your efforts and those of the Sabah state government and anyone who is working towards the conservation of our marine life.

Conservation is everyone’s business be it government, private sector, communities and individuals but the initiative must start from somewhere.

Malaysia has world-class dive sites which are frequented by visitors far and wide. Fishing villagers and communities need to be taught and given alternative means of making a living other than by the exploitation of the marine life and coral reefs. They need to learn that protecting the environment can also be good for business and they can cultivate the benefits of a healthy ecosystem.

Adequate financing, proper management systems and support need to be given to the villagers so that they are ensured of jobs and income to provide for their families. They should be trained to support the tourism industry rather than make their living via illegal activities. Although heads and expertise can come from abroad but all staffing should be locals who are trained to either enforce the regulations (i.e. no sharking hunting, fish bombing, commercial fishing), become guides, boatsmen, run dive operations, operators of home stays or hotels and eventually the community will be able to sustain themselves.

After all the ones reaping the riches of such illegal activities such as shark fining are not those catching the sharks themselves but those that fund such operations.

We cannot blame those that are only trying to make a living. Change cannot happen overnight. Mindsets and socio-economic conditions take time to change but we need to start now before we come to the point of no return for our marine life.

Thank you.

Yours sincerely,
Jennifer Thompson

ORIGINAL PRESS REPORT -
Sunday May 8, 2011

SABAH MAY BE THE FIRST STATE TO BAN SHARK HUNTING
By MUGUNTAN VANAR
vmugu@thestar.com.my

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is likely to be the first state to ban shark hunting for their fins in a bid to protect the marine creature.

The state government is now studying the legal aspects of the proposed ban which would require amendments to the State Wildlife Protection Ordinance with the aim of introducing it by the end of the year.

State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun said the situation was becoming critical for this marine creature as only 20% of its original population was still left in the country.

“From my last briefing, there are only four areas in Sabah where sharks can be spotted.

“If we don't do something about it, the population may disappear from our waters completely,” Masidi said yesterday.

Masidi said he was told by experts that the sharks no longer existed in peninsular Malaysia waters.

He said the state attorney-general was now studying the matter.

He added that the state government was working with non-governmental groups to educate the public on the need to protect sharks from “disappearing” entirely.

“We understand the sensitivities involved as it is a must for some people to serve shark fin soup during weddings. But what we are trying to do is to educate the people to skip the dish for conservation's sake,” he said, adding that it would also get Malaysia Airports Berhad to bar retailers from selling shark fins in airports in the state.

The state government, he added, had also taken shark fin soup off the menu of its official functions.

Band Aid

2011-02-06T23:34:00.011+08:00

Over the last two months I have been attending a whole slew of Band auditions and competitions just to get a feel of what is happening on the ground.

I like going or being a part of events such as these as it allows the bands to see their weaknesses and strength. It also serves as a guide to seeing how they fair against other bands and how to cope with performance pressure, which is very different from a practice studio or a small venue.

Malaysia has a lot of musical talent but they need guidance and polish so that they can shine. So many have the ability but it isn’t just about that. It’s the whole package – looks, musicianship, performance and stage presence, communication, handling fans, talking to press, etc.

Going to these things always ends up enlightening me too. There are a whole bunch of things to write about. Here are just my two cents worth of observations :

1) Respecting each other

A band is a group of people, all with different characters, hopes, likes and dislikes. So the first thing you need to do is RESPECT and understand each other. There is, however, no excuse for not coming on time, not turning up at all and not practicing your parts. Discipline is a BIG part of success.

2) Open to Criticism.

The Band (or Artistes) themselves need an open mind so they can always learn and improve. There is ALWAYS room for improvement. There is a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Sometimes people say hurtful things and some times the truth hurts. So you need to be able to take it all in stride and use it positively.

3) Practice for perfection.

You need to play your songs over and over again so that you don’t even need to think how to play it. It becomes second nature or auto pilot so that you can concentrate on other things – the way you look, the way you stand, the way you communicate with the audience.

4) Perform to excel.

You need to perform then only can they improve their musicianship, playing together, pitching and communication with the audience. Practice IS important but performing on a live stage with an audience is very different. So we need performing venues and a touring circuit (Yes, government I’m talking to you… this is totally another subject which I can rant on)

5) When you think you’re doing enough, do some more.

Performance is about giving 200 percent, passionately. Fake movements and reactions really show, that’s why when you do something you have to commit. Practice in front of a mirror that’s the only way you can see how you look. If you see Aerosmith, Queen, Deep Purple, Earth, Wind and Fire they all perform with passion moving the audience with their playing ability and their passionate performance. You give 200% and the audience will feel 100% anything less and you will get a lukewarm response.

7) Buy a tuner, AND USE IT.

Most bands still do not own a tuner you cannot tune your guitars without a tuner. I have seen so many bands suffer the consequence of playing out of tune. For the audience, what more if the audience is professional, it is excruciating.

7) Dress for success.

It doesn’t need to be fancy clothes or outlandish but it does need to suit the concept. Yes outlandish if you’re playing glam rock but not if you’re going to do a killer ballad. Even a small amount of accessories can make blue jeans and a white tee look good.

8) Fitness matters.

Working out gives you the stamina to stand on stage and play your instrument or sing. Try standing on stage for 60 – 90 minutes carrying a bass guitar or guitar…. Drumming consistently non stop. After a while if you get tired you will start making mistakes. The fitter you are the more alert you will be.

9) Play as a team but still have star players.

As a band you have to realize that it is a team effort. Unfortunately it is normal that the singer or one of the musicians (normally the guitarist, don’t ask me why) is more recognized or covered than most. The others will have fans but normally they are people who play the instrument. This is something that you have to live with. If you don’t believe me look at The Police, Rolling Stones, Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, etc. And if you can’t accept it become a singer (or guitarist).

10) Choice of repertoire.

Choosing what songs to play and how you deliver them is something you have to learn to do. A show is playing with mass emotions. Driving the crowd, making them feel, leaving them wanting more. You need to plan your set and then practice it as it so you get the feel. And don’t ever make the mistake of not playing a hit song just because you’re fed-up because your fans will never tire of the song. Or if you’re participating in a competition you need a song that will grab attention (strong melody, tight playing, passionate) after all you only have minutes to impress.

Bands are a challenge but if you manage to stay and grow together it is definitely a rewarding experience. And to watch a band at work, like a well oiled performance machine, is always an exhilarating experience.

P/S : To all the metal bands I've been watching bravo to you cause you have the most heart and soul for the material you're playing. Not saying that you have to scream or jump around to be good you just have to believe and really feel your material.

Peace, Love and Respect.

Technology is an amazing thing

2011-01-26T02:30:00.000+08:00

I just learnt how to blog via mobile. Future foward..All hail the smartphone :p

Peace, Love, Respect

Life is what you make of it, but the gift of life is NOT in your hands

2011-01-25T00:50:00.004+08:00

Sometimes when we watch TV there are situations that we relate to. Well watching “Grey’s Anatomy” hit home for me the other day.

When you’re young you believe you’re invincible, able to achieve anything and everything. You set personal goals. I want to own a Ferrari by the age of 30, I want my dream house, travel round the world…. what ever the aspirations you can achieve them with hard work and perseverance. After all life is what you make of it.

But through life there are many experiences. Some up and some down but you move on cause these are lessons meant to mold you. Some meant to make you stronger, some to make you wiser. In my life I have been through many of these life lessons but none more trying and more moving than that of the consequences behind the birth of my second child, Nadiah.

Six and a half months into my pregnancy I suffered heavy bleeding. The blood was so heavy it was like I had been shot. The gynecologist than told me I had a low-lying placenta which was causing the bleeding and I would have to go through bed rest. Every time I would get up I would suffer bleeding and eventually the doctor, fearing a premature delivery, suggested that I go to KL General Hospital as they have the best facilities for premature babies. If I did not deliver there, and the baby had complications, it would be a lot harder to get in.

I endure approximately three weeks in the hospital until one night I felt contractions, they put me in observation, where I started to bleed heavily and then told me they had to perform a Caesarian Section to deliver the baby. The baby would be born at just a little over 7 months. Definitely premature, no guarantees as to what would happen. So in this story it is NOT my life that I was fearful for, it was the life of my child of which I had absolutely NO control over. I could do nothing but pray for her safety.

Nadiah was successfully delivered and was placed in an incubator in Pediatric ICU. Once I could walk I went downstairs to see this little child born at just 1 kg. All around her where babies with different problems, all fighting for their lives. It was a scary thought to what could happen. This is where you are helpless, no amount of money or anything that is tangible can help you, only faith and hope.

One night I went down by myself to take a look at her only to find a bunch of doctors and nurses around a baby that had turned blue, trying to revive it. I looked on in horror. One of the nurses turned around and said, “Ma’am, you baby is over there”. They had moved her without telling me. God only knows the relief that I felt but I would never forget the scene.

This story has a happy ending. Nadiah survived her ordeal and is now a bright, intelligent, beautiful 16 year old. But it taught me an important lesson. Life is NOT in our hands and that it IS a gift and NOT a given right. I was lucky that I had this experience it has taught me to give thanks to GOD everyday for the gift of Life.

“Each day’s a gift and not a given right” – If Today Was Your Last Day (Nickelback)

Peace, Love and Respect

Effort, Focus and Success

2011-01-15T19:41:00.004+08:00

I just finished the Gatsby Styling Dance Malaysian Finals. The dancers are college students that win a chance to represent Malaysia at the Grand Finals in Japan this February.

For me the arts are amazing. Whether I deal with music, dance, art, fashion, acting or anything that deals with the creative industry it always opens your eyes and teaches you something. Sometimes when I sit back and observe what is happening around me I catch a glimpse of something that I always knew and understood but actually seeing the life lesson happen right before your eyes just cements the fact and drives it home.

The kids that participated in the dance competition had one goal and that was to win. No one enters a competition to lose. In their warm up, preparation and rehearsal I watched how each of the eleven teams handled themselves. They each had to prepared 2 x 3 minute dance routines.

As they sat and waited for rehearsal some of the teams still had not completely figured out their choreography, others sat cooly talking among themselves and one of them was sat listening intently to music and obviously running the routine through his head, every once in a while doing intricate hand movements.

During rehearsals on stage I watched them go through their routines. Some just walked through preferring to keep their best moves for later (somehow we Asians love to do the hiding-the-best-for-last thing), some fumbled their way through and one powered his whole routine intimidating and impressing his audience.

After that it was the wait for the show. Backstage some were doing warm-ups, some were still touching up their routines and one after warm-up sat still listening intently going through his dance routine in his mind, oblivious to anything around him, staring straight ahead doing the same hand routines.

Well it was pretty obvious who won. Jackson Chua (the ONE person in my story) had every intention to win this competition. He came prepared with routines that had obviously been rehearsed a few hundred (if not thousand) times. Hand movement and facial impressions perfected to an art. Impeccable timing. His drive and focus were predominant throughout. Some of the others tried their best but I guess their best wasn’t good enough.

We all have different expectations and “best levels”. But if you go through life saying, “ok, that’s good enough” or “nevermind it’s ok” you won’t win, you won’t achieve your highest potential. Just ok is never enough. Your success is determined by how much effort you put in, how focused you are and how much YOU want it.

