大选期间
不断在网络世界里
寻找同本地政治有关的讯息
希望通过不同人的眼中
看待选情。
就这样
找到了李邪的博客
发现几乎每一篇
都说中我心坎里。
尽管大选已经尘埃落定
但有时间的话
还是可以去看一看
我想
还是会有种触动吧。
http://lixiebiancoo.blogspot.com/
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Monday, May 09, 2011
选后反思
5年一次的本地盛事就这样过去了。其实，心情还未沉淀下来。
本届大选确实振奋人心，结果正是我所期望的，相信也是许多新加坡人期望的。能在本地政治历史掀开新篇章的那一刻，同缔造历史的人近在咫尺，确实令人感动。当下，因为有任在身而没能像在场的支持者以样，完全感受到这份激情，但至今仍为这个结果感到雀跃。
感谢后港和阿裕尼人作出的决定。跟一些那里居民聊过后，他们都表示愿意撇开个人利益，为新加坡民主大环境尽一份力。新加坡选民确实成熟了。这虽然也只算是一小步，但却是关键性的一步。
本届大选对我来说也有很大意义，是第一次达到合法年龄可以投票（但最终还是因为我住的选区没有反对党来挑战而无法执行这个公民义务）、也是第一次以记者身份采访大选。对本地政治的了解深入了不少，也可以更坚定地说，我为自己是新加坡人感到骄傲。
即便本地政治不如其他更成熟的民主社会来的“精彩”，但我觉得这是健康的。政党主要还是以理性的政策、政治辩论来赢得选民的选票，而不是以人身攻击、抹黑等手段来竞选。不会互相开骂，而是理智的辩论，阐述论点。
自小都认为本地反对党都是一群少根经的人，为了反对而反对，不知所谓的人，因为以前只有他们被政要起诉，被警察抓时，我才会认识到他们。记得首次对政治有一点认识和兴趣是2001年的大选。当时年中四的我们，只要能说出内阁部长的名字，就已经算是有政治意识。而当年我只记得一个反对党-工人党，觉得他们的表现还不错，是比较值得信赖的。
10年后的今天，他们取得了大跃进，在大选期间的追踪采访，也让我觉得他们党内的纪律、组织能力等其实都不输给行动党。
多年来许多国人因为集选区制度，导致多年来都不需要投票，而培养了所谓的政治冷感。但今年，除了我在内的14万名国人，其余的都需要作出选择。而也正因为等了这么久才有执行公民权的时候，大家越觉得自己手中的一票是神圣的，而更关注本地政治。
因此，要感谢各反对党希望挑战所有议席的决定，因为这唤醒了人们对政治的注意和热忱，更积极去参与政治。这也让我们意识到集选区制度对反对党、甚至对人民是多么的不公平。就因为这个制度，我们必须一次过失去两位部长，却让备受批评的新人进入国会。
对于所有反对党人，我想致以敬意，因为要站出来，是需要一定的勇气的。而就因为有你们的先河，让国人看到这并非想象中的可怕，也让所谓的climate of fear越来越不成立。你们唤醒了国人沉睡中的愿望。看到我身边朋友一个个都被激励，以实际行动去支持他们所相信的理念，这只能对新加坡来说，是好事。
对新上任的工人党议员，我只能说，国人对你们给予厚望。你们接下来的表现，不止会被后港人和阿裕尼人评估，全新加坡都会非常关注。因此，希望你们能不负众望，兑现你们的承诺，让更多新加坡人希望他们是后港和阿裕尼人。
我期待国会复会后的新气象。
本届大选确实振奋人心，结果正是我所期望的，相信也是许多新加坡人期望的。能在本地政治历史掀开新篇章的那一刻，同缔造历史的人近在咫尺，确实令人感动。当下，因为有任在身而没能像在场的支持者以样，完全感受到这份激情，但至今仍为这个结果感到雀跃。
感谢后港和阿裕尼人作出的决定。跟一些那里居民聊过后，他们都表示愿意撇开个人利益，为新加坡民主大环境尽一份力。新加坡选民确实成熟了。这虽然也只算是一小步，但却是关键性的一步。
本届大选对我来说也有很大意义，是第一次达到合法年龄可以投票（但最终还是因为我住的选区没有反对党来挑战而无法执行这个公民义务）、也是第一次以记者身份采访大选。对本地政治的了解深入了不少，也可以更坚定地说，我为自己是新加坡人感到骄傲。
即便本地政治不如其他更成熟的民主社会来的“精彩”，但我觉得这是健康的。政党主要还是以理性的政策、政治辩论来赢得选民的选票，而不是以人身攻击、抹黑等手段来竞选。不会互相开骂，而是理智的辩论，阐述论点。
自小都认为本地反对党都是一群少根经的人，为了反对而反对，不知所谓的人，因为以前只有他们被政要起诉，被警察抓时，我才会认识到他们。记得首次对政治有一点认识和兴趣是2001年的大选。当时年中四的我们，只要能说出内阁部长的名字，就已经算是有政治意识。而当年我只记得一个反对党-工人党，觉得他们的表现还不错，是比较值得信赖的。
10年后的今天，他们取得了大跃进，在大选期间的追踪采访，也让我觉得他们党内的纪律、组织能力等其实都不输给行动党。
多年来许多国人因为集选区制度，导致多年来都不需要投票，而培养了所谓的政治冷感。但今年，除了我在内的14万名国人，其余的都需要作出选择。而也正因为等了这么久才有执行公民权的时候，大家越觉得自己手中的一票是神圣的，而更关注本地政治。
因此，要感谢各反对党希望挑战所有议席的决定，因为这唤醒了人们对政治的注意和热忱，更积极去参与政治。这也让我们意识到集选区制度对反对党、甚至对人民是多么的不公平。就因为这个制度，我们必须一次过失去两位部长，却让备受批评的新人进入国会。
对于所有反对党人，我想致以敬意，因为要站出来，是需要一定的勇气的。而就因为有你们的先河，让国人看到这并非想象中的可怕，也让所谓的climate of fear越来越不成立。你们唤醒了国人沉睡中的愿望。看到我身边朋友一个个都被激励，以实际行动去支持他们所相信的理念，这只能对新加坡来说，是好事。
对新上任的工人党议员，我只能说，国人对你们给予厚望。你们接下来的表现，不止会被后港人和阿裕尼人评估，全新加坡都会非常关注。因此，希望你们能不负众望，兑现你们的承诺，让更多新加坡人希望他们是后港和阿裕尼人。
我期待国会复会后的新气象。
Friday, May 06, 2011
Rallies
What is election without rallies?
