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Homecoming, again!
Another year, another trip home to Malaysia in December, 2008. It was my second in just over a year. Wow! Considering before 2008, I made only 2 trips home in 32 years, that's including my previous homecoming in 2007! On this trip, I spent most of my time in Singapore where two of my sisters and I flew in from Toronto via Beijing (more about that later). What a difference a year made! The little baby Cheng Han has now become a toddler! Then there're always family "additions" since my last visit, like a new baby grandchild of my sister. And, here's another cutie. Please don't ask me for their names! 
I'm afraid I have lost count of how many little ones that call me "great uncle"! 
From Singapore, we travelled by car to Muar, my home town. Once again, my purpose is to visit family and friends. I didn't see many friends, but was fortunate that my good friend, Boon Chai, the "BP Shanghai Executive" was on vacation in Malaysia. He took the trouble to come and see me in Muar. No doubt I'd be lost if I have to find him as I'm still very much a stranger in my home town! With the limited time, I did get a chance to visit Melaka, a historic town about 45 km from Muar. Growing up in Muar, I used to go to Melaka a lot. Not that I remember much, but I do recall as a teenager going there on a bicycle all the way from Muar! Not sure if I'd want to do that today. I'm too old for that! Here's another shot of an old street in Melaka. And how can I forget these wooden clogs that we used to wear in the kitchen and bathroom.
Back in Singapore after Muar visit, for my last sightseeing we went to Botanic Garden, a place I haven't been in at least 33 years! Just before leaving for Canada, a 3rd world country according to my friends (and they're right!), it was a privilege to be invited again for dinner by Nicky, my good friend from high school and college room mate in U.K. Although I didn't get a photo of his 2 boys, here's Nicky and his daughter.
Before my homecoming trip, my 2 sisters from Malaysia were visiting in Canada. At the end of their Canadian visit, I went back with them. We were supposed to fly from Toronto to Singapore, with connection in Hong Kong. Unfortunately, our flight from Toronto to Hong Kong was delayed, which meant we would miss our connection. The staff at Air Canada Concierge in Toronto frantically looked for alternative routes, including flights via Europe. For some reasons, flights to Singapore were booked solid that day. Our only viable option was to connect at Beijing with a 7-hour layover. Upon arrival at the gate in Beijing, to my surprise an Air Canada Concierge staff was there to ensure we got our transfers and pass through Chinese immigration. Naturally, my sisters were very impressed, and so was I. Granted, it doesn't hurt to have Super Elite status. Nevertheless, I must say the AC staff went beyond the call of duty to assist us. So, kudos to the staff of Air Canada Concierge!
All in all, it was a very good trip. Hopefully, it will be another homecoming sometime this year!
Happy New Year, everyone, and All the Best in 2009!
Posted by Ba on Thursday 01 January 2009 - 15:56:25
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Delta Who?
I normally find music that I like through traditional sources, such as the radio or I happen to see a video on MuchMusic. Sometimes you get exposed or introduced to music you like through an unlikely source. After years of resisting a data device (not wanting to do email while at the airport was a good enough reason), I decided to get a BlackBerry Bold. It came loaded with a few sample videos, including the awesome In This Life by the drop-dead gorgeous Australian beau, Delta Goodrem. She's definitely worth spending some time and money listening to. Got a few of her songs from Apple's iTunes for my iPod Touch.
Posted by Ba on Monday 24 November 2008 - 15:24:23
Canadian Election is all about one man
I came to Canada 30 years ago as a young immigrant from Malaysia. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to establish my career and able to live a reasonably comfortable life in Canada. Regardless of my background, I am first and forth most, a Canadian. This is the country that I've come to love and where I call home. Over the years, I've voted Liberals and I've voted Progressive Conservatives in federal and provincial elections. My vote is generally influenced by the leader of the party, followed by the party's platform. Whether they like to admit or not, I believe that majority of Canadians are either "small c" conservatives or "small l" liberal.
For me, this election is all about one man, and who else but Stephen Harper. As former president of the National Citizens Coalition, Harper is the most right wing Canadian prime minister we have ever seen. Until Stephen Harper emerged as a political leader, I have never felt so strongly against someone who wants to lead our country down a path that I believe majority of Canadians do not want. Mr. Harper simply wants a majority government, the sole reason for this unnecessary election. We have a government that is essentially a one-man show. Mr. Harper's approval rating speaks more about the real or perceived weakness of the opposition leaders than about him. Given the choices available, I can see why the Conservatives are leading the polls. I'm actually fine with Stephen Harper being the Prime Minister. I just hope he doesn't get his majority. This is not about "fear mongering". There is nothing hidden about Stephen Harper's agenda. His views are well documented, and I see no reason to repeat them. Mr. Harper's views represent a small minority of Canadians. I do not share his views and I believe that majority of Canadians don't either. It's not the Conservative Party that I dislike, it's just Stephen Harper's views that I have a problem with. In previous federal elections, I've voted for Brian Mulroney (twice), Kim Campbell and Jean Charest. But I can never ever vote for Stephen Harper. This is the wrong man to lead this country down the path that will fundamentally change what Canada is all about: compassionate, culturally diversified, and a harmonized society.
Just last week I was thinking: If Harper gets his majority, it will be a sad day for Canada and a very sad day for me. You can count me among 60% or more who didn't vote Conservatives.
Now with the polls showing Conservatives on a downward slide, I'm hopeful that before they cast their votes on October 14, 2008, Canadians will realize Stephen Harper being who he is. Perhaps there's hope for Canada after all.
Posted by Ba on Wednesday 08 October 2008 - 23:30:03
In memory of Marilyn Chan and Mark Seltzer
July 2008 marks the 10th anniversary of the passing of my good friend and colleague, Marilyn Chan and her husband Mark Seltzer. I can recall hearing the news of their tragic death like it was yesterday. I didn't know Mark very well, but I used to chat frequently with Marilyn who was a trusted friend and mentor to many. Ironically, I was working in Montreal at that time, just as I'm now. What made it so hard then was that I was the only one from out of town. I was totally devastated by Marilyn's death. I had no idea why but it actually hit me harder than the death of my parents. As they say, time is a great healer. It took me a while, and yes, I still miss her. I still feel the same as my thoughts of 10 years ago, as written here.
Posted by Ba on Sunday 10 August 2008 - 23:07:29
My kid & my money went to University of Toronto!
Actually, the T-Shirt that my daughter Michelle got me, says "My Kid & My Money Go to the University of Toronto". But, I figure now that she's graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, I can change it to past tense.
Congratulations, Michelle!
As a parent, this is a proud moment. It's a major accomplishment, and the beginning of a bright future for a young woman. Well, it's also the day that I've fulfilled my part. The rest is up to her. OK, kid, you're on your own! I can now start saving for my BMW! With any luck, I may just get it before I turn 60 ...
That's the family (me, Michelle, Christine, Andrew) at Michelle's graduation. Click the picture to enlarge.
More pictures can be seen here.
Posted by Ba on Tuesday 24 June 2008 - 09:31:00