Like I’ve always appreciated that creative talent is God-given. You can try to sing, dance, draw all you want but if you don’t have it ,YOU DON’T HAVE IT. You can’t buy it, you can learn it to a certain extent and you definitely cannot force it. The arts are about feeling things around you, small observations magnified, then taking all this and being delivering it so that the audience feels it, believes it, relates to it. So it has to be perfection or no one will understand what you are trying to impart whether it be dancing, playing music, singing, acting, drawing, writing or anything else that communicates.

That is why when you watch a dancer with conviction, a passionate singer, a television program that moves you, a painting that takes you breath away you know that these are people who have taken the effort to practice, focused on what they have to do and successfully reached out and touched you.

God gives you the talent, what you do with it is up to you. You can put in the effort and hone the talent or don’t do anything and waste it. Magic happens when you make it.

Peace, Love and Respect

Tired and Tested

2010-11-11T02:03:00.010+08:00

Today I was at the International Symposium of the Malaysian Music Industry 2010. When I hear officials talk I feel like walking out, a feeling of despair overcomes me and I feel like some of us are fighting a losing battle. Everyone wants to proclaim they are the hero but they are just throwing problems which we have faced for years, and we know exist, back at us. Excuse me, we understand the problems, have offered the solutions, now PLEASE GO AND EXECUTE THE SOLUTIONS!! They aren’t on the ground, sleeves rolled up, they are sitting in ivory towers and listening to what people perceive are problems or personal frustrations and then coming to almighty conclusions… yeah, I’m TIRED and tested. Like Dato’ Aziz Bakar said there are some of us that are tired (jaded even) and feel like giving up but we don’t, we soldier on because it’s something we believe in, something our whole lives depend upon.

Ahmad Izham Omar changed my day. Here stood a person with very much the same beliefs as mine and the gumption to do it… make the difference. It’s when I meet people that share the same affinity for the business, fight the same battles and have aspirations going forward that reassures me that we have a chance (The only other thing that keeps me going is the talent singers, composers, that continues to emerge in our industry).

First and foremost if you’re thinking of doing something, do something different. You have to dare instead of trying to emulate someone else in your market. How many Raihan’s or Siti Nurhaliza’s can we have. You want to do Nasyid do it a different way. You want to do pop think out of the box. It’s always easy for people to shoot you down but hey, you never know until you try. The biggest inventions and success stories came from pipe dreams and fierce determination.

Secondly you need a concept, a sound that is you. Yes, the sound changes, evolves, matures with you and your listeners but you don’t try to capture 10 different markets and lose all. I’m talking about the albums with 10 producers, 5 different genres just so that you can enter every category there is on an award show or target every radio station that we have. You need to understand what is you, what is your strength and then just go for it. The Artistes that have had the best impact have stayed true to their sound…. M. Nasir, Sheila Majid, Sharifah Aini, Jamal Abdillah, Faizal Tahir, Yuna and Aizat.

Next is the want and the need to compete, to do better. We are a complacent bunch of people. We have things too easy. So we reach a certain degree we pat ourselves on the back, lean back and rest on our laurels. NO! The pedal to the metal all the time, if not someone is going to overtake you, someone will do better than you. In a time where change and innovation happens on a daily basis you cannot afford to sit back. The business is evolving all the time whether it is technology, people, tastes, marketing concepts so we need to keep up, change, move, shake things up.

In the wings we have the complainers…. Not enough local composition, not enough airplay, blame outsiders, want protection, dictating wants and the list goes on. “It’s like doing the Malaysian Squash Open and not allowing outsiders to compete”… yup, that’s right… Nicole David is the BEST IN THE WORLD.. not the best in Malaysia. Protectionism and dictating are not ways to improve in the long run. If people aren’t playing your songs it’s because they aren’t good enough. If people don’t choose you to perform it’s because you aren’t good enough. Yes the truth hurts but then you take it and make yourself better not wallow in self pity and wonder why.

Essentially if something doesn’t work, change, listen to what people are saying on the ground. If you come against a brick wall you can choose to bang your head against it, climb over it or choose another path. There are more ways to skin a cat. The choice is yours.

On centrestage we have the stars in the business. People who have been through it all, been down, gone up and still want to do more. They have staying power because they are constantly changing, updating. When they know things are not going their way they know how to dig deep and reinvent themselves, over and over again. They know what people want or need, even when the people don’t realize it. Yes, once again Izham pictured it well through the eyes of Henry Ford the car maker, “If I asked people what they wanted, they would say faster horses” (Nobody would have imagined a car in those days).

I’m not an innovator but I’m damn good at spotting an innovator. I’m an executor and my job is to help the innovator realize the dream. This is something I get immense joy and self-satisfaction from in making dreams come true. I see the dream, I feel the dream and I (and a whole bunch of others) make it happen. It doesn’t matter that my seat is not on the front row, just knowing that I helped to make a difference no matter where I sit is enough.

Yes sometimes it’s not the TRIED and tested otherwise eventually you become TIRED and tested. In today’s world there are no boxes, no faster horses just wide open space and spaceships, bicycles, jets and just about anything you can imagine.

A Magic Carpet Ride

2010-09-24T23:52:00.006+08:00

In our music business there are many unsung heroes. The most unsung in the process of music production is the arranger. Mostly because the general public has no clue as to the process of making music. Composers and Lyricist are the most recognized not to mention the Artiste who eventually sings the song.

The Composer draws the picture, the lyricist frames it but the arranger adds the colour and shading, bringing it to life. Yes it is a truly teamwork that makes the song. Firstly the melody is important and of course the lyricist tell a story in five minutes or less but arrangement is the hidden value that you cannot see but feel. It’s the factor that make the music give you the wonderous feeling or tears your heart out.

I am no musicians (unfortunately) but I have been around music long enough to understand it is a science that there is a psychology behind music making. Walt Disney has understood that in their movie making and they also have that same magic in their songs. Be it Colours of the Wind (Pocahontas), Go The Distance (Hercules), Beauty and the Beast (Beauty and Beast) or A Whole New World (Aladdin) the musical arrangement takes you on an emotional ride in just five minutes. You feel the struggle, the doubt, then the belief and finally the sense of euphoria.

This is the work of the arranger. Setting the pace of the song starting low in the verse, building up to a chorus, then taking you all the way with a bridge and climax and then finally pulling back your emotions leaving you feeling complete.

It is not only foreign song but local songs too. I have felt that emotion in songs arranged by Aubrey Suwito, Jenny Chin, Mac Chew and Ramli M.S. That hidden feeling that really shows how deep these people feel. They have truly given a part of themselves in the song. To have felt the song and understood how to impart that emotion musically, this is quite an amazing feat. How each and every instrument and sound plays a part in reaching out to us and draws us in emotionally.

The latest song to reach out and grab me is the song “Sejak Hadirmu”. The song is magical by nature maybe because I am such a spiritual person. On first impression the song (by Juwita Suwito) and the lyrics (by Habsah Hassan), both these people are special and have amazing God-given talents, seems to be a straight-out love song but I understood that this was a song giving praise to God and then the arrangement (by Aubrey Suwito) was what really captured my heart. It has that amazing emotional ride that can move you. It certainly moved me when I first heard it.

Music really reaches out and touches us whether we realize it or not, whether we want it to or not.

If you don’t believe me play a "Whole New World" and feel the euphoria… A New Fantastic Point of View…

Peace, Love and Respect,

Jenn

"Whole New World" (Composer : Alan Menken / Lyricist : Tim Rice)

PSYCHO-logy

2010-07-07T00:54:00.007+08:00

The World Cup is a lesson in psychological and mental strength. How does a team with so much talent and so many world class talents struggle to perform? How does a young team with not much experience on their side but plenty of self belief and positive energy power themselves to the semis? How does a team with all the hopes of their country and a dream team of players go out tamely?

For those of us who don’t play sports on a competitive level it is difficult to understand how focused, calm under pressure, self confident and motivated these sportsmen are. To overcome adversity, coming from behind, bad calls, crowds and the expectations of millions needs more than just going out there and playing your best. It also needs sheer mental and emotional strength.

Many people still do not understand the importance of sports psychology but I think mental strength separates the ordinary from the champions. So many people have the ability to play but when come from behind how do you dig deep within yourself to come back and win. It is the hardest thing to do to put mistakes behind you and focus on the positives. How do you when you’re facing an opponent stronger than you put it out of your mind so that you’re not lost even before you start? Staying focused, having the confidence and the concentration to overcome situations is something you need to be aware of.

Emotional strength - Pressure, stress and anxiety in a normal situation can consume you and play tricks on your mind. Learning to harness the pressure, adrenalin, nerves and fear is an important attribute so you can turn it into positive energy rather than letting those feeling overtake you and leave you feeling powerless and helpless. Keeping your anger in check, staying calm under pressure, learning to turn it on when you want to are also traits that a champion needs.

So sports is a science just like everything is. It is a combination of discipline, talent, mental and emotional toughness. The line between success and failure is very thin and players who are mentally strong and have the will to win stand a greater chance of tasting success than those simply believing in their physical and technical ability.

England suffered badly at the World Cup. They looked like a team in fear of losing, not running for the ball, bad passing, sluggish… these are all signs of defeatism… the weight and the expectations of their country hung heavy on their shoulders. Yet the young German team who hardly has the experience but went out and clinical tore apart their opponent… the same weight and expectation but a totally different approach… cool under pressure.

Teams and countries trying to build up championship teams and sports persons need to understand that sports psychology plays an important role in preparing sportsmen and women for the highly competitive world of sports.

Sometimes you got to be crazy to win!!

Peace, Love and Respect,

Jenn

Of Reflections, Reflexes and Rejuvenation

2010-06-13T22:32:00.007+08:00

Reflections…
Ok so the past five months have been a crazy swirl of adrenaline, burning the candle at both ends and all the ups and down… but hey it’s my life and I love it. And looking back at my last couple of posts they’ve been quite reflective and dark but they were subject close to my heart none the less. So ok this time round I have one grouse and one joy-of-living piece I’d like to share.

Reflexes….
Technology is amazing. You can download things at the speed of light, find a friend you thought died in the last World War, purchase something a world away, be someone else without people ever knowing who you really are and gives you the freedom of speech.

I just have to say that I am very active on the social network especially friendster, facebook, youtube, twitter, msn, gtalk, formspring … Social networking has taken the world by storm… it’s a wonderful way of keeping in touch, sharing and sometimes in this busy world if gives you a chance and reach out and touch someone instantaneously to offer support, a word, of encouragement. I however have a problem with this.

Whilst most people go about their day documenting their every move and every feeling which is fine and therapeutic for most, some however make a sport out of whacking people and complaining to no end. Freedom of speech and giving your opinion is fine as long as it is constructive criticism and not slapping people in the face with words. It is cowardly, unthinking and just plain rude to say things that are hurtful and lack common decency! It is tantamount to blind rage when you react without thinking. So many say... “If you don’t like it don’t read it! I have a right to say what I feel”. Hey! If you want to vent write it on a piece of paper and then screw it up and throw it away. It’ll hurt no one and you’ll walk away without someone thinking badly about you or at worst misconstruing your statement. Think before you speak, think before you write, think before you react. What's done cannot be undone.

RejuveNation…
My yearly pilgrimage after the madness of the first five months of the year is to Mataking Island located in the middle of the Celebes sea off the coast of Semporna, Sabah and close to Sipadan, Mabul and Kapalai. When you arrive there it’s like going home. The staff are friendly (after going there 3 times, hell, they even know my name) and the unbelievably beautiful blue sea/sky and the power soft white sand are things dreams are made of. The phone reception is bad and hey! you can’t take your phone diving …. that makes this pace Heaven!