A time where one gets the ticket to smear the govt and oppo parties openly. It's amazing how such stuff brings people together.
Never before do I realise how passionate Singaporeans can be. Never before do I realise how Singaporeans can unite over a cause. Never before do I realise the power of Uncles. Never before do I not see Singaporeans complain about having to standing in the hot sun or in water-logged fields getting their feet muddy.
The power of politics is to unite, but to split as well. Once u pledge allegiance to one party, you are inevitably against the other. I do not have to vote, but I'm still torn about what kind of government or parliament I want to see in Singapore.
While a 1 party takes a parliament is not the ideal, a clear cut 2 party system is not as well. Personal experience in Taiwan and Philippines has made me seen it's ill effects and appreciating what I have in Singapore. There are countless other examples to prove how a partisan 2 party system is detrimental. But yet, what the oppositions are pointing out in their rallies and are offering is so tempting as well. 有竞争才有进步是不争的规律。
It is beyond a doubt that what we have today is the work of the ruling party. The Singapore that we are all proud of. But there are still certain areas that we are unhappy about, and the proposition that we can make the Singapore we are proud of even better sounds good doesn't it? Personally, I'm not in favour of just letting any oppo voice in parly, but if we see a good one, I think we should give them a chance to prove themselves.
Then and again, I'm not the person with the vote in hand. So, here i zip.
A time where one gets the ticket to smear the govt and oppo parties openly. It's amazing how such stuff brings people together.
Never before do I realise how passionate Singaporeans can be. Never before do I realise how Singaporeans can unite over a cause. Never before do I realise the power of Uncles. Never before do I not see Singaporeans complain about having to standing in the hot sun or in water-logged fields getting their feet muddy.
The power of politics is to unite, but to split as well. Once u pledge allegiance to one party, you are inevitably against the other. I do not have to vote, but I'm still torn about what kind of government or parliament I want to see in Singapore.
While a 1 party takes a parliament is not the ideal, a clear cut 2 party system is not as well. Personal experience in Taiwan and Philippines has made me seen it's ill effects and appreciating what I have in Singapore. There are countless other examples to prove how a partisan 2 party system is detrimental. But yet, what the oppositions are pointing out in their rallies and are offering is so tempting as well. 有竞争才有进步是不争的规律。
It is beyond a doubt that what we have today is the work of the ruling party. The Singapore that we are all proud of. But there are still certain areas that we are unhappy about, and the proposition that we can make the Singapore we are proud of even better sounds good doesn't it? Personally, I'm not in favour of just letting any oppo voice in parly, but if we see a good one, I think we should give them a chance to prove themselves.
Then and again, I'm not the person with the vote in hand. So, here i zip.
MMS
Well, it's been a whirlwind week, with too much info on either side that my puny brain can handle.
The liberalization of the internet and social media for campaigning meant that information is in explosive volumes, and that believe it or not, one can filter out stuff that you don't want to see or hear more easily.
For one, I would like to speak up on the criticisms on main stream media that has been made by almost every opposition party, saying that it's the mouth piece of government and gives unfair coverage to the opposition cause.
As a participant/contributor of the mainstream media, I tend to cringe whenever I hear this. We did do our very best to cover both sides equally. But the idea of fairness is actually subjective. What is fair coverage to you, would not be fair to the other party right? So what is fair? 50-50 coverage of the ruling and opposition parties? OR should we go down to the details to proportioning everyday's coverage based on the number of candidates each party is sending to contest like in the case of the party political broadcast?
When 1 party shoots down another, we got to report on it, as a fact, that A criticizes B for this. But at the same time, we will give B the right of reply. I think that is fair. Seeing both sides of the story. But due to deadline/space or any other constraints, it might not be possible to carry it in the same article or at the same time. That people need to understand.
In journalism, there are other factors of consideration when it comes to who gets more coverage. If you spout nonsense and say boring stuff, u prob might not be carried. In this election for example, an Aljunied GRC related election news, will take precedence say over Sembawang GRC, as we know ppl want to know more abt Aljunied than Sembawang. Is that fair?
Our yardstick of fairness might not be the same as yours. And as with politics, we can't make everyone happy all the time.
The liberalization of the internet and social media for campaigning meant that information is in explosive volumes, and that believe it or not, one can filter out stuff that you don't want to see or hear more easily.
For one, I would like to speak up on the criticisms on main stream media that has been made by almost every opposition party, saying that it's the mouth piece of government and gives unfair coverage to the opposition cause.
As a participant/contributor of the mainstream media, I tend to cringe whenever I hear this. We did do our very best to cover both sides equally. But the idea of fairness is actually subjective. What is fair coverage to you, would not be fair to the other party right? So what is fair? 50-50 coverage of the ruling and opposition parties? OR should we go down to the details to proportioning everyday's coverage based on the number of candidates each party is sending to contest like in the case of the party political broadcast?
When 1 party shoots down another, we got to report on it, as a fact, that A criticizes B for this. But at the same time, we will give B the right of reply. I think that is fair. Seeing both sides of the story. But due to deadline/space or any other constraints, it might not be possible to carry it in the same article or at the same time. That people need to understand.
In journalism, there are other factors of consideration when it comes to who gets more coverage. If you spout nonsense and say boring stuff, u prob might not be carried. In this election for example, an Aljunied GRC related election news, will take precedence say over Sembawang GRC, as we know ppl want to know more abt Aljunied than Sembawang. Is that fair?
Our yardstick of fairness might not be the same as yours. And as with politics, we can't make everyone happy all the time.
