Lower Price at the Pump?

I just read this article from The Star Online today. Could it be true?

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The Star Online, Thursday July 31, 2008

Fuel prices may drop soon, say ministers

By MAZWIN NIK ANIS

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysians may pay less for fuel soon, as the Cabinet is mulling over the possibility of lowering the pump prices.

Several Cabinet Ministers disclosed that the matter was studied during their weekly meeting yesterday but declined to elaborate, saying that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi was expected to make an announcement soon.

<the complete article>

10 Part Time Business Ideas For Women

Written by Zul (skorcareer.com), 30 JULY 2008

For a woman, taking a part time job or business as a car washer, delivery person, gardener, handyman, carpenter, and other physically demanding jobs would be seem as too overwhelming.

You will need something moderate. Something relatively easier, manageable, and yet can generate enough returns.

Here are 10 part time business ideas or jobs that can be done right away.

1. Jewelry and personal accessories

Yes, women crave for jewelry and personal accessories. They can just talk about the topic all they long. Why not turn the hobby into something that can churn out profits? For those who want to take it to another level, go for customized accessories and play around with beads, pendants, crystals, earrings and so on. It’s time to use your creativity to the limit, come up with something extraordinary, and raised some eyebrows.

2. Emceeing or Deejaying

If your work colleagues find you too talkative, you are possibly half way from being a deejay! Surely a good deejay not only need to be vocal but must also know to use the right words at the right time, possess calmness, composure and all other qualities. If you are not sure whether you have the desired skills for an emcee, fret not. There are many companies holding courses and seminars on this and it’s time to make your presence felt.

3. Freelance writer, blogger

Perhaps one of the most popular part time jobs around. Most likely half of the books sold in the bookstore near you were not written by full time authors. Coincidentally, more than half of the best selling books out there were written by those whose full time jobs are estate agents, financial advisors, teachers, lawyers, pilots, entrepreneurs, consultants and so on. Let’s join the bandwagon.

4. Handicrafts

Something similar like jewelry business. The best of handicrafts of course come with uniqueness and rarity, i.e. something that people can’t just simply find it in the hypermarket across the street. It must also be beautiful. You can work with handbags, hats, flowers, baskets, cloths and many other items. If you love travel, craft and souvenir shops are must visits. You will be surprised to find how weird and unusual some of the stuff are.

5. Accounting work

This work is obviously relevant with those who have strong background in finance and accounting field. Other than streamlining accurate monthly consolidation of your company accounts, make use of your skills to offer similar service to your friends, neighbors, sisters, mother in law and canteen operators. Approach your favorite small grocery store owner and convince him how good you are at managing his accounts.

6. Teaching, tutoring and coaching

Another popular part time job. Everyone must be good at something, and that everyone, including you, can teach a thing or two. Are you a piano six grader? Do you hold a black belt in karate? Do you swim? Can you make a bunny appear from a hat? Are you an actor? A singer maybe? Can you teach maths for a first grade student? Can you coach a high school basketball team? The list is endless.

7. Grooming service/image consulting

Grooming service can cover practically all fields and elements. Pet care service, saloon and kids grooming are just some simple examples. Image consulting is also an overlooked field, and with people are now embracing faster and faster change in life, many forget there is a niche that can make everyone happy. So, help people to make them look fabulous, and get paid for it.

8. Fund raiser

At first, fund raising can sound like a sales job but really, you must look it from another perspective. Fund raising is a charity, and as long as you do it right, people with good conscience will be more than willing to contribute. The job involves you representing a certain legitimate company, make calls and approach professionals, managers and the public, create awareness of the activity,and collect donation. Your earning can be hourly paid, or some percentage fees agreed with the company.

9. Cooking/catering

Yes, culinary services can take up a lot of resources, but not for those who have deep passion in cooking. Those who love cooking will consider it a labor of love. Where catering is concerned, it does not need to be a major function with thousands of guests, but handling the service for a small reception, house warming and barbeque events would be good enough for a start. If you find catering too overwhelming, why not settle down for teaching young women cooking? That does not sound like a bad idea at all, does it?

10. Interior designing

For years I have been meaning to find a good interior designer that comes with affordable prices. There are many professional designers out there who can do the job at cost but there are also amateurs who have this fantastic knack of interior designing. Sometimes, these amateurs can do an equally fabulous work, but with much difference in price. Perhaps, you are one of them?

How I Met Your Mother (HIMYM)

Wow !

I’m sure everyone has their own personal opinion, but for me, it was as Barney (Neil Patric Harris) would say it: “Legendary” … & totally AWESOME !

I’ve just completed all 60+ episodes for all the first 3 seasons, thanks to Sir Kamal who just handed the DVDs to me one night & said “Bro,  this is HIGHLY recommended” and I must say, my investment of time over the past 2 weeks (over 24 hours in total).

It took me more than a month after having those DVDs that I finally found some time to watch them. And… once I started, I was immediately HOOKED! It was a classic case of sitcom addiction…

The series is hilarious, witty, sarcastic, honest, romance, confidence, trust and most of all FRIENDSHIP. We may not have gone through every kind of event as depicted in this series but somehow, to me, its a reflection on life and how its not always 100% perfect. What you plan may not be what you exactly get.