I came from the culture of not being able to switch off, couldn't leave my job, afraid of going on holiday. The truth is life goes on happily without you and you fit in perfectly the same when you return.

Everyone needs a break. Good place, good company, good living. I advocate this anytime. I agree one should love their job but you also need to switch off from time to time to give yourself time to rejuvenate, recuperate and appreciate your life… after all you only live once so you should celebrate it!

Peace, Love and Respect as always,

Jenn

Happy Mother’s Day… I Love You… I Miss You…

2010-05-09T01:50:00.002+08:00

It’s been five year since my mother returned to God but there isn’t a day that goes by without me missing her. Since my father died when I was 15 my mother single handedly raised me. Strength, patience, concern and warmth that was mum.

We argued, we fought, we had difference of opinions, we loved, we laughed, we talked, we shouted but there was always love and respect which went both ways. When she was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer words could not express the devastation I felt. But mum remained a rock through it all still extending the strength and love that buoyed us through the ups and downs of life.

This is written to remind those with mothers that no matter what is said and done it is done with love. Nothing can replace this love as it is unconditional. Love her and tell her how you feel, never take her for granted…..

No matter how I try, I cannot help but feel sorry for myself for I’m the one that has lost…. If I could be half of what my mother was I would have achieved something in life.

In Memory of Ethel Margaret Peacock
28th. September, 1925 – 19th. March, 2005

I Love You, Mum
Uffa XOXO

Peace, Love and Respect,
Jenn

Goodbye to a Friend

2010-02-26T14:03:00.006+08:00

Writing is therapy…. Blogging is good for your soul… that’s what I’ve been told. If it is so, today I want to be selfish and be strong for myself.

In my life funerals have been a negative feeling that I’ve always avoided. My father and mother funerals’ where the ones, I of course, had to see all the way. Yes, death is evitable for us all. Yes, everyone goes to a better place. Yes, God loves us all…. yet for those left behind parting is such sweet sorrow.

Koi (Mohd. Shukor Tahir) was in my Malaysian Idol 1 team of 2004. Being Saggitarians with a joy for life we bonded almost instantly… and because I used to lecture everyone, he called me mother (I have many titles in different circles – sifu, cikgu, mother, jtho). Through the years that title stuck with him and we became firm friends. Not acquaintances, not business associates, not mentor and protégé but friends. We shared the same likes/dislikes, we share the same sense of humor…. I treated him like my son and he treated me like a mother.

And though we haven’t really known each other for very long I always knew that Koi was constantly looking for acceptance from other people and peace within himself…. which I know he had with me... which I know he had with my team. Thoughtful, considerate, fun loving, opinionated, never forgot birthdays and a roving soul. That was Koi.

Perhaps it was because I feel that it was too soon, perhaps it’s because there were so many things left unsaid, perhaps it was too sudden. But the reality is, he’s gone and we are all left to grieve our loss and trying to come to terms with what has happened.

Sayu terpisah
Hikayat indah kini hanya tinggal sejarah
Berhembus angin rindu
Begitu nyamannya terhidu wangian kasihmu

Hujan lebat mencurah kini
Bagaikan tiada hentikaulah
Laguku kau irama terindah
Tak lagi kudengari

Kau pergi.. pergi..

Once again life has humbled me and taught me something new, a feeling of losing someone that shouldn’t be gone before me, that has so much life to live. But the choice is not our… it never is.

Goodbye my friend… I won’t look back now… I’m going to close the door but I’ll NEVER forget… and when the time comes I WILL remember….

Peace, Love and Respect forever,
Jenn

26 years and Counting

2010-02-16T12:43:00.004+08:00

After months of not updating my biodata I decided to pull it out and add what I had done last year and the beginning of this year. After all I’ve been nagging the rest of the team to do it so yeah, a poor attempt at leadership by example (Grin). I make sure that everyone in showbusiness does this because after a while (2,000 shows later) you cannot remember what you did where and who did what. This is the only testament to your work (apart from pictures which I NEVER have time to take when I’m working) that you can ever have.

This is when I realize this is my 26th. year in the business and what a ride it’s been. I’ve met so many people, done so many things and learnt so much over this time (and still continue to do so). And have watched 3 generations of Artistes and musicians pass… it really is amazing.

The story is always the same…. talent and unrelenting passion, …. From Sharifah Aini, Alleycats, Alphonso Soliano to Sudirman, Khadijah, Mike Bernie, Freddie Fernandez to Search, Lefthanded, Ramli MS, Aziz Bakar to Ella, Ziana to Sheila Majid, Siti Nurhaliza, Mac Chew, to Innuendo, Raihan, Tony Fernandes, Ahmad Izham Omar to Meet Uncle Hussain, Hujan, Bunkface. The list is endless and always inspiring.

I have served them all without fear or favour because of their talent, because of their passion… when you work around it, it drives you and makes you want to do your best. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Recently I was given the chance, yet again, to do something different. It was indeed an honour to be chosen to work on the “Konsert Satu Suara” project in Istana Budaya, working together with the next generation of talent, Aizat and Faizal Tahir. This is a new era of talent who are not only singers and performers but composers and musicians in their own right. I can only say one word… supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

They both have a very different styles but share the same passion, the same hope.

With the added pressure of working with Istana Budaya… the show was by no means perfect but we all knew the expectations and whatever it is everyone gave their best… that sometimes is the most important thing. We are all not perfect, we are all still learning…

On the last day the end of the show … I gave everyone, especially Aizat, sorry :), and myself a shock…. I cried, big time… that was how much pressure I felt doing the show… that’s how perfect you want the outcome to be… that’s how much it matters… even after 26 years, even after 2,000 shows….

That’s why I say sometimes people don’t understand the type of pressures the Artistes, Musicians and Production Crew go through. They may have had a personal crisis, they may not feel well but no matter what when the curtain goes up the show MUST go on….. and thru the 26 years I’ve seen it all… After all we only get one gratification… the applause of the audience and the happy faces that go home after the show… NOTHING else matters.

The Show must go on! I'll face it with a grin! I'm never giving in! On with the show!

Peace, Love and Respect always,
Jenn

Square Pegs, Round Holes….

2009-12-23T11:50:00.004+08:00

“Nothing great in the world has been accomplished without passion.”

When talking to friends I always hear complaints about people they work with that do not complete work properly, do not go the distance, do not care. It got me thinking that I am lucky to be doing something that I AM passionate about, I BELIEVE in. I am also passionate about my photography and diving. I back a football team that I support with a passion.

Because I am passionate about what I do therefore I will probably ACHIEVE more than a person who doesn’t care.

I’m not saying that I didn’t have to try something to find out if I liked it or not. I tried marketing but found out that music was my passion. I tried sky diving but figured out that scuba diving was my passion. Passion and purpose go hand in hand. When you discover your PURPOSE, you will normally find it’s something you’re tremendously passionate about.

Recognizing what you love is NOT enough. It isn’t passion without commitment, without intimacy, without self-giving… that is why passion is that one step further.

In Malaysia we grow a culture of square pegs in round holes and inevitably the “tidak apa la / chin chai lor“ attitude. People doing things they really don’t WANT to be doing but rather NEED to be doing. Sometimes pushed by the necessity to survive, sometimes pushed by others, sometimes just being unfocused. But they live with complacency and have a tendency to accept things…no reaction, no questions asked, no reasons given… I find a strong lack of passion missing in Malaysians in general…. the want to do more, the need to make a difference, the pride of place.

We should constantly need to..... want to strive for better, reach higher, achieve more but this is impossible without passion. We need that fire that comes from inside to propel us to accomplish things that we only dream about.

I'm not talking about just work I'm talking about everything we do in our lives.... work, love, life should be passionate...

“If there is no passion in your life, then have you really lived? Find your passion, whatever it may be. Become it, and let it become you and you will find great things happen FOR you, TO you and BECAUSE of you.”

For everyone my wish for you is that you find your passion…..

Peace, Love and Respect,
Jenn

Of Flashing Lights and Sirens...

2009-12-09T01:17:00.015+08:00

This is a subject close to my heart. My office is near Hospital Besar Kuala Lumpur so seeing ambulances with sirens blaring is a normal occurrence. Also because it is near the Mahameru highway and the Tun Razak flyover traffic jams are also a normal thing.

Now if you see an ambulance hurriedly coming down the road, sirens blaring what should you do :

a) Step on the accelerator. The ambulance will NEVER catch up with you;

b) Wait for the ambulance to pass and then step on the accelerator and follow it down the road it’ll help you get to your destination faster;

c) Just drive normally it’ll avoid you and after all, even if it passes you, it can’t go anywhere it's already jam;

d) “Aiya! Bet the ambulance driver is rushing to eat lunch!! Who cares you think you’re the only one that hasn’t eaten ah?”

ALL OF THE ABOVE is what most Malaysian drivers do.

Now put yourself in the ambulance. You have a family member that’s dying and in need of immediate hospital care, then you understand why you need to yield and get out of the way. In situations like this time is of the essence. I’ve been there with my father who had suffered a stroke, his heart had stopped and he was turning blue. The sense of helplessness is alarming. You can only but pray and hope that traffic moves faster.

My father survived the ordeal but I learnt and invaluable lesson which I hope to pass on to anyone reading this. PLEASE when you see an ambulance approaching get out of the way move over, let the ambulance through…. Someone’s life may depend on it.

Thank you. Peace, Love and Respect,

Jenn

2009-12-05T00:48:00.007+08:00

There goes the last of the good men. Tiger Woods has had an affair *gasp* and *shock horror*. What has the world come too. Is life full of escape, backspace and undo buttons?

I don’t want to go on a rant but I find guys stop maturing at fifteen and they always think with their d*@ks. Emotionally guys are the weaker sex. Never satisfied with what they have. When the girlfriend/wife tries to communicate you either get -
a) The Silent treatment;
b) Code Red : All systems shut down (sleep); or
c) I’m going to turn to another woman who understands me.
And if they have had enough time to think about it the whole issue becomes your fault or problem, “You drove me to do it!”. …ESCAPE button….

Don’t get me wrong. I LOVE men. They are adorable, helpless, charming (when they want to be) but sometimes they can be downright self absorbing, selfish, pompous. Sometimes I think the woman is at fault. In the beginning of relationships they bend over backwards to please, give up part of their life, pamper the man…. then when the focus turns over to the kids (who need attention 25 hours a day) or work, the man feels he’s lost the attention of the woman. You can’t win…. BACKSPACE key…

The problem with relationships is that you are NEVER sure of the other person. You’re always questioning, “Do they love me!”. You can only be sure of how YOU feel. Women ask this 200 times of their men. Not because they don’t trust you but it’s because they want to hear you say it, stoopid!! But then again 200 times is a biiiiiit much. Moral of the story - Everyone needs to remember people aren’t mind readers, sometimes you need to show how you feel. There is NO harm in once in a while showing affection, showing appreciation… people constantly crave response…

We are always tested in life. When you have a relationship/marry someone they are not perfect and neither are you. Then comes along someone who has that missing component that you miss and the more you see it the more you miss it…. Then if your relationship is not strong you begin to find fault in the person you’re with and you find every possible excuse to call it quits. Yes, unfortunately, that has become the ‘name of the game’…. UNDO button

Before people worked harder at their relationships perhaps because they were not under so much pressure to perform at work AND constant communication (mobile phone, internet, etc.). Priorities in life have changed so much. Sad but true…

Love is simple and uncomplicated. We expect too much from each other. The support should be equal, the responsibility should be equal and the respect should be equal. No one is lesser than the other…. No one loves the other more….