Tuesday, May 03, 2011
进入下半场
来的快，去得也快。大选竞选期就这么9天，要决定未来5年的命运，要怎么最决定？
在协助大家做决定的同时，自己却没有这个权利，的确是有点失落。尽管觉得希望前来挑战的反对党对手绝对不是执政党的对手，素质绝对不会比他们好，但是我觉得有竞争，人民才会觉醒，会更了解在哦及手中的一票的意义。
虽不能说这次反对党的素质很高，但这次反对党大规模挑战执政党，只让一个集选区不战而胜，也挺佩服的。他们做到的，是让人们政治觉醒，让人们更仔细地去了解政治的意义，也让行动党更积极的去了解人们的意见。而这次各反对党最终能大规模避免三角战的发生，也显示他们的出发点都是为了国家利益，而不是党的利益，依我看，是很成熟的反对党作风。总总迹象来看，本地反对党已经成熟了，是时候给他们机会展现他们的能力。
有竞争才有进步是不争的事实。
投下反对票不代表抹杀你们之前的成绩。之前有好成绩，也不代表接下来就会继续有好成绩。我想，是时候换一下口味，尝试新菜色，让味蕾有新的刺激。
在协助大家做决定的同时，自己却没有这个权利，的确是有点失落。尽管觉得希望前来挑战的反对党对手绝对不是执政党的对手，素质绝对不会比他们好，但是我觉得有竞争，人民才会觉醒，会更了解在哦及手中的一票的意义。
虽不能说这次反对党的素质很高，但这次反对党大规模挑战执政党，只让一个集选区不战而胜，也挺佩服的。他们做到的，是让人们政治觉醒，让人们更仔细地去了解政治的意义，也让行动党更积极的去了解人们的意见。而这次各反对党最终能大规模避免三角战的发生，也显示他们的出发点都是为了国家利益，而不是党的利益，依我看，是很成熟的反对党作风。总总迹象来看，本地反对党已经成熟了，是时候给他们机会展现他们的能力。
有竞争才有进步是不争的事实。
投下反对票不代表抹杀你们之前的成绩。之前有好成绩，也不代表接下来就会继续有好成绩。我想，是时候换一下口味，尝试新菜色，让味蕾有新的刺激。
Friday, April 29, 2011
提名日花絮
This comes a little late as it's hard to peel my eyes of election related news online these days. And with the rallies in full force, it just gets so much more action packed.
Was at the WP rally at Hougang earlier, a very 1st election rally I've been to. Well, my family had nv had to vote since I dunno when (1991 I supposed), not even this time round, so we really nv had to talk politics. Atmosphere was great with random ppl shouting support and boo-ing the govt. There was prolly 20 to 30K ppl there and I est that half the ppl I knew was there. Saw at least 20 ppl I know, not counting those that I couldn't spot amid the crazy crowd.
Back to Nomination Day craziness, actually I wasn't that crazy lah. I actually missed all the drama at my nomination centre cos I was stationed by the Notice Board. Seriously, our only view was the notice board and nothing else. Can't even see the crowd, can only occasionally hear them.
Now for my fav moments at Tao Nan School Nomination Centre:
- fellow reporter asking me what she should file for her prob 4th live report of the day. "How about I'm sweating like a pig, my hair is messy and my makeup is melting?"
- someone telling me SM Goh will be giving a doorstop interview later right where we are stationed. I asked him how he knew. He said, "I met him in the toilet and asked him if he can give a doorstop and he said yes." Wow. Maybe I should have stalked Tin Pei Ling or Nicole Seah in the toilet.
- While waiting for the Returning Officer to announce the confirmed lineup, all the reporters were wondering what was taking so long, and we came up with various stories of how Ms Tin is having an early showdown with Ms Seah.
- Following on that, a fellow not-to-be-quoted reporter said, "Did u see Tin Pei Ling's VPL? TPL VPL. She wear white damn obvious lah." That was a male reporter.
- When the various candidates are making their speeches and it was TPL's turn, the crowd goes "Kate Spade! Kate Spade!"
That was all I can remember for now.
Seriously, although PAP have like 3/4 times more supporters than the opposition combined, their supporters do not have as much viction as the oppo's supporters. Just by listening to their cheers and jeers, I would have thought that they were similar in strength, sometimes the oppo seemed even louder than the PAP supporters.
But if the numbers were anything to go by, it's prob an indication of the actual votes each party would get. Having louder dissenting voice, does not mean u can win.
It doesn't matter whether u draw the cross with a fat marker pen or a thin pencil, it is still one cross.
Was at the WP rally at Hougang earlier, a very 1st election rally I've been to. Well, my family had nv had to vote since I dunno when (1991 I supposed), not even this time round, so we really nv had to talk politics. Atmosphere was great with random ppl shouting support and boo-ing the govt. There was prolly 20 to 30K ppl there and I est that half the ppl I knew was there. Saw at least 20 ppl I know, not counting those that I couldn't spot amid the crazy crowd.
Back to Nomination Day craziness, actually I wasn't that crazy lah. I actually missed all the drama at my nomination centre cos I was stationed by the Notice Board. Seriously, our only view was the notice board and nothing else. Can't even see the crowd, can only occasionally hear them.
Now for my fav moments at Tao Nan School Nomination Centre:
- fellow reporter asking me what she should file for her prob 4th live report of the day. "How about I'm sweating like a pig, my hair is messy and my makeup is melting?"
- someone telling me SM Goh will be giving a doorstop interview later right where we are stationed. I asked him how he knew. He said, "I met him in the toilet and asked him if he can give a doorstop and he said yes." Wow. Maybe I should have stalked Tin Pei Ling or Nicole Seah in the toilet.
- While waiting for the Returning Officer to announce the confirmed lineup, all the reporters were wondering what was taking so long, and we came up with various stories of how Ms Tin is having an early showdown with Ms Seah.
- Following on that, a fellow not-to-be-quoted reporter said, "Did u see Tin Pei Ling's VPL? TPL VPL. She wear white damn obvious lah." That was a male reporter.