On top of that, it proves to some extent how those small unimportant looking decisions that we make in life will have a MAJOR impact later on as we grow up.

I wish I will always have Barney’s “suit up” enthusiasm or Robin’s ‘intelligence’ or Marshall & Lilly’s  ’sweet romantic bond’ or Ted’s …………… well, everyone knows a ‘Ted’ here and there.

I can’t wait for the 4th season due this coming September.

I do hope for those who are in the 15 – 30 age group take time off to watch yet another cool production from CBS. As Barney would say : “1 UP !”

Weekend Wife Dilemma

Here’s a good blog for all you ladies out there who might be facing this situation :

http://weekendwife.blogspot.com/

It belongs to a swet couple who are dear friends of mine & we’ve known
each other for quite some time.

The picture above is just for illustration.

Input from Zig

My conclusion? NEVER GIVE UP !!!

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Anything Worth Doing Is Worth Doing Poorly By Zig Ziglar

Chances are superb that when you saw the heading of this article you did a double-take and thought to yourself, “That is ridiculous!”  But, let us think together and I believe you will agree that the observation is correct.  Look at it this way: If you were to quit any endeavor because you did miserably on the first try, your life would be infinitely poorer.  Think of it this way: When you watch sports professionals, whether golf, tennis or any other sport, play near-perfect games, you probably stand in amazement.  What you’re watching is an individual who has literally hit thousands of golf balls, or tennis balls, many of them poorly, and has taken hundreds of lessons from teaching pros to improve his or her game.  They understood from the beginning that if they were going to play good golf or tennis, they would play a lot of poor games along the way.

Read more…

Galeria Sri Perdana

Wow !

This is soooo amazing ! Just happened to browse through Arkib Negara’s Site & found this cool piece. It looks so 80’s but has been witness to uncountable memorable events throughout the past 2 deacades.

I do hope I’ll have the time to drop by one fine day…

(courtesy of http://www.arkib.gov.my/english/sriperdana.htm)

Galeria Sri Perdana was officially opened by Dato’ Seri Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, on 20 December 2003. Sri Perdana was the former official residence of the fourth Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, from 23 August 1983 till 18 October 1999 when the government moved to Putrajaya. In 2000, it was handed over to the National Archives to be converted into Galeria Sri Perdana in appreciation of Tun Dr Mahathir’s valuable contributions to the nation during his 22-year tenure as Prime Minister. The main areas of the residence have been preserved while the others have been turned into exhibition areas. As such, much of the original structure and interior decoration have been maintained and renovations were confined to making it into a public gallery. The landscape too has been kept in very much the same way as it was when Tun Dr Mahathir was staying there. Visitors will get to see an official residence of the highest ranking civil servant at close range. Generally this is meant to foster closer ties between the leader and his rakyat; in particular, it will mean getting to know Tun Dr Mahathir and his wife, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah, better so as to appreciate the contributions and struggles of the Prime Minister and his family.

EXHIBITION LEVEL ONE

Main Drawing Room The room, for receiving important local and foreign guests, showcases wood carvings on the walls with local designs highlighting fine craftsmanship. Meeting Room This room was the venue for several official activities, including those of associations and organisations. It had also been used as a venue for the live broadcast of election results. Drawing Room II Often used as an anteroom or waiting-room before dinner. The ceiling is unique in that it was painted in many colours by Uzbekistan artists in the style of West Asia. Dining Hall With wooden walls and carved wooden furniture complemented by a plaster ceiling with West Asian geometrical carvings. Corner for Cutting Hair Visitors can see for themselves the equipment and accessories used by the Prime Minister’s barber who was specially brought in. Carpentry Room Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s favourite hobby was carpentry. This room is equipped with carpentry machines and appliances and displays the fruits of his handiwork. Banquet Kitchen The place where food for the Prime Minister and his family and for guests was prepared. It is equipped with food warmers and chillers before the food was brought out to the dining table. Screening Room Screens “A Day in the Life of the Prime Minister”. The room is equipped with audio-visual equipment, and seating for 32 people. Exhibition on Level 1 In this area visitors can view selected items from the Sri Perdana collection before proceeding to the exhibition on Level 2.

LEVEL 2 Collection of Hats and Shoes This space houses a collection of Tun Dr Mahathir’s favourites which have been kept to remind him of the occasions which he attended.

Master Bedroom This was the bedroom of Tun Dr Mahathir and his wife. It has an antique bed and cupboard, chairs and tables, etc. Dressing Room The room where the first couple readied themselves for a formal function, and also where clothes are kept. Reading Room All sorts of reading and reference materials are kept here, eg books, magazines, newspapers, bulletins, journals and dictionaries. Tun Dr Mahathir also used this room to prepare his speeches. Family Kitchen This kitchen was used to prepare the family’s daily meals. Tun Dr Mahathir likes to cook and he and his wife often cooked for the family here. Balcony The couple had breakfast here every day and enjoyed the fresh morning air while watching the construction of the Petronas Twin Towers and the Kuala Lumpur Tower. Level 2 Exhibition At this level are displayed the awards and gifts that Tun Dr Mahathir received as Prime Minister. Marina’s and Maizura’s Rooms These two rooms have been kept in their original state and are equipped with furniture as well as clothes and books which they read. Guest Bedroom Specially for Sri Perdana guests and as the bridal room for the children’s wedding. It was used by the Queen for repose when she visited Sri Perdana. Lower Level Main Kitchen A wet kitchen located on the ground floor, used during Hari Raya for ‘open house’ functions. All appliances are displayed together with the menu and recipes. Laundry Room All appliances such as washing machines and dryers as well as detergents are displayed here.