Yeah… one day my prince will come…..

Peace, love and respect,
Jenn

YOU-nique

2009-11-30T02:53:00.008+08:00

It’s been a hard month so we took a break to Bangkok (13-15th. November, 2009) … and it was a great trip. Good company, Good shopping (not enough money :)) all in all a hilarious time. Life should be like this… work hard, play hard. Then you get a balance.

Then straight into the Islamic Fashion Festival (23 – 25th. November, 2009). This show is interesting, different and should be given international recognition as it is truly away for people to see that you can be fully covered yet chic, dress elegantly or even have style with panache. And although it’s grueling, sometimes you just feel like dying but enjoy working like this. I got to work with Dato’ Mahadzir Lokman and Dato’ Yasmin Yussoff after a long time, both professionals at what they do and we have yet to find emcees that can take their place for protocol events such as these.

(Picture courtesy of : Nadiah Ramli my talented photographer daughter)

Nadiah came by to get more shooting experience which is good for her but unfortunately felt rather sick on the morning of the second day so she went to see our trusty family doctor (Dr. Shanta Oomen) and went home to sleep it off. Nowadays you just can’t take risks when you don’t feel well… GO TO THE DOCTOR!!

After the last show Jay and Jue tried to get me to go to dinner before waiting for the post mortem meeting but I decided not too and whilst waiting for two hours kept on getting sms’es asking me about food. Yes, I was hungry… but NO I was not going back before the meeting. Only to find that in the hotel room were Koi, Itcha, Jue and Jay… food and a present (for my birthday). Hahaha.. so that’s why they tried to get me to eat sooner... Sorry guys trying to con a Saggitarian is like, impossible… they either read you and con you back or are completely oblivious to reading between the lines because they’re busy concentrating on something else!! But my heartfelt thanks and love to all of you.

(Picture was taken with my new Tamron 10-24 lens... ilike)

Yeah it’s been one hell of a November.. busy, fun, reflective and thankful.

After OD’ing over fashion and mixing with the beautiful people the whole month of November, it got me thinking. Everyone always wonders why they aren’t as good looking, why they aren’t as rich, why they aren’t so lucky… don’t wonder. Each and everyone of us is unique, each of us has a ability or combination of abilities, each of us has a weakness, each of us is beautiful in some way or another, each of us is ugly in some way or another…. Just like our fingerprints are unique so are we as individuals…… God IS Great!

When you want to feel sorry for yourself, wonder why life is treating you badly or wondering why you aren’t given chances… pick-up the newspaper and read any page. When you read about people losing homes in floods or fires, losing love ones to a tragedy, have no food to eat, are innocent victims of war, human greed and inhuman conditions… counting your blessing and give praise, if you think your life is bad… think again there is ALWAYS someone worse off than you.

P/S : I rescued a Zebra from the shelf in Parkson this month... What have YOU done?

Meet Stripe.... he is an efficient communicator. He can work a blackberry and send out e-mails via computer. He likes eating at chilis!!

Peace, Love and Respect,

Jenn

Don’t Run Away, Baby, It’s Only Life….

2009-11-18T14:43:00.016+08:00

The last two months have gone by in a blur, no time to blog….

Let’s see. Hari Raya came and went but rather than spending it staring at four walls I decided this year I would do something about it. Not that I didn’t wish to celebrate Adil Fitri but I always believe the kids should go back to Singapore (their real kampung) and spend time with the family there, where there is the spirit of Raya. So I packed my bags and celebrated by diving in Manado (September 19 - 24, 2009)

And what a celebration of life. Manado is a gorgeous divesite on the northern tip of Sulaiwesi, a 4 hour flight from Kuala Lumpur. In pristine condition I would rate this the best wall diving I have seen. As if the joy of diving were not enough we were bestowed the luck of seeing a pod of dolphins one morning, a pod of pilot whales the next and to top it off a mother and baby sperm whale (a rare sighting which even the divemasters there were excited to see). Although all of them were close surface sightings it is an exhilarating feeling to have the chance to see these majestic animals in the wild.

Next came the challenge of the century…Gen’s Wedding (October 10, 2009). Weddings are scary. They are a once in a lifetime event for the couple and their families. And of course they want perfection because the event means so much to them. What more it was a garden wedding in the middle of rainy season. So the wedding planner has sleepless nights, cold sweat, butterflies flitting around in the stomach. 20 AIMs would be easier than this. I guess a number of us prayed hard enough and the wedding was a success… Thank you GOD. So maybe it’s not as bad a 20 AIMs after all.

After that it was the final diving trip of the season (October 19-21, 2009) with Acis, Sheila, Shah, Intan and Siti. It was my first time leading a trip out but it was fun. Company was good, Daniel of Sealantis proved to be a great guide and storyteller; and Abbas is the best boatman ever. I’ve always enjoyed Tioman, it feels like home. Although this year the visibility has been dismal this trip was the best viz I had seen all year and although I have been countless times to these divesite they still provided excitement and wonder. Labas and all it’s swin throughs, Tiger Reef is gorgeous when the current isn’t ripping and Batu Malang is always a beautiful sight/site. Yes, diving is definitely my second calling!

Back to life, back to reality. Just when you think you’ve done it all, you really haven’t. The Malaysian International Fashion Week 2009 (November 4-8, 2009) provided non-stop action... first time doing 18 shows over 5 days, first time working a project with only Jay and Jue. At the beginning of the project it felt like a mountain to climb, with us standing at the foot and looking up at the summit. Tiring, testing, taxing but challenging and the euphoric feeling of achievement erases everything. I LOVE my work without a doubt.

(Picture courtesy of Nadiah Ramli, my extremely talented photographer daughter)

Life is ever changing, ever evolving. Over the last six months a road that I thought was going to end has proved that it has a continuation and a new journey. That has been given to me by the new team, a new breath of life; as much as they turn to me for guidance I have learnt that teaching people means teaching yourself. They push me to challenge my ability and myself once again.

Yes life is putting the pedal to the metal and living it to the maximum, passionately whether it be work or play, then only you can say you’ve lived.

Peace, Love and Respect,

Jenn

Emmanuel Adebayor..Serena Williams…Kanye West… Role Model Responsibility

2009-09-15T01:36:00.006+08:00

Just because you’re under pressure it doesn’t give you the right to rant on other people when things don’t go your way neither do you rub it in someone’s face when it does! The weekend saw the ugly side of famous personalities who are supposed “role model” to the younger generation losing it in front of millions of people.

Scenario #1
English Premier League - Manchester City vs Arsenal….
Adebayor ex Arsenal player ran the length of the pitch to taunt and antagonize the Arsenal away supporters after scoring City's third goal. Are the Arsenal fans to blame for throwing things at him and in the process hurting a Man City steward… I think not. Adebayor had earlier appeared to kick his former team-mate Robin van Persie in the face.

So the Arsenal fans never showed their appreciation? Hey FYI respect is earned… the fans always loved and respected Bergkamp, Henry, Ljunberg, Reyes, Pires, Viera

Scenario #2
US Open Tennis – Serena Williams vs Kim Clijsters….
With Clijsters on the brink of victory, defending champion Williams was called for a foot-fault on a second serve to go match point down.
Astounded by the verdict, Williams immediately saw red and threateningly marched up to the official. She waved her racket ominously and thrust the ball into the lineswoman’s face as she launched into a tirade. “I swear to God I’m… going to take this (bleeping) ball'' and stuff "it down your (bleeping) throat, you hear that? I swear to God,” Williams told the line-judge.
Having already received a warning earlier in the match for smashing a racket, Williams was handed an automatic point penalty for “unsportsmanlike conduct,” giving Clijsters the match.

Scenario #3
Video Music Awards – Taylor Swift vs Kanye West….
The presenters announce Swift as winner of Best Female Video. She goes up to stage and begins her acceptance speech. Suddenely West rushes onstage, grabs her microphone and lets loose an outburst on behalf of singer Beyonce Knowles, who had lost out in that category. “Taylor, I'm really happy for you, and I'm gonna let you finish, but Beyonce had one of the best videos of all time,"

What in the world was going on in the minds of these role models. They are being watched by millions of people, they are respected personalities (earning insane amounts of money) in their professions and they go on an inexplicable, unforgivable rant and then apologize half-heartedly saying their emotions got the better of them but they still believed that they were right.

Disgraceful and inexcusable that’s all I can say. With the number of kids that watch these programs and look-up to these people as role models they should be severely punished. Show some responsibility!

They have no idea what the repercussions of their actions are. Inciting crowds, causing fights and worse, showing people that you can just DO what you want WHENEVER you feel. Yes having your own opinion is great but showing patience is greater…. After all things don’t go your way ALL of the time… LIVE with it!

One-Malaysian-ness

2009-09-09T14:39:00.004+08:00

Yesterday I went to the Post Office to invest in Amanah Saham 1Malaysia.

With form filled, Mykad photostated and money in hand I waited patiently. As my number was called and the person behind the couner checked my form they looked intently at me and asked what my race was.... hahaha.... cruel joke.... Here we are trying to recognize every culture under the Malaysian sun and happily categorizing people... and here I am, poor un-categorizable persun I am, trying hard to explain that I beong in the "dan lain-lain" (others) column as I do not fit the criteria of the rest. Yes... Race : Others.

The best part there was NO "dan lain-lain" so I waited for them to find a recent letter they received to tell them what category code number I belong to. Finally the computer accepted me...

I belong to a minority race. Laughable at best. No I do not want to stir racial tension. No I do not want to fight for my Irish-Australian-Chinese-Malaysian rights. But yes I want to be a part of bangsa Malaysia where there is no racial segregation.

So "dan lain-lain" it is until the day we truly acheive one-Malaysian-ness.....

Peace, Love and Respect,
Jenn

1Malaysia... Brave New World?

2009-09-09T14:15:00.003+08:00

52 years and another Prime Minister later we follow another dream called 1Malaysia.

I’m having trouble understanding the concept although in essence I love and support the idea. It is a call for acceptance, to recognized and take into consideration the needs of every ethnic group. We would be having to take a holiday every other day, speak 200 different languages and understand a myriad of cultures, which mind you also change with the times.

Tolerance… will never lead to true unity. The meaning of the word is enough to make you cringe… forbearance, endure, acceptance…. doesn’t all this point to a capacity, a limit. We need to get to a point where we don’t even think about race, break down all the barriers and take that step towards being true Malaysians, become one nation.

And what does 1Malaysia have to do with the tagline “Rakyat didahulukan, Pencapaian diutamakan”? (People first, Achievement Now) this NEEDS to be a maxim for the government not the people!! We don’t need to understand that the needs of the people go first and that meritocracy rules. This IS what WE the people have always wanted anyway (unless you are greedy, selfish or uneducated).

Before the National Anthem required an official function before it was sung. Why? Why can’t it be sung everywhere? Football game? Cinema? Before any event? Where there is alcohol served? In a church? In a mosque? WHY NOT? When we play the national anthem and we can moved people to feel proud to be Malaysia, shed a tear understanding the lyrics, … does it matter where they are, who they are, what their background is? Negaraku never fails to move me….