- When the various candidates are making their speeches and it was TPL's turn, the crowd goes "Kate Spade! Kate Spade!"
That was all I can remember for now.
Seriously, although PAP have like 3/4 times more supporters than the opposition combined, their supporters do not have as much viction as the oppo's supporters. Just by listening to their cheers and jeers, I would have thought that they were similar in strength, sometimes the oppo seemed even louder than the PAP supporters.
But if the numbers were anything to go by, it's prob an indication of the actual votes each party would get. Having louder dissenting voice, does not mean u can win.
It doesn't matter whether u draw the cross with a fat marker pen or a thin pencil, it is still one cross.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Let the smearing begin
The event of the year is here! Like finally... In fact I've been waiting for it for a while.
Tomorrow is the start of the real action, and I think I might get too excited to sleep properly tonight.
These days, all I tend to talk about is politics. That is something I'd never imagine myself doing 5 years ago. But I'm truly glad to be part of this very exciting elections that seems promising of some real breakthrough.
All the opposition vigour and conviction of fightly against the odds have somehow rubbed off me. I don't think I can feel the same on the white-on-white camp except that most of the time they come out as very defensive.
How is one supposed to make a choice? Based on reports you see in the media? Based on what u see online? Based on looks/age/gender/race/gut feelings? What if the choice doesn't really give you REAL choice?
While I agree with the need more more alternative voices, I do not believe in condoning bad voices. So then, how do I make my choice?
A friend has suggested I blog more to share some of my personal experience since I've got the chance to have real personal contact with the different camps. Actually I would very much like to have a personal document of this as well. But I'm one who need to think thru my post thoroughly before I can post and after a long day at work with overflowing info and thereafter staring at computer screen and listening and re-listening soundbites, I tend to get too tired to sit down and sort out my thoughts for a coherent post. Nonetheless, I shall try.
This election is the 1st time I am eligible to vote (it still remains to be seen if I get to vote tho). This election is the 1st I get to cover as a journalist. It's going to be tough, it's going to be tiring, but now, I'm rearing to go!
Tomorrow is the start of the real action, and I think I might get too excited to sleep properly tonight.
These days, all I tend to talk about is politics. That is something I'd never imagine myself doing 5 years ago. But I'm truly glad to be part of this very exciting elections that seems promising of some real breakthrough.
All the opposition vigour and conviction of fightly against the odds have somehow rubbed off me. I don't think I can feel the same on the white-on-white camp except that most of the time they come out as very defensive.
How is one supposed to make a choice? Based on reports you see in the media? Based on what u see online? Based on looks/age/gender/race/gut feelings? What if the choice doesn't really give you REAL choice?
While I agree with the need more more alternative voices, I do not believe in condoning bad voices. So then, how do I make my choice?
A friend has suggested I blog more to share some of my personal experience since I've got the chance to have real personal contact with the different camps. Actually I would very much like to have a personal document of this as well. But I'm one who need to think thru my post thoroughly before I can post and after a long day at work with overflowing info and thereafter staring at computer screen and listening and re-listening soundbites, I tend to get too tired to sit down and sort out my thoughts for a coherent post. Nonetheless, I shall try.
This election is the 1st time I am eligible to vote (it still remains to be seen if I get to vote tho). This election is the 1st I get to cover as a journalist. It's going to be tough, it's going to be tiring, but now, I'm rearing to go!
Saturday, January 08, 2011
Tourist for the day
How well do you know Singapore?
U might have lived in Singapore for all your life but at the pace that Singapore is changing, I dun think anyone can claim they know Singapore well.
Singaporeans are constantly thinking of going overseas for holiday. The idea of being a tourist in a foreign land is so enticing, so relaxing. But perhaps it's just the mindset and not the place that matters.
So, we decided to be tourist to Singapore for a day. Around Tiong Bahru and Chinatown. And it was most amazingly relaxing. Of course it was helped by the cloudy, cooling weather that helps to put you in the mindset that you are in foreign land. Plus is you will not break a sweat going up and down the numerous steps along the shophouses in Chinatown.
Starting point: Tiong Bahru Market and Food Centre
Sumptous local delights of 178 Lor Mee, 老陈 Fried Carrot Cake and 建柏 Chwee Kueh is the great start. Yums.
Take a slow stroll towards Chinatown.
Walking past my church kindergarten, a place I last visited 20 years ago. Feels like it did not change at all. Nolstalgia nolstagia. Tho the colour of the other kindergarten in front just turns uglier over the years.
Passing by Outram MRT, we decided to hunt for a yummy Japanese cake joint at Duxton Hill. En route, a great find. Bookstore all of a couple of months old called Littered with Books.
Photo credit: Littered with Books
It's so quaint. Never someone to buy many many books, but I always love the feeling of visiting bookstores. Makes me feel intellectual among the wisdom in those millions and billions of words. Tho it's really 自欺欺人。哈！
And the little afternoon tour ends with great cakes from Flor at 2 Duxton Hill.
Earl Grey and Napoleon cakes. Fresh cream, light pastry. So so yums. The Earl Grey is really very Earl Grey, so if you're not an Earl Grey lover, then perhaps you won't like it. Great way to end the touristy day tho. Sip tea, eat cake, people watch.
More tourist days to come. Hehe..
U might have lived in Singapore for all your life but at the pace that Singapore is changing, I dun think anyone can claim they know Singapore well.
Singaporeans are constantly thinking of going overseas for holiday. The idea of being a tourist in a foreign land is so enticing, so relaxing. But perhaps it's just the mindset and not the place that matters.
So, we decided to be tourist to Singapore for a day. Around Tiong Bahru and Chinatown. And it was most amazingly relaxing. Of course it was helped by the cloudy, cooling weather that helps to put you in the mindset that you are in foreign land. Plus is you will not break a sweat going up and down the numerous steps along the shophouses in Chinatown.
Starting point: Tiong Bahru Market and Food Centre
Sumptous local delights of 178 Lor Mee, 老陈 Fried Carrot Cake and 建柏 Chwee Kueh is the great start. Yums.
Take a slow stroll towards Chinatown.
