Teaching is not a bed of roses. Rather, it's much prettier than that.

         Often regarded as one of the oldest and noblest professions in the world, teaching continues to be a career choice of those who wish to help children build their potential in various aspects. As we celebrate Teachers Day on 16 May, I wish to share my humble opinions on why challenges faced by teachers are chances for them to make a difference as they cherish the bittersweet moments in their career.

         As a teacher who has been in the profession for over a decade, I believe that chances and challenges would help with the career growth of every teacher. Frankly speaking, in the early years of teaching, I perceived problems as pain that would kill my patience and passion in educating the schoolchildren. But, as time goes by, I begin to realise that everything that makes or breaks my day at work is both a chance and a challenge for me to perform better as I learn to manage my emotional well-being. Experience is truly the best teacher.

         Needless to say, teaching is more than finishing the syllabus, preparing exercises for enrichment activities and grading papers. It is the study of human characters shaped by children’s social backgrounds and their special abilities. True teachers would be intrigued by unique personalities of pupils as the process of discovering the latter’s learning styles could be an exciting adventure. Chances are teachers will be surprised and enlightened by the findings that would create an opportunity for them to expand their creativity