Like as in all things understanding comes with education. If we want our children to throw rubbish in a dustbin, cover their mouths when they yawn, get up and offer a seat to someone who needs, respect their elders it needs to be taught when they are born and continue right through their school life not at primary school level when they already have bad habits and preconceived ideas. They need positive role models from their parents to their teachers. The nationalistic spirit needs to be instilled to a point where it is runs on auto and comes without thought.

I never think of my friends as Indian, Chinese or Malay. This has been true since school until this very day. We are friends because we share the same aspirations, interests, uncanny sense of humor and enjoy each other’s company. Creed, colour and race bears no significance and only passion and the desire to do the best you can for yourself, your family, your country that allows you to work with others to achieve. I’m sure Nicol David, Tony Fernandes, Lee Chong Wei, Karamjit Singh and others who have achieved the Malaysian Dream never thought of themselves as anything but Malaysians wanting to succeed.

It is a brave new world… we take the step to become one... this all starts with you and me… we make the difference no matter how big or small the contribution there is no such thing as insignificance in effort….

I have a dream…
No oppression, No discrimination, No segregation

Negaraku

Tanah tumpahnya darahku,

Rakyat hidup

bersatu dan maju

Rahmat bahagia

Tuhan kurniakan,

Raja kita

selamat bertakhta

Rahmat bahagia

Tuhan kurniakan

Raja kita

selamat bertakhta

Peace, Love and Respect,

Jenn

Go Gunners!

2009-08-17T21:50:00.004+08:00

It's been a good last week...

Back to the gym after a 3 week break. Feels good to be back.. tiring... but good!

Watched "Setem" and I would rate it as the best Malaysian movie I've watched to date. Great story line, great acting, great script. Not your typical Malay movie... overall enjoyable.

MTV World Stage was also a fun outing. Good bands, I loved the stage, lighting and having good company helps.

The cherry on top that all is Arsenal winning their opening match away to Goodison Park against Everton. Yup the Gunners wupped the Toffees 6-1. Amazing job.. they played like the Arsenal of old. I sure hope that they can keep it up, if they can they're unbeatable. Cesc Fabregas, Robin Van Persie, Andrei Arshavin and Almunia have a long season ahead but I'm looking forward to it.

And so another GOOD week passes...Peace, Love and respect,

Jenn

The weekend

2009-08-10T11:06:00.007+08:00

Another weekend passes by...

Went down to Tioman with the Marine Monkees which is always good for a laugh. The Tioman ferry ride was like hell thanks to extremely choppy water and a bunch of foreignors who did not want the aircon on in an enclosed ferry! So therefore - Enclosed ferry + No Aircon = Stuffy = No Oxygen = Nausea. So four of us sat outside and nursed out nausea for the last 30 minutes of the ride. Lucily no one fed the fish...

If Malaysia wants to put themselves on the Tourist Map they damn well have to do something about they conservation. Firstly Tioman was so badly shrouded with haze we couldn't even see it from a distance. Then there is SO much construction going on that there hasn't been a day when the visability underwater has been good in three months!! Last year during early October I went diving and the visibility was gorgeous. Imagine being able to see underwater for 25-30 metres and yes the marine life is a sight to behold. The marine life is still (so far) abundant in Tioman but you can't see further than 5 - 7 metres which is sad.

But all said and done I had a good weekend diving... yes a BAD day diving is still better than a good day at work!

Congratulations Chelsea on a job well done for winning the season opening Charity Shield... looking forward to the new season.

Peace, Love and Respect,
Jenn

The moon represents my ...

2009-08-05T00:11:00.011+08:00

It was an amazing sight a full moon during the light of the evening lighting up an expanses of ocean. Serene, beautiful, awe-inspiring… and as we sat and watched we suddenly realized that it was in the perfect position to have a bit of fun.

You leave the marine monkees top side (not underwater and with no diving gear) this is what you get a crazy, zany look at what the moon represents…. monkey see, monkey do. The girls did the posing the guys did the camera work. So here it is a different view of the moon… To celebrate 40 years of a manned lunar landing I decided that it would be the appropriate time to put out these pictures... Neil Armstrong eat your heart out!

The moon represents my ...

Ball @ Annie / Bunny Tail @ Ee Ming / Moon Goddss @ Nell / Dragon Ball @ Jenn

Pictures taken on Mabul Island, SABAH on Dec 12, 2008 at 05:45pm

Football Season is now OPEN!

2009-08-04T01:06:00.013+08:00

Ah... football season is finally back.. and just in time too Saturdays and Sundays are never the same without the EPL (I'm sure all the mamaks feel the same way!).

There's something extremely bonding about a bunch of people that support the same club and the friendly (sometimes not) rivalry against opposition teams.

I'm one of those crazy people that believes you must experience things at least once (and I'm ONLY talking about the good stuff NO drugs, alcohol, cigarettes and other vices that shall remain nameless). So a couple of years ago I decided to, after AIM, pack my bags and make my pilgrimage to the Emirates, home of my team Arsenal, for the last home game of the season. As luck would have it, it was a Premier League A++ match, london derby, Chelsea vs Arsenal no less! It was a match where it would decide the outcome of the season. Chelsea win they win the champion-ship, Arsenal win Manchester United take the crown.

If you are a football fan you should save up and make the trip to see at least one match on home ground... it is magic.

The day before I did the Emirates Tour and did all the cheesy stuff, sat in the VIP stands, sat in the team box, experienced coming out of the tunnel, see the team dressing room and the outrageous hydro spa and then spent every cent I had in the Arsenal Shop.... but all in all an experience not to be missed.

On the day of the match as I watched as the stadium filled with 60,355 people 90% of these were home fans and there was an electrifying air of excitement. Fans were all dressed in their colour with scarves, cheering, singing and when you hear the English Premier League Song played and the announcement of your home team the roar of the stadium is unbelievable.. it is a feeling of euphoria.

So all you football fans dust off your scaves, buy your 2009/10 jerseys or wear your old ones and hang on to your hats... the English Premier League is back in action!

Still Searching...

2009-08-02T16:31:00.014+08:00

I have the utmost respect for Search the 'otai' rock band that I have known ALL my entertainment life. From Hard Rock Cafe (ciplak at Taman Tun) to Kathy's Lounge to their amazing concerts to their many changes of band members from to Hiliary (John) to Man Kidal to Kid to back to Hiliary and from Nasir to Yan and back.

But last weekend I was helpless to do anything as I looked upon a show that was not befitting of a legendary act. There are no words that can express the disappointment that not only I felt, but everyone that was there felt. You can click the link below and literally feel the disappointment :
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=64016573884

Disappointment followed by disbelief that anyone would want to do a show like this and finally feeling sorry for Search .

Before I go on I would like to make one thing clear CELCOM should be APPLAUDED for sponsoring events such as these and for showing support to the local music scene. Let me just say that sponsoring a big white or Chinese act is sometimes so much easier and almost always garners a bigger crowd. So people with their small minded attitudes who like to blame everyone because they are dissatisfied think again NO SPONSOR, NO SHOW!! Thank you CELCOM.

The sound left much to be desired (to be polite) with what looked like no thought put into the lighting, pyrotechnics and LED screen graphics. Everything appeared to be disjointed including the choice of songs and the band itself.

Firstly the band got stuck outside with traffic the parking was three rows deep on both sides of the road… who’s fault was this! Leaving only one lane for moving traffic and God help all those people that living in the Plaza Damansara area (near the science centre) cars were parked total blocking all entrances... totally no regard for anyone.

This is a case of someone who thinks that a show is easy to do and is about slapping a whole bunch of things and effects together. A show is everything from parking to security to hospitality to seating to production. One section fails and everyone gets it that’s why it is a balancing act which requires a master juggler.

That is every show. Conceptualized, planned and executed according to the plan, everything has a reason and even if something fails a Plan B has already been thought off.

- Due to a bunch of problems the band appeared to have NO mood to perform
- The audio mix was horrendous
- Amy was singing way off key (was this the monitors)
- Nice pyrotechnic effects in ALL the wrong places and absolutely NO meaning
- Repertoire that left most of the audience wondering
- LED screen playing back graphics that have not been thought of

Meanwhile I still haven’t found what I’m looking for…..

Shout! Shout! Let It All Out...

2009-07-28T01:50:00.007+08:00

A new venture is always a breath of fresh air. That was what the Shout! Awards was all about. A new way of showing appreciation and recognizing new, exciting talent. Times are ever-changing and to stay on the cycle we must adapt and embrace the change too.

So many people have said so many things about the show. Some bad, some doubtful, mostly good.. but everything has a learning curve. I ONLY wish that more people would have the faith and join. Again THIS IS NOT ABOUT WINNING OR LOSING... this is about showcasing and recognizing talent that exists in all facets of the entertainment business. It is our wish that this recognition will drive people to do more, do better, do different, do daring, do fresh, do new, do exciting..... in this business we NEED this so badly but yet so many dare not leave the safety of what they think sells. EMBRACE the change.

The other thing is that everyone seems afraid of is to "compete" (or what they deem as competition)... I'm MORE afraid of competing with myself than other people. The pressure I put on myself to succeed is 10 million gazillion time greater than the pressure I feel from anywhere/one else. I like the friendly "competition" I get from my seniors, peers and juniors... this is what keeps me alive... keeps me on my toes. I'm not saying that this IS a competition but how DO you judge your work and progress without exams, competitons, comparisons. Come on guys embrace the CHANGE.

Again my inspiration comes from the people I work with and the people I work for... when camera and production crews work until 4am; Artiste patiently wait for their turn to perform; editors make changes long after everyone has gone to bed; when sound engineers have mixed enough to go deaf; coordinators bite their nails to worry about security, artistes, crowd, food... HOW can ANYONE believe this is done for the benefit of a select few. Everyone is not thinking about winning or losing everyone is thinking about GIVING THEIR BEST.. that is the spirit of the games. As I work with younger teams and old friends I look forward to the new challenge ... and I embrace THE change.

I hope that next year there will be more support to help us make the change and the difference. However slow a process it maybe we still need to embrace the change.

TO ALL THE TEAMS WORKING BEHIND THE SCENES ON THE SHOUT! AWARDS WE HAVE ALL MADE ONE SMALL STEP TOWARDS MAKING A DIFFERENCE.... THANKS!

FOR THOSE THE ARTISTE AND CELEBRITIES THAT CAME OUT PERFORMED, PRESENTED, DRESSED-UP TO CELEBRATED THE CHANGE... THANKS!

TO THOSE THAT DARE TO DO (AND JUST BECAUSE YOU DARE TO DO) WE SALUTE YOU... THANKS!

Quote : When you are through changing, you are through. ~Bruce Barton

Peace, Love and Respect,

Jenn

Originally posted on Facebook Notes on Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 1:13pm

So I say thank you for the music, for giving it to me.....

2009-07-28T01:47:00.008+08:00

I'm lucky... I have a job I love and someone pays me to do it.... my only regret is that I never have time to thank every single person on all the shows that I work.

You would think that after doing this for 24 years one it would be a walk in the park but I never fail to have an anxiety attack before ALL my shows... to make sure you get the concept and performers right... then you have to execute it like no one has ever seen before... it is a task that no one can do alone.