Walking past my church kindergarten, a place I last visited 20 years ago. Feels like it did not change at all. Nolstalgia nolstagia. Tho the colour of the other kindergarten in front just turns uglier over the years.
Passing by Outram MRT, we decided to hunt for a yummy Japanese cake joint at Duxton Hill. En route, a great find. Bookstore all of a couple of months old called Littered with Books.
Photo credit: Littered with BooksIt's so quaint. Never someone to buy many many books, but I always love the feeling of visiting bookstores. Makes me feel intellectual among the wisdom in those millions and billions of words. Tho it's really 自欺欺人。哈！
And the little afternoon tour ends with great cakes from Flor at 2 Duxton Hill.
Earl Grey and Napoleon cakes. Fresh cream, light pastry. So so yums. The Earl Grey is really very Earl Grey, so if you're not an Earl Grey lover, then perhaps you won't like it. Great way to end the touristy day tho. Sip tea, eat cake, people watch.
More tourist days to come. Hehe..
Friday, January 07, 2011
新年新气象
The new blogger customised template is so awesome, I feel like changing the look for my blog everytime I log in. Which is evidently not very often. wahaha.
2010 is officially gone and here comes 2011. The next decade in the 21st Century.
I've been bothered by the fact that I haven't achieved anything significant in 2010. Somehow nothing seems to have etched in my mind. Or perhaps I've done so many things in 2010 that I just don;t remember them anymore.
After looking through my schedule book, I realised the most significant thing I did in 2010 is to pass my driving test and become a qualified driver. Not that I've gone behind the wheel ever since I passed. But still I think it's an achievement. I'd very much like to own a car but with the COE prices right now, that will remain a dream.
It kinda bothers me that whenever friends I haven't met for a while asks me how's life and how's work, I'll reply "it's pretty much the same." I'm not sure whether that's good, I guess to me it obviously isn't and so this prompts me to think what "the next step" should be. It's not that I'm unhappy now, but I just feel dissatified somewhat. There's a subtle difference there. But till now, I've no answer. Sian.
I've given up on making New Year Resolutions. Because I just don't keep to them. But then I realised having some goals or plans makes me look forward to the year more.
So here goes:-
In 2011, I wanna...
Visit Chek Jawa in Pulau Ubin
Learn to turn corners on my bike
Climb Mt Kinabalu
Countdown to 2012 in Taipei
Visit Philippines for UST 400th Anni Celeb! (this one failed, cos it's happening on 28th Jan 2011!)
The list will expand, but that's all for now.. :)
2010 is officially gone and here comes 2011. The next decade in the 21st Century.
I've been bothered by the fact that I haven't achieved anything significant in 2010. Somehow nothing seems to have etched in my mind. Or perhaps I've done so many things in 2010 that I just don;t remember them anymore.
After looking through my schedule book, I realised the most significant thing I did in 2010 is to pass my driving test and become a qualified driver. Not that I've gone behind the wheel ever since I passed. But still I think it's an achievement. I'd very much like to own a car but with the COE prices right now, that will remain a dream.
It kinda bothers me that whenever friends I haven't met for a while asks me how's life and how's work, I'll reply "it's pretty much the same." I'm not sure whether that's good, I guess to me it obviously isn't and so this prompts me to think what "the next step" should be. It's not that I'm unhappy now, but I just feel dissatified somewhat. There's a subtle difference there. But till now, I've no answer. Sian.
I've given up on making New Year Resolutions. Because I just don't keep to them. But then I realised having some goals or plans makes me look forward to the year more.
So here goes:-
In 2011, I wanna...
Visit Chek Jawa in Pulau Ubin
Learn to turn corners on my bike
Climb Mt Kinabalu
Countdown to 2012 in Taipei
The list will expand, but that's all for now.. :)
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Thursday, September 09, 2010
运气，这东西
一个人的运气是否有额度，是否会用完呢？
这个问题，时而都会飘进我脑海里。
因为我觉得我这一生太幸运了，一切都那么顺利，那么lucky！不可思议地让我有点害怕这一切的美好会有结束的一天。杞人忧天吗？或许是。但也希望提醒自己这一切不是必然的。
怎么说呢？从小到大，在学业上一直是顺利的。不算是特别杰出的学生，但总还是前面那几位。一直都遇到好的老师，好的同学。虽然不是每次考试都有佳绩，但到了关键的那几个考试，总算是令人满意。
课业以外，也遇到令自己很满足、很喜爱的活动。记得有一度周末总是排得满满的，而这些我想上的活动都刚好不会撞期。就是那么的刚好，那么的，lucky。
在家里，从小有祖父、祖母、外公、外婆陪伴长大。虽然祖父、祖母这一两年过世了，但很庆幸自己有20多年的机会认识他们，受他们疼爱。许多人连自己的祖父母都没见过面。所以，我是幸运的。Lucky。
虽然不来自大富大贵之家，但从小什么也不缺，要出国有的去，要上什么课，也没问题。父母会斗嘴吵架，跟哥哥和弟弟也常常会起争执、会斗嘴，但这是我们增感情的方式。这比不说话的家人好吧。
毕业后，也不需要找工作，工作就送上门啦。所以，我是没有找工的经验的。这不是lucky，是什么？
这两天，也是幸运天。前天成功考到驾照（虽然是3rd try 啦，但还是yeah!），昨天更不可思议。
早上下起一场倾盆大雨，我正准备出门去采访，担心叫不到德士，在犹豫是否应该Call Cab. 最后决定去碰运气，到楼下有遮盖的停车地点，看看有没有那么巧会有人在哪里下车。怎么知道就是那么巧，一走到楼下，就有人下车，我就这样叫到了德士，而且还不需要淋到一滴雨。结果还提早到了采访地点。到了那里才发现原来有好些地方淹水，其他记者都被塞在路上。回到公司，同事说，她早上在路上塞了一个小时，还因此迟到了。我就叙说了我早上的幸运事。另一名同时说：“哇，你平常一定做很多好事。”