OTHER EXHIBITIONS

Perdana Theatre The theatre screens activities that took place at Sri Perdana including segments of visits by foreign dignitaries. It can seat 48 people. Exhibition of Cars This is an exhibition of cars and a high-performance motorcycle that was given to and used by Tun Dr Mahathir while he was Prime Minister. Green House Inspired by Tun Dr Mahathir himself. It has temperate plants and seedlings. Bird Park Several species of birds, bantam fowl and some other types of animals such as the rabbit that are Tun Dr Mahathir’s favourites are kept here.

LOCATION MAP

Jalan Terengganu Off Jalan Damansara Kuala Lumpur Tel: 03-20720033 Faks: 03-20722664 Visiting Hours Tuesday – Thursday 10.00 am – 5.30 pm Friday 10.00 am – 12.00 pm 3.00 pm – 5.30 pm Admission Free Galeria Sri Perdana is closed every Monday except on public holidays and school holidays.

Travel Destinations

Have you travelled lately? I’ve been to some of these places but not all of them. So, I’m sure we can get a feeling of foreign ambiance before we actually visit the actual locations that they replicate, thousands of miles & Ringgits away…

The Star Sunday July 6, 2008

Honeymoon bliss

Compiled by FARIDAH BEGUM

Honeymooning domestically is just as good as doing so abroad.Bukit Tinggi, Pahang

None can compare to the French influenced Colmar Tropicale, which is only about an hour’s drive from the capital city of Kuala Lumpur and boasts of not just a setting but the ambience is not unlike the real towns of France that it emulates. Perfect for a weekend or just a short honeymoon, it is sure to appeal to the hearts of newly-weds for a repeated honeymoon trip.

Cameron Highlands, Pahang

The highlands offer honeymooning couples a great English setting. Not having to fork out thousands to get to the outskirts of London, you can enjoy afternoon tea, cool weather and many cold evenings together with good steamboats and Continental meals at most restaurants here.

The Andaman, Langkawi, Kedah

Situated in the picturesque Datai Bay, honeymooning couples will find the tranquillity a great help in keeping the romance burning. Lots to do with the natural setting such as bird watching, sunsets and even a round of golf if either one or both are enthusiasts.

Serai di Lanjut, Pahang

If a timeless holiday is on the cards, then this place is just right. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life coupled with the slow and easy pace here, one can just stretch out on the white sandy beaches for hours on end or play a round of golf or even go river fishing.

Pulau Perhentian, Terengganu

Many couples have met on scuba diving trips and this can account for quite a percentage of marriages. It is only right and perhaps understandable if they choose to go on a scuba diving honeymoon, especially where they first met. Pulau Perhentian may be the place or even a good alternative. Known as one of the best diving posts in the country, Pulau Perhentian is actually made up of two islands, namely Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil.

Pangkor Island Resort, Pangkor, Perak

Look forward to sunset cruises, traditional Malay massages and lots of time together in the beautiful resort that was voted the best in the West Coast. With a private beach exclusively for guests of the resort, you can plan many outdoor activities such as jungle trekking, archery, parasailing and cycling.

Permai Rainforest Resort, Kuching, Sarawak

If your wish is to have a taste of everything, then this is the perfect getaway for you. You get a package of the sun, sea, beach, mountains, waterfalls and modern facilities all in one place. Just 30 minutes from Kuching, you will want for nothing except more time to do all the things you want together as a couple, and more.

Tanjong Jara, Terengganu

Noted for its pristine turquoise waters and its hidden location, there are lots that a honeymooning couple can do here. For one, it boasts of a good spa, just right for a couple that has gone through the mill with the preparation of the wedding and the crush of relatives. It also provides the couple a chance to be just by themselves and enjoy their newly entwined lives together.

Pulai Springs Desaru, Johor

Designed like an ancient Malay palace, Pulai Springs is on one of the unspoilt beaches south of the East Coast in the peninsula. Like most resorts, it promises the excitement of a beach resort yet maintains a calm and serene atmosphere that is conducive for honeymooning and gives couples time to acquaint themselves further besides enjoying the array of activities available here such as golf and jungle trekking, and with an untouched forest that casts a romantic glow in the evenings.

Nexus Resort Karambunai, Sabah

Winner of many prestigious awards, this place has been described as heaven on earth with its natural setting and the numerous activities that come with it. A lagoon park fulfils one’s desires of water games and the 30ha nature park within the resort gives honeymooning couples hours of trekking together.