I am blessed to be working with some of the best people in the business. I remember when I was 18 years old I saw a t-shirt that read, "How do you fly like an eagle when you're surrounded by turkeys"... and this is something that is so true. Organizers sometimes think that they pay one consultant or professional and, "Viola!!" all problems are solved. It doesn't work that way, we all have to be eagles to be able to fly high... it only takes one turkey to kill all the eagles. That's why I believe in NO compromise because we all want the best therefore all the bases are covered.... from stage to sound and light to performers to musicians to logistics to seating to promotions to toilet cleaner... all the jobs are just as important as each other... no one is more important or less important. Diligence...Patience... Understanding... Teamwork... Conscientiousness... Passion.....is needed in all areas.... going the extra mile is what makes the difference between normal and excellence.

Therefore I salute all the teams I work with... it makes my work a joy... and just like anyone else we crave the acceptance and approval of the audience of our creative work. If they approve or have enjoyment... that is what we strive for... that is enough to fulfill our self satisfaction.

The other part of this puzzle is the actual performer. We provide the platform for them to do things they would never dream of.... fly in the air...sing with a orchestra.... perform with someone else... when they understanding that we do our best to enhance their performance they in turn give their best. After all when the curtains go up the show is in their hands. So yes, I salute them too for providing magical performances.

And then we have to remember that we all have to pace ourselves to peak on the night of the show... not during soundcheck.... not during full dress rehearsals.... but ON THE NIGHT.

Think about it.... a gorgeous stage lit up by nice lighting, enhance by video screens with exquisite musical arrangements being played by wonderful musicians being mixed perfectly by a sound engineer and a talented singer comfortable with hearing themselves on stage monitors... yes it takes THAT much to entertain an audience. What are the odds that you can get so many things right without professionals in all those jobs and in more that those areas..

Stage designer, Stage Contractor, Video screens, Equipment and operators, Lighting designer and Operator, Music Arranger, Sound Engineer, Monitor Engineer, Stage Hands, Stage Managers, Musical Instrument Supplier, Artiste.... and the list goes on....

Even when I step back and look at the bigger picture it never fails to scare me .... at the recent AIM awards we had 100 Dikir Baraters, 70 National Service Trainees, 200 Hujan and Meet Uncle Hussain Fans, 25 Musicians, 35 Dancers... 50 Artistes... but all it takes is to for one to Artiste choke up when they are nominated, or win an award or have a chance to perform on a stage they never dreamed of ...that's how much the recognition means to them AND this is what drives me (personally) to continue to strive to do my best... this is what makes you want to do it all over and over again....

So I say thank you for the music.... for giving it to me.....

P/S : This is dedicated to my dream team : Ady, Akira Yamauchi, Alvin Koh, Atie, Faizal Zulkifli, Gerard Yeo, Itcha, Jay Jeffrey, Jim Teh, Ju, Koi, Mas Ayie, Mas Yeos, Nanee Surya, Nicole Poo, Ramli M.S., Rich Hamid, Sharina and Steve Ho...

Originally posted on Facebook Notes on Monday, May 4, 2009 at 3:41am

25 Things

2009-07-28T01:43:00.001+08:00

25 Things (Random about me)

1 - My kids mean the world to me.
2 - I’d give my right hand to be able to play the guitar properly… wait a minute without my right hand I’d be unable to play the guitar!!
3 - I wanted to be a pilot… I HATE maths… I HATE physics… I guess NOT
4 - I am NEVER late… thanks to my military styled dad and mom
5 - I LOVE the sea.. the sight, sound and smell just turns me on.
6 - If I could change anything… I WOULDN’T!
7 - I REALLY do miss my mum and dad…
8 - If a psycho killer came to me and said, “Sing or die!!”… I’d say, “Kill me NOW!”… I CANNOT sing to save my life..
9 - I’ve had a good life and for that I count my blessings DAILY
10- I DON’T dance… I have 2 left feet.
11- Whilst on the subject of feet… mine are like a hobbit’s (minus the hair la)… helped by the fact that I HATE wearing shoes
12- DON'T invite me to a fine dining dinner… I am an Olympic speed drinker and eater.
13- I cry at ALL movies… happy, sad, animated, comedy…
14- I’m a creature of habit… I go to a restaurant.. I read the menu for the 500th time.. comment on how nice the dishes look… and proceed to order the same thing for the 500th time!
15- I DON’T drive… if I cannot afford a Mercedes Benz AMG why the hell should I need to!
16- I’ve fallen head over heels in LOVE with scuba diving.
17- I believe in standing up and MAKING a difference.
18- I LOVE to travel.
19- My family had no idea about my skydiving.. if they did I would NEVER have been able to do it.
20- There is NO such thing as reducing cigarettes or easing off smoking… it’s cold turkey or NOTHING!
21- I love tea… Black, Green, 2in1, Chinese, Ice Lemon, Lychee, Tarik… in a cup, mug, bottle, glass… hot, cold, frosted…. I LOVE tea.
22- I’m half Irish, a quarter Chinese and a quarter Australian, born bred and a true blue MALAYSIAN… how’s THAT for cosmopolitan.
23- I get my clothes ready the night before.. next day 10 mins in the bath… 5 mins picking up stuff.. out the door!
24- I LOVE talent and passion.. there is something very appealing about god-given talent and passion put to good use.
25- Music is my LIFE… has, is and will be forever…

Originally posted on Facebook Notes on Tuesday, February 3, 2009 at 9:06pm

If You Love Someone Set Them Free

2009-07-28T01:37:00.003+08:00

When I read these words in my younger years I never really understood what they meant. Over time and upon reflection you understand that these words are powerful and mean so many things...

In a relationship when things go bad you don't hang on you have to let go.. And when you love someone and you've done all you can do, you set them free, and if that love was true it will all come back to you...If You Love Someone Set Them Free...

As a parent you 're always afraid of letting go of your kids. You nuture them, you teach them, you watch them grow and then one day they turn around and grow up. Sometimes t's hard for parents to understand this but if they love you in return they will ALWAYS come back to you... If You Love Someone Set Them Free...

And this rings true for all your relationships new or old, love or business... sometimes we have to learn to let go...letting go, even though it brings you pain, it is the ultimate sacrifice for both parties... therefore .. If You Love Someone Set Them Free...

and you will find life goes on....

If you love someone, set them free. If they come back they're yours; if they don't they never were. - Richard Bach

Butterfly - Mariah Carey
When you love someone so deeply
They become your life
It's easy to succumb to overwhelming fears inside
Blindly I imagined I could

Keep you under glass
Now I understand to hold you
I must open up my hands
And watch you rise

Spread your wings and prepare to fly
For you have become a butterfly
Fly abandoned into the sun
If you should return to me
We truly were meant to be
So spread your wings and fly
Butterfly

I have learned that beauty
Has to flourish in the light
Wild horses run unbridled
Or their spirit dies
You have given me the courage
To be all that I can
And truly feel your heart will
Lead you back to me when you're
Ready to land

Spread your wings and prepare to fly
For you have become a butterfly
Fly abandoned into the sun
If you should return to me
We truly were meant to be
So spread your wings and fly
Butterfly

I can't pretend these tears
Aren't over flowing steadily
I can't prevent this hurt from
Almost overtaking me
But I will stand and say goodbye
For you'll never be mine
Until you know the way it feels to fly

Spread your wings and prepare to fly
For you have become a butterfly
Fly abandoned into the sun
If you should return to me
We truly were meant to be
So spread your wings and fly
Butterfly

Originally posted by Facebook Notes on Monday, January 19, 2009 at 11:34pm

Blood on their hands......

2009-07-28T01:15:00.006+08:00

I've had the ultimate diving year .... I've seen sharks, whale sharks, manta rays, pygmy seahorses and a whole host of other things.... it's been truly amazing, breathtaking, awesome, humbling!! I've also made some very good friends along the way.... What a great 2008!

At the same time I've also seen and heard things that have troubled me deeply....

Trouble #1 - The Mabul Oceanarium

I CANNOT, as hard as I try, see why this project is needed... "Malaysia Boleh"... As a result of this COMMERCIAL venture ocean and land life alike will be affected. The island already suffers from an inadequate waste management system.

We are talking about an area that is located near our World famous dive site, Sipadan, yet we want to screw it up. Sabah and our Federal Government should be thinking in the long term. The project will require tonnes of construction material that will be brought in by barges and this in turn will destroy the island's marine life and degrade the corals off nearby Sipadan.

Most of the tourist going to the island are divers who already experience the rich underwater life available in Mabul and other islands around it.... we DO NOT need an oceanarium, we just need to figure out how to preserve and conserve its' natural beauty.

NO! to Mabul's oceanarium and resort - http://apps.facebook.com/causes/152265?m=454a9415

Trouble #2 - Shark Finning

On our latest trip to Mabul I watched in horror as a boat brought in a number of sharks and as each one was winced up the kids were busy working at fining them (See attached pictures). I had watched a documentary before and hated it but watching it live was even more heart wrenching and upsetting. I felt nauseated...

In commercial outfits they fin the sharks and then throw them back into the sea. That is like taking a human being, cutting off their arms and legs and throwing them into the sea alive...NO chance of survival and a slow death. This place we saw has boats going back and forth throughout the day bringing in sharks for slaughter.

I want to see those sharks ALIVE in the water!!! Not DEAD and in soup...

An estimated 200 million sharks are killed worldwide a year – 500,000 every day – and most of these are killed in an indescribably cruel fashion. This is a dramatic overexploitation of shark populations and a form of tampering with the largest ecosystem of the world that can never be undone – with far-reaching and dramatic consequences for our children and our children’s children. - Sharkproject.orgStop Shark Finning in Malaysia - http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=17023942317 http://www.stopsharkfinning.net/ http://www.sharkwater.com/education.htm http://www.seashepherd.org/

The Main Problem - The problem with our country is apathy towards issues, everything is nevermind (tidak apa)... we NEED to EDUCATE people on things that matter. It starts with you and me... not wait for someone else to do it!!

We need to educate the local people to protect the environment and reap the benefits of doing so. Starting with the rampant throwing of rubbish to making money from illegal fishing activities (dynamite fishing, etc.) and shark fining. I have seen first hand all of the above and it bothers me that no one is doing anything. Do I blame someone for doing what is making them a living NO... I blame authorities for NOT educating them. If they are taught some kind of skill or trade that is legal and puts food on the table we solve both problems...

What can we do....

* Be less apathetic and DO positive things towards conservation... together we CAN make a difference

* Support all petitions and movements to stop the Oceanarium.

* Stop eating shark fin anything and make sure you tell people why... When the buying stops the killing will too.

* Take pictures and report any incidents of shark fining to activist groups that can help towards legislation..

Message to the government - Don't wait until it's too late we need to do something NOW!! When we all don't do anything about important issues we ALL have BLOOD ON OUR HANDS!!

Originally posted on FAcebook Notes on Thursday, January 1, 2009 at 9:53pm

Hop On Hop Off My City

2009-07-28T01:04:00.004+08:00

This year (thanks to my dear friend Ella Basir and the Marine Monkees) I rekindled another love.. photography. Some see photography as an art... some as memories,,, others as weapons of mass destruction on Facebook... but for whatever their reasons I find itself satisfying and therapeutic!! It opens your eyes (and your mind) to seeing life with a totally different view... and it captures emotion like no other medium can... it's true the camera NEVER lies!!