幸运之神总是悄悄的照顾着我。
谢谢妳。
这个问题，时而都会飘进我脑海里。
因为我觉得我这一生太幸运了，一切都那么顺利，那么lucky！不可思议地让我有点害怕这一切的美好会有结束的一天。杞人忧天吗？或许是。但也希望提醒自己这一切不是必然的。
怎么说呢？从小到大，在学业上一直是顺利的。不算是特别杰出的学生，但总还是前面那几位。一直都遇到好的老师，好的同学。虽然不是每次考试都有佳绩，但到了关键的那几个考试，总算是令人满意。
课业以外，也遇到令自己很满足、很喜爱的活动。记得有一度周末总是排得满满的，而这些我想上的活动都刚好不会撞期。就是那么的刚好，那么的，lucky。
在家里，从小有祖父、祖母、外公、外婆陪伴长大。虽然祖父、祖母这一两年过世了，但很庆幸自己有20多年的机会认识他们，受他们疼爱。许多人连自己的祖父母都没见过面。所以，我是幸运的。Lucky。
虽然不来自大富大贵之家，但从小什么也不缺，要出国有的去，要上什么课，也没问题。父母会斗嘴吵架，跟哥哥和弟弟也常常会起争执、会斗嘴，但这是我们增感情的方式。这比不说话的家人好吧。
毕业后，也不需要找工作，工作就送上门啦。所以，我是没有找工的经验的。这不是lucky，是什么？
这两天，也是幸运天。前天成功考到驾照（虽然是3rd try 啦，但还是yeah!），昨天更不可思议。
早上下起一场倾盆大雨，我正准备出门去采访，担心叫不到德士，在犹豫是否应该Call Cab. 最后决定去碰运气，到楼下有遮盖的停车地点，看看有没有那么巧会有人在哪里下车。怎么知道就是那么巧，一走到楼下，就有人下车，我就这样叫到了德士，而且还不需要淋到一滴雨。结果还提早到了采访地点。到了那里才发现原来有好些地方淹水，其他记者都被塞在路上。回到公司，同事说，她早上在路上塞了一个小时，还因此迟到了。我就叙说了我早上的幸运事。另一名同时说：“哇，你平常一定做很多好事。”
幸运之神总是悄悄的照顾着我。
谢谢妳。
Friday, August 20, 2010
人生是一堂上不完的实验课
人生总是充满着“寻找”。
寻找理想的学校。
寻找适合的科系。
寻找那份完美的工作。
寻找知心的人。
或许你已经知道自己要找的是什么，又或许寻寻觅觅后发现那不是你要的，但最终目标都是希望有个完美的结果。
所谓的“完美”，也会不断改变，所以就当它是一堂上不完的实验课，继续寻找心目中的“答案”吧。
昨天在Yes 933听到一首新歌《人生实验课》，由新的本地组合《插班生》演唱。有意思。
寻找理想的学校。
寻找适合的科系。
寻找那份完美的工作。
寻找知心的人。
或许你已经知道自己要找的是什么，又或许寻寻觅觅后发现那不是你要的，但最终目标都是希望有个完美的结果。
所谓的“完美”，也会不断改变，所以就当它是一堂上不完的实验课，继续寻找心目中的“答案”吧。
昨天在Yes 933听到一首新歌《人生实验课》，由新的本地组合《插班生》演唱。有意思。
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
New Look
Totally time for a new look. It's been planned for a loooong time.. finally put to action with the help of the awesome Blogger customization tool.
As with everything in life, it's still an ongoing process...
Be patient.
As with everything in life, it's still an ongoing process...
Be patient.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Vipassana
Have u heard of Vipassana?
It's also my first time hearing it today and the whole idea sounds so crazy and yet kinda enticing...
Vipassana is a form of meditation, and is taught thru a 10-day residential course. In those 10 days, all you do is sleep, eat and meditate (for almost 14 hrs a day). You will not have any form of communication with you, nor any form of entertainment. (No computer, internet, tv, radio even books). You must not even talk to fellow meditators in the course for 9 days. (The reason dinner conversation became this was cos I was too full and said I wanna 封口，so it led to this other form of 封口。）
So, all you have for 9 days is you and your mind.
It's supposed to help u clear your mind, see things in a different light.
And all you'd be eating is fruits and vegetarian food. (think lose weight)
Best part is, it's a free course.
And it's actually held in Singapore at St John's Island.
But maybe I should try normal meditation first. 10 days is so no joke!
It's also my first time hearing it today and the whole idea sounds so crazy and yet kinda enticing...
Vipassana is a form of meditation, and is taught thru a 10-day residential course. In those 10 days, all you do is sleep, eat and meditate (for almost 14 hrs a day). You will not have any form of communication with you, nor any form of entertainment. (No computer, internet, tv, radio even books). You must not even talk to fellow meditators in the course for 9 days. (The reason dinner conversation became this was cos I was too full and said I wanna 封口，so it led to this other form of 封口。）
So, all you have for 9 days is you and your mind.
It's supposed to help u clear your mind, see things in a different light.
And all you'd be eating is fruits and vegetarian food. (think lose weight)
Best part is, it's a free course.
And it's actually held in Singapore at St John's Island.
But maybe I should try normal meditation first. 10 days is so no joke!
Friday, April 09, 2010
E.L.I.T.E.
What is the definition of an elite? Who is an elite? Does going to an elite school automatically makes me an elite? How do you define an elite school anyway?
This is but a label put upon you. Sometimes I feel it's a label I rather not have, but at times I'm happy to have that.
But it always makes me uneasy to be called an elite. There seems to be so many connotations that comes with this label, bad and good, but seems to be mostly bad. Other than not wanting to be associated with the negative traits, I do not feel that I'm good (ie smart or successful) enough to be an elite too.
The ST article last Saturday does more or less resonate for an ex-Rafflesian like myself. Tho I'm only a third Rafflesian (only been to RJ rather than those who are on the Raffles family from Primary to JC), I think the issues in question are applicable to anyone who is lucky enough to be in good schools their whole life. mixing with friends from respectable and mostly loving /supporting families with a great learning environment. Can be someone from HCJC, VJC, TJC, NJC and come from the top 10 or 20 sec schs. It's no doubt the school environment and the people you hang out with shape who you are and how you think and view the world.