So during bulan puasa people struggle with things to do to keep themselves occupied and their minds off food. After all one of our national pastimes is not possible (eating) leaving only one (shopping) provided you have money. So this weekend, instead of sitting at home and wondering what to eat for buka at 10am in the morning, I decided to take Nadiah and our cameras "jalan-jalan" around Kuala Lumpur with the KL Hop On Hop Off Tour!!

For those who don't know.... we also have a Double Decker Bus Tour for tourist but I would recommend this for anyone with kids or even if you haven't really experienced Kuala Lumpur (and over 40 major attractions) it is a marvelous way to do it within 24 hours and it's cheaper fare for Malaysians!! (http://www.myhoponhopoff.com/)

Now with all the nonsense our country is experiencing thanks to our politicians we forget what our country is all about. Thanks to my jalan-jalan it just reaffirmed my love for my country (apart from providing photographic subject matter). In one day I have visited a temple in Chinatown, the Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the National Mosque and St. Mary's Church apart for all the other sites some of which I did not get off but will another day!!

Ours is a warm, friendly multicultural country with people all wanting the same thing... security, respect and a place to call home. No matter what god we pray to.. no matter what our cultural differences... no matter where we come from... we are MALAYSIAN!! It was the first time Nadiah has seen all this and I was happy for her to experience and rejoice in our differences!!

Once again I am humbled by life. It was one of the most enjoyable Sundays in Kuala Lumpur I've had in a while.... MY Town.... MY Country!!

Originally posted on Facebook Notes on Sunday, September 14, 2008 at 10:05pm

The One Where You Learn About Diving, Education and Life

2009-07-28T00:58:00.007+08:00

I'm running for Minister of Tourism... in the space of 2.5 months I have been to Perhentian, Tioman, Redang and Sipadan. Does Malaysia have a loyalty card where I can collect frequent visitor miles.... THEY SHOULD!

In my diving I have learnt something (ok ok so those who read my notes are slapping their forehead and going .... oh God... Jen learnt AGAIN!!!). Hey they're MY NOTES I WRITE WHAT I WANT!! :)

This is what I've learnt :
a) How to appreciate God, Nature and My Life
b) Patience (Good things come to those who wait)
c) The importance of friendship and watching out for them (the buddy system)

d) MALAYSIANS (I love them because I'm one) are lousy at conservation
e) MALAYSIANS (I still love them) have a tidak apa attitude
f) Our education system is CRAP!!
g) LIFE IS TOO SHORT

a) How to appreciate God, Nature and My Life.... When you dive you get to see some of the most beautiful things EVER... both above and underwater.. The best dive sites are beautiful Islands (located right in our backyard here in MALAYSIA). If you live here and you don't dive you're missing out BIG TIME. Foreigners come from far and wide just to dive here... It is here I give thanks that I am ALIVE.

b) Watching underwater photographers at work has shown me how patience pays off. They can wait motionless in one spot for minutes waiting for the subject to strike a pose but when you see their results you understand why they wait..... Good things come.

c) In diving you not only look out for yourself but for your buddy and others. That is a responsibility that all divers take. If you don't one day it could be you in trouble... And then out of water you have a special bond of friendship because you have experience things that some people may never do or see in their lifetime.... Friendship means looking out for each other!

d), e) f) Malaysian are badly educated in all things other than academic (and even that one wonders) we need to understand life is more than 13 A1s. It's about understanding, appreciation and conservation. We are taught nothing of this in school and we expect our future generation to care!!! Throwing rubbish outside, cigarette butts, plastic bags... adults and kids do it alike.... with not a second thought. Our government doesn't give a damn either... dustbins nowhere in sight in public places.... who cares that plastic bags kill, who cares that cigarette butts are non biodegradable.... I can't even begin to start the story and there is NO end in sight... but you know what I mean.....

But all of us can make a difference. Yes, unfortunately leadership IS by example... monkey see monkey do.... You throw tissue out the window, your kids throw tissue out the window..... you teach everyone that it's ok to touch and remove things from the sea, everyone says I saw someone else do it why can't I... When someone bought shells cheaply from a stall and in jest was told, "When The Buying Stops The Killing Will Stop Too"..... the truth hits home. It's true when there is demand there will forever be supply.... Sharks Fin, Tiger Bones, Bear's Paws, Ivory, Shells.....the list is endless.

Apathy is a Malaysian's standard reaction, "Aiya.. it's oklah, nevermind I can't do much anyway.."

Yeah diving made me think of all of this.... LIFE IS TOO SHORT.... we need to do what we can do in our lifetime. Understand, Appreciate and Conserve for others that come after us.... The future is in ALL out hands now it's just a matter of whether we CARE ENOUGH.

Originally posted on Facebook Notes on Friday, July 4, 2008 at 12:51am

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - The One Where You Give Thanks!!

2009-07-28T00:53:00.003+08:00

I wanted to write a piece on Friends but Koi Unlimited beat me to the title!!! My fellow Sagittarian... "Great minds think Alike" (then again Fools seldom Differ). He wrote a great note thanking his friends... we stoic Saggis are more emotional than we make out to be (Dark chocolate with caramel filling!!!).

In the past few months I've learnt where my indifference comes from. I am such an emotional person but you'd NEVER believe me. Only the closest people around me have ever seen me be emotional. This I realize has come from moving schools and changing friends a lot when I was young. I moved with my parents round KL/Selangor and went from Garden School to Good Sheppard to Assunta to CBN to Sri Inai and finally to Talyor's College. It was hard for me to keep on making friends and then having to leave them so after a while I blocked out feeling anything and just learned to walk away and NEVER look back. Friendships were never deep, yeah I had lots of friends but I never kept in touch, never went out, never share a real bond of friendship.

Being an only child you have an advantage of not sharing your parents love but you also have to learn to fend for yourself. So I've gone through life ensuring that nothing ever makes me truly excited, happy, sad, angry.... yes I feel those emotions deeply but I don't let them get to me because indifference doesn't hurt or disappoint.

So I've always held people at arm’s length.... my life always revolved around office, house, studio and back....but lately I have met people that I have let myself open up and be drawn to them and yes.... strange as it may be.... I feel the bond of friendship and I suddenly realize what an important part of life it is.... and I give thanks for that. We go to gym, we play badminton, we watch movies, we eat, we drink coffee, we dive, we talk and laugh... yeah it feels good...

so my deepest thanks to friends who have always been there especially in my office Atie, Ayie, Itcha, Jay, Ju, Koi, Nanee, Nicole, Sat, ..... although out relationship has not gone much out of the office but the friendship has meant so much.....we've pretty much been thru the fire together...

My new found friends....from the activities above will know who you are.....

To all the people have touched my life, and made me the person I am today...

I thank you ALL from the bottom of my HEART for being there for your presence has enriched MY life..... and hell yeah IT FEELS DAMN GOOD!!!

Originally posted on Facebook Notes on Monday, June 16, 2008 at 1:13am

Of Sundays, Jaclyn Victor and Live Music......

2009-07-28T00:49:00.004+08:00

So it was SUNDAY and me the reclusive who NEVER goes to gigs decides that I need to go see the new 8th "UNZIPPED" series at Ruums, Life Centre that debut with JACLYN VICTOR. I like shows that features LIVE MUSIC because that is what music and performance is all about.... I know minus one presents less hassle and you only need to travel the artiste and a CD player but it also lacks passion and heart!!

So yeah everyone's used to seeing Jac sing one song, appearing in every publicity program, award show, VIP function, corporate dinner but folks that really ain't Jac Victor. She can sing without a doubt, text book perfect but you never quite see the really Jac until you see her sing a full set at ease, no big hair, no ballgowns, no VIP just herself. Then you see the real Jac the singer with the heart and soul and energy that draws you in as audience.

I learnt something AGAIN today but its things we already know but sometimes forget.... Music needs to be performed live... there is NO substitute for live musicians.... and true singers thrive on this!! The feel, the vibe, the passion.... that's what live music is all about. LIVE = ALIVE!!

The other thing that I learnt is that live music moves people.... if we had a live music scene here more people would start buying music. You never get the same response from minus one shows. Even me as a seasoned viewer, I am never failed to be moved by a GOOD live performance. Malaysians are spoilt by passive minus one performances both live and on television!!! (Might as well just play the CD at home). LIVE MUSIC = IMPASSIONED PEOPLE

And last but not least if you're wondering how come our bands are never as tight as Indonesian bands don't... if our bands played 50 shows a month like them they'd be tight too!!! Our bands have no platform for performance most of the time it's one song on TV (sometimes even miming!!!!) or a three song set. PRACTISE = PERFECT. This brings me to my final observation is that people in Malaysia (and everywhere else) have to learn to appreciate and pay for music. Music powers everything advertising campaigns, radio, television entertainment, mobile phone content, OUR LIVES.... just to name a few.... people whether public or corporate need to realize this and GIVE MUSIC IT’S DUE....

Originally posted on Facebook Notes on Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 11:26pm

Face to Face....

2009-07-28T00:40:00.005+08:00

I've often wondered why I like to do adventurous things since I was young...

Then it occurred to me that I'm an adrenalin junkie... even my job pumps adrenalin but apart from pumping adrenalin over time I have come to realize something more important that living life on the edge is also a humbling experience.

When you skydive every time you touch the ground after jumping you understand that there is someone greater than you....

When you see the beauty of the underwater world (which is not our natural environment) you understand that we have a maker that is all mighty....

When you sit on the beach and see a sunset or the stars in a cloudless night sky it takes your breath away and you give thanks for the gift of life......

These experiences teach me how small I am and I am humbled every time I am faced with the Greatness of God....

Originally posted on Facebook Notes on Wednesday, June 4, 2008 at 2:41am

We Live.... We Learn!

2009-07-28T00:35:00.003+08:00

Watching AF6 (at home) has taught me a couple of things which I actually already know but it just cemented it in stone!!

As a person who is involved in production watching a show has sometimes lost its' magic as you become highly critical not only of the performance(s) but also the production values (and this is everything from singing to magic to musicals) and only views of local productions but foreign ones suffer the same fate in my eyes too. Even my own shows are not spared from my ever critical self!!As I watched AF6 finals, I try to learn from people's successes and mistakes; it taught me that if the production around the show is of a high standard it lifts everything.

First noticeably was the inclusion of an ORCHESTRA. A handpicked orchestra led by a capable conductor can make an amazing difference to even an orchestra with some exceptional players mixed with some "unexceptional" players... it's about teamwork. RAMLI M.S. never fails to deliver... if he arranges it is even more of a plus point (I suspect in this show he did not to show no favoritism to the contestants). But kudos to Ramli and GENERVIE KAM... the music was lifted to another level for this show.

Next to be noticed... you can have the best musicians in the world playing on top of stage but a BAD MIX can KILL!! Vocal too far in front can kill the singer who will constantly sound flat/sharp.... too much reverb they're singing in a toilet... music not mixed properly can make an amazing arrangement sound bad or a wonderful band sound incompetent. As I listened to the music and without even really noticing it because it was so good I admit the broadcast sound was outstanding!! GREG HENDERSON can obtain the best separation in the business (in layman terms this is when you can hear each instrument, including the vocal, clearly... individually yet one.. if that makes sense!!) It was so good I only realize this half way thru the show... when it's bad you notice... when it's good you don't!!!!