I think my first jolt to reality came when, at a inter-school leadership camp, where prefects from my sch (DHS) have combined camps with prefects from other, what they call neighbourhood schools. As we discuss the kind of disciplinary problems we have to deal with and help each other out on how best we can deal with them, you realise how insignificant your problems of catching ppl who have their shirts tucked too far out and wearing ankle socks are, compared to those who deal with students who smoke and steal and fight. You do not face them and you just can't understand. You come from a loving family, and so do most of your friends. You do not have to worry about monetary issues and do not have to work during holidays to make sure you have something to eat at recess when sch starts. You just have to study hard and be a good student. That's your job.
I'm as un-Rafflesian as one can be. I like Mandarin, I'm not good in English. I join the Chinese Orchestra, I study weird subject combinations (more than half of RJC students are in triple science). Many are rather surprised at my decision to chose RJC. And why did I choose RJC? Because I want to study Japanese at A Level (and that's the only place in Singapore that offers it), I want to improve my English, I think I will benefit from a different kind of environment.
Anyway, being Rafflesian or not is also a kind of stereotype isn't it? In the end I still made good friends whom I can clique with, more or less enjoyed my time at the school and come out with better command of English and understanding of what the "elites" are like.
It's so sad to be shedding tears just because you do not get 4 As or 5 As at A levels, relentlessly pursue excellence in every single way possible (be a leader, serve the max no of comm service possible, represent the sch in every competition possible) and not stop to experience what life is about, or think about what life is like for "commoners" out there.
In a way, my choice of profession is already very "un-Rafflesian" as my brother puts it. Most Rafflessians eventually end up as doctors and lawyers and bankers and be top civil servants, earning big money, and I'm but a poor (literally) journalist. They easily earn at least 30% to several times more than what I'm earning right now.
But then, I'm not quite "Rafflesian" to begin with.
Labels. They are never ending.
This is but a label put upon you. Sometimes I feel it's a label I rather not have, but at times I'm happy to have that.
But it always makes me uneasy to be called an elite. There seems to be so many connotations that comes with this label, bad and good, but seems to be mostly bad. Other than not wanting to be associated with the negative traits, I do not feel that I'm good (ie smart or successful) enough to be an elite too.
The ST article last Saturday does more or less resonate for an ex-Rafflesian like myself. Tho I'm only a third Rafflesian (only been to RJ rather than those who are on the Raffles family from Primary to JC), I think the issues in question are applicable to anyone who is lucky enough to be in good schools their whole life. mixing with friends from respectable and mostly loving /supporting families with a great learning environment. Can be someone from HCJC, VJC, TJC, NJC and come from the top 10 or 20 sec schs. It's no doubt the school environment and the people you hang out with shape who you are and how you think and view the world.
I think my first jolt to reality came when, at a inter-school leadership camp, where prefects from my sch (DHS) have combined camps with prefects from other, what they call neighbourhood schools. As we discuss the kind of disciplinary problems we have to deal with and help each other out on how best we can deal with them, you realise how insignificant your problems of catching ppl who have their shirts tucked too far out and wearing ankle socks are, compared to those who deal with students who smoke and steal and fight. You do not face them and you just can't understand. You come from a loving family, and so do most of your friends. You do not have to worry about monetary issues and do not have to work during holidays to make sure you have something to eat at recess when sch starts. You just have to study hard and be a good student. That's your job.
I'm as un-Rafflesian as one can be. I like Mandarin, I'm not good in English. I join the Chinese Orchestra, I study weird subject combinations (more than half of RJC students are in triple science). Many are rather surprised at my decision to chose RJC. And why did I choose RJC? Because I want to study Japanese at A Level (and that's the only place in Singapore that offers it), I want to improve my English, I think I will benefit from a different kind of environment.
Anyway, being Rafflesian or not is also a kind of stereotype isn't it? In the end I still made good friends whom I can clique with, more or less enjoyed my time at the school and come out with better command of English and understanding of what the "elites" are like.
It's so sad to be shedding tears just because you do not get 4 As or 5 As at A levels, relentlessly pursue excellence in every single way possible (be a leader, serve the max no of comm service possible, represent the sch in every competition possible) and not stop to experience what life is about, or think about what life is like for "commoners" out there.
In a way, my choice of profession is already very "un-Rafflesian" as my brother puts it. Most Rafflessians eventually end up as doctors and lawyers and bankers and be top civil servants, earning big money, and I'm but a poor (literally) journalist. They easily earn at least 30% to several times more than what I'm earning right now.
But then, I'm not quite "Rafflesian" to begin with.
Labels. They are never ending.
Friday, April 02, 2010
it's another great day out with the girls today. nv fails to be energy and/or events filled. there was no USS or roller coaster like we envisioned it to be, but there was still trusty Sentosa and a fulfilling meal.
but then, it was the results of the random decision to do a personality test among all on the grp that amazes me. and so did the discussion over supper after.
we can be so different, and yet so complimentary. there is always a place for u in this world, a way you can contribute.
let the powers combine.
but then, it was the results of the random decision to do a personality test among all on the grp that amazes me. and so did the discussion over supper after.
we can be so different, and yet so complimentary. there is always a place for u in this world, a way you can contribute.