Nice uncluttered modern stage by FAIZAL ZULKIFLI....
Nice lighting and programming by AH KING (student of guru STEVE HO)...
and those that I did not hear but I know must have been good otherwise it would have affected the production .....
Front of house sound (for the people in the room) by ALVIN KOH....
Monitors (Sound for musicians on stage) by SIMON KHOO.

Good music.. good mix... good stage… good lighting....And finally put it together and what do you get SUPERCALIFRAGILISTISEXPEALIDOCIOUS!! A show worth watching! These people who work behind the scenes deserve a standing ovation!!

The performers were not famous artistes neither were they fantastic singers (yet!!) but thanks to the perfection and professionalism that surrounded them they lifted THEMSELVES to another level.

This happens all the time in our business even with the big Artistes. Give them the platform of good production values and they will in turn give you GREAT mind blowing PERFORMANCES.... every good turn deserves another...

Production is all about TEAMWORK.... we work together for only one goal the BEST SHOW YOU CAN DO... anyone who works this job without that passion in their hearts needs to find another job. Every show is different... an experience... so as a team sometimes you win, draw and even lose but whatever happens you tried your best and... WE LIVE... WE LEARN!!

Originally posted on Facebook Notes on Sunday, May 25, 2008 at 12:49pm

LIFE...Just DO It!

2009-07-28T00:27:00.002+08:00

Many people go through life wondering if they maybe shoulda, woulda, oughta..... and when you're young and invincible it never occurs to you that life needs to be lived.

If there is something you want to do... and I mean REALLY want to do... just DO IT... anything is possible but like everything you have to work towards it.... so many people put things off because they have no time, no money, no motivation.

Where there is a will there is a way I always say. If you really want to climb Mount Everest DO IT!, If you want to travel the world DO IT!, if you want to Skydive DO IT!..... there's no one stopping you but yourself.... Life is TOO short.

Everyone has responsibilities, no time, no money but your will and your mind are power tools. That is why there are stories of human achievements that are sometimes mind boggling.I'm not asking you to be reckless but I'm asking you to allow yourself to experience life and live your dreams..... so many people let their dreams pass them by because they think that they're impossible....but dreams are fuel for the soul... When you dream you're alive... when you succeed the sense of achievement is the greatest adrenalin you can ever have.

Life is never easy... if it were it wouldn't be Life.... bumps in the road, u-turns, traffic lights, flat tyres are just part of experience in your journey, don't stop and park, solve the problem and continue....then you can say you lived with NO regrets!!

Originally posted on Facebook Notes on Sunday, April 27, 2008 at 9:43am

The Greatest Love of All

2009-07-28T00:23:00.001+08:00

I LOVE this song by George Benson... besides being delivered with soooo much emotion.... the message it carries is a powerful one not only to oneself but to those who have children.

It teaches you the Greatest Love that anyone can have is the belief and self respect within yourself. But this can only be achieved when you have love, guidance support and trust from your parents. This is the greatest gift any parent can give their child... not money... not expensive gifts... all they want is LOVE.

As parents we always ask of ourselves have we done enough... are we good enough... do we give enough.... we can only but do the best we can.... educate them... feed them... teach them to be GOD fearing.... LOVE them and then trust them and let them go.... if you have done your job they will always come home... for they know this is the only place they can get unconditional love.

The Greatest Love of all it's easy to achieve....learning to love yourself is the Greatest Love of All...and if by chance that special place that you've been dreaming of..... leads you to a lonely place find your strength in LOVE.. ....

Originally posted on Facebook Notes on Friday, April 25, 2008 at 1:51am

Talent is a thing to respect

2009-07-28T00:20:00.001+08:00

Working around musicians and artists is always a humbling experience because when they're good you just know that you are watching God given talent. But lest you think it's easy.. God gives you the talent but you have to hone it.... it doesn't come on a silver platter!

I wanted to play music all my life but I guess that wasn't one of the talents that God gave me but I am still lucky to be working amongst such creative people. When you hear an orchestra play, when you hear a singer sing, when you hear a rock band rock..... it is just such an amazing feeling. Yup you're watching a work of art.

Only those of us who work behind the scenes and watch talent at work do you really understand how difficult it is. They work 8 hours or more a day like any other respectable profession.... practice make perfect!! And then they have to get on a stage and entertain or impress an audience. Now if you think it's easy.... here's a microphone you try entertaining 10,000 people...

I thank god everyday that I was born in an era where live music was king. Sudirman was alive, there were live performance clubs galore and the entertainment scene was kicking. I learnt so much from those days and have invaluable experiences that help me understand and appreciate the entertainment business. My job on this earth is to enhance these talented people... if I have achieved this then I am satisfied that I had a small part to play.

If you see an artist or musician that you enjoy watching always remember that they give a piece of themselves to you.... they paint the music with their feelings.. with their personal experiences.. with their passion...which is like a fingerprint... no two people feel or approach things the same way. That is why talent is a thing to respect....

Originally posted on Facebook Notes on Sunday, March 30, 2008 at 1:49am

RELIGION...is keeping your ears and eyes open!!

2009-07-28T00:16:00.001+08:00

I did not come from a religious family. I was brought up with a belief that there was a God somewhere.....

When I was 15 my father died leaving my mother alone to look after me and everything else. It must have been a scary moment for my mother to think that she would have to see me through life alone. Some nights I would wake up in the middle of the night and find my mother crying alone in the kitchen and it scared me as I had always seen her as a strong woman. So I prayed to God (who I had never spoken to before) nightly for about 2 weeks to help my mother. A fortnight later my mother turned to me and said, "Jennifer (when she said my full name it was always serious!!) we're going to church... St. Andrews the one I was baptized at!". I looked at her like she had gone mad... church on Sunday when I like to sleep in!! Are you crazy!! She practically dragged me there and we got stuck every Sunday.... she became very involved in church work (I taught Sunday school.... yup me!!) and eventually she became an elder... she grew from strength to strength with her faith... and even when she died she knew she was going "home".

One year later after following her "religiously" to church I reflected on my request to God and understood that this had been the answer to my prayers... church and the faith had helped my mother and gave her the strength to carry on right to the end of days and for that I thank God and truly believe in the power of prayer. So sometime the answer is not as straight forward as you think..... which brings me to the quote from the movie "Evan Knows" (God speaking to Evan's wife who has walked out, doubting her husband)...

"God: Let me ask you something. If someone prays for patience, you think God gives them patience? Or does he give them the opportunity to be patient? If he prayed for courage, does God give him courage, or does he give him opportunities to be courageous? If someone prayed for the family to be closer, do you think God zaps them with warm fuzzy feelings, or does he give them opportunities to love each other?"

Boy did that hit home.... life is like a highway you have to read the signs or forever be lost.... you MUST believe and have FAITH no matter what your religion!!

Originally posted on Facebook Notes on Friday, March 28, 2008 at 2:59am

Race is a FOUR letter word.....

2009-07-28T00:13:00.001+08:00

In standard four I argued with my teacher because I wrote Malaysian on my form where race was. She was adamant that Malaysian wasn't a race but I had different ideas!!.... Well it got my parents a one way ticket to the teacher!!

My father is Irish (who came out here to help fight the communists, got stuck here, fell in love with Malaysia and a Malaysian.... gave up his citizenship to be Malaysian and lived and died here happily ever after)... My mother is of mixed parentage half Chinese, half Australian born in Bentong, Pahang also lived and died a Malaysian citizen.

I am a crazy mixed up kid who has converted to Islam (which makes my kids an even crazier mixed up bunch) also a Malaysian citizen. Given the scenario above that qualifies me to be a........ (now let’s see what's available) a) Malay b) Chinese c) Indian d) Punjabi e) Dayak f) Iban g) Mindanao h)Eurasian .... z) Dan Lain.... I WANT TO BE MALAYSIAN!!!

I have a problem with people needing to know my race... what does it matter... I was born and bred here.... studied 100% in Bahasa Malaysia.. speak, read, write the language... love my country... so that makes me MALAYSIAN.

Next time I fill in a form -
RACE : 100 meters
SEX : Yes please

Original posted on Facebook Notes on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at 10:35pm

The Magic of Song

2009-07-27T23:34:00.001+08:00

Reading status lines of many people of all ages (which include the ones my kids write) and also people who write lyrics that remind them of something shows us the power of music. Be it to heal, remember, reflect a song can take you back in flash even before the verse is out of the gate..... nothing can send you back in time like a song can remember each and every detail of how you felt and what you were doing.... the melody zaps you makes you cry, puts a smile on your face!!And then there's the lyrics that reach out and relate to something that you've felt... it's like watching a movie and realizing you're watching your life in front of you... lyrics make you react the same way... they lift you up, make you sad, give you strength.... takes you in and wrap you in its arms!!How many times have you turned to the power of song....

Originally posted on Facebook - Sunday, March 23, 2008 at 11:00pm

There’s NO business like show business……….

2009-07-27T16:22:00.001+08:00

It’s been 26 long years in the music business… but I have no complaints… you see like most people involved in it, it is a curse. The passion for the business consumes you, drags you in and holds you forever.

Music is magic…. You hear a tune and it triggers a flashback in your brain. Whether it was your schools days, you first boyfriend/girlfriend or the day you lost your job. We can help but turn to the soothing sounds (or the angst whatever your choice may be) of music. Music colors your life everywhere you turn.

I have only one grouse in that people nowadays take music for granted because it is so readily available. No one ever thinks what a movie would be without a soundtrack, what it would be like to be stuck in a traffic jam or driving long distance, and I wonder what those fashionable phones and mp3 players would be like without music.

The ironic thing is that in this day and age where music is everywhere, because it is so portable, and music can sell like no other medium can, we have forgotten about the creators for without them there is no music. Strangely enough music drives everyone’s advertising campaign telecommunication companies, mobile phone makers, television stations, movie soundtracks, but the creators still get the bad end of the deal.

People are in dire need of content to drive advertising dollar and vie for the consumer dollar. Most of the content is music or entertainment driven. PLEASE give music, it’s creators, it’s movers and it’s shakers what they are due.

We have lost two whole generations to piracy. First physical (cassettes and CDs) and now with downloads (internet). Kids today spend a lot of money on lifestyle otherwise people would not be spending millions advertising their newest deal on talktime, who makes the best ice blended, what the trendiest phone in town is, cars that can plug in mp3 players… but when it comes time to buy music to add value to the lifestyle everyone turns to downloads with absolutely no thought (and no conscience) to those who deserve the money.

In an affluent age, from which we are from, you would think people would purchase albums. “Album are expensive”, is the excuse… from people who drink RM10.00 coffee and change their mobile phone every 6 months.

An album does not only involve the artistes. Just read the album cover and it will tell you there were musicians, producers, composers, lyricist, arrangers, sound engineers, album cover designers and later on when the album is marketed it will involve video directors, sound and light companies, entertainment journalists, record company executives and countless other people that give their creative input and professional energy.

We cannot hope to change the mindset of a generation brought up with freebies and a total disregard of creative talent. But everything starts with you and me. When you feel you want to download a song, when your kid downloads and burns an illegal CD, when someone buys a pirate copy of a CD or cassette… think again…..turn off the radio, kill the sounds of the mp3 player you’re holding, turn the volume of the movie you’re watching down …. Life will NEVER be the same without MUSIC.

Meanwhile to the brave men and women that continue to work this industry with passion and hope, I salute you. They give their lives to entertain you and me …. There’s really is NO business like show business.