let the powers combine.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
梁智强VS老虎伍兹记者会
“梁智强”三个字，大家应该已经听腻了、看腻了吧？还是觉得意犹未尽呢？
前天采访了他的记者会，场面比巨星来访还轰动，情节也比8频道剧集还戏剧化。虽然接到任务时，心里是相当不愿意去采访这类纯碎属于娱乐八卦，干预别人私事的新闻，但能在本地体验到如此轰动的场面，也应该仅此一次。
不计其数的人也已经对此事件，通过各个平台发表了自己的意见。我也忍不住要插一句。
我说了什么？请点阅：958新闻室博客
Sunday, January 17, 2010
《听说》
我已经见人就推荐啦，但还是想要在这里推荐一下这部台湾小品《听说》。
没有带着任何期望，甚至不知道故事情节就跟随台湾朋友去看了这部电影。或许就是因为没有任何期望，所以它出乎意料带给了我惊喜。是一部让我笑得很用力，也哭的很用力的电影。当然加上男主角很帅啦。
我发现，不要带任何期待去看一部电影，收获总是比较大的。最近因为大家都把Sherlock Holmes说的很好而慕名进电影院看，却稍感失望。就像朋友说的，她在排山倒海的推荐下，看了《海角7号》，看了以后，就觉得也不过如此。而这部电影只冲着是台湾片和彭于晏（很帅的男主角）去看，也给她带来意外的惊喜。
所以，我也知道让大家抱有很大期望去看一部电影的败笔。所以，如果你要去看《听说》，请忘了我以上写的。:P
Thursday, January 07, 2010
avatar 之狠篇
阔别N年以后，我爸爸终于带我妈再度进入电影院。
是什么电影这么有魅力？就是史上以最快速度破十亿票房的Avatar.
可是3D电影没有中文字幕，害他们看得蒙查查。结果换来我妈说：
“看什么烂电影。人不像人鬼不像鬼，很恶心。打来打去炸来炸去，一点都不好看。浪费我3个小时坐在那边，还睡着。浪费11块钱。没有跟我讲是什么戏就拉我去看！”
深受好评的Avatar就这样给我妈骂得一文不值。我和我弟听了都不知道该从哪里开始跟我妈解释电影好在哪里。
我爸爸好不容易请妈妈去看电影，而且是3D Avatar， 却被老妈骂得狗血淋头。好可怜的爸爸。
是什么电影这么有魅力？就是史上以最快速度破十亿票房的Avatar.
可是3D电影没有中文字幕，害他们看得蒙查查。结果换来我妈说：
“看什么烂电影。人不像人鬼不像鬼，很恶心。打来打去炸来炸去，一点都不好看。浪费我3个小时坐在那边，还睡着。浪费11块钱。没有跟我讲是什么戏就拉我去看！”
深受好评的Avatar就这样给我妈骂得一文不值。我和我弟听了都不知道该从哪里开始跟我妈解释电影好在哪里。
我爸爸好不容易请妈妈去看电影，而且是3D Avatar， 却被老妈骂得狗血淋头。好可怜的爸爸。
Monday, December 07, 2009
history lesson
Did you know why the ABC market in Bukit Merah is so named?
Did you know what used to be where Ikea at Alexandra is now?
Was taking the cab home from work after my night shift the other day when I got a history lesson from the cab driver instead. Was quite irritated with him cos he can't quite stop talking from the moment I got in, and then he asked if my colleague was rich cos he fetched her home before and remembered she lived in landed property and even remember exactly where. First I was disgusted and then I was horrified. Who knows what he can do with these info. Taxi uncles are scary.
As much as I found him irritating, he was quite educational as well.
Apparently, Ikea used to be the warehouse for ABC stout beer. The area was a very bustling area, and Alexandra Village Market used to be the train station. Jalan Bukit Merah was non-existent then (then is prob abt 50 yrs ago). As there is a market behind the ABC warehouse, which is somewhat of a landmark then, people decide to call the market ABC market. Subsequently, ABC moved, the warehouse gave way to other things and is now IKEA, but people still call the market ABC market. It has an official name, but most ppl can't identify with the name, so the name stayed.
Now that's something I never know tho I've known the market since I was way little cos my Grandpa's factory used to be across the street.
Well, the taxi uncle actually asked me how long I had been staying in the area, and how come I did not know this story. No one ever told me that loh.. I mean it's "nice" of him to share this story, but dun need to say in that manner k. Just as I was warming up to him, he zham break in front of the red light and I almost got strangled by the seat belt. (I was sooo glad I had the seat belt on, as I've come to conclude taxi uncles after midnight is not always sane n alert.) Anyway, he was too engrossed in talking to realised the light turned red and as there was a speed camera there so he had to stop.
And just before I alighted, he said he was hoping I would be the one taking his cab when I was walking towards the taxi stand as he remembered where I stayed and that means he can still go town area to get more customers. He said my colleague stayed at too ulu a place so he'd rather not ferry her. OMG. I wish I'd nv have to take his cab again.
Did you know what used to be where Ikea at Alexandra is now?
Was taking the cab home from work after my night shift the other day when I got a history lesson from the cab driver instead. Was quite irritated with him cos he can't quite stop talking from the moment I got in, and then he asked if my colleague was rich cos he fetched her home before and remembered she lived in landed property and even remember exactly where. First I was disgusted and then I was horrified. Who knows what he can do with these info. Taxi uncles are scary.
As much as I found him irritating, he was quite educational as well.
Apparently, Ikea used to be the warehouse for ABC stout beer. The area was a very bustling area, and Alexandra Village Market used to be the train station. Jalan Bukit Merah was non-existent then (then is prob abt 50 yrs ago). As there is a market behind the ABC warehouse, which is somewhat of a landmark then, people decide to call the market ABC market. Subsequently, ABC moved, the warehouse gave way to other things and is now IKEA, but people still call the market ABC market. It has an official name, but most ppl can't identify with the name, so the name stayed.
Now that's something I never know tho I've known the market since I was way little cos my Grandpa's factory used to be across the street.
Well, the taxi uncle actually asked me how long I had been staying in the area, and how come I did not know this story. No one ever told me that loh.. I mean it's "nice" of him to share this story, but dun need to say in that manner k. Just as I was warming up to him, he zham break in front of the red light and I almost got strangled by the seat belt. (I was sooo glad I had the seat belt on, as I've come to conclude taxi uncles after midnight is not always sane n alert.) Anyway, he was too engrossed in talking to realised the light turned red and as there was a speed camera there so he had to stop.
And just before I alighted, he said he was hoping I would be the one taking his cab when I was walking towards the taxi stand as he remembered where I stayed and that means he can still go town area to get more customers. He said my colleague stayed at too ulu a place so he'd rather not ferry her. OMG. I wish I'd nv have to take his cab again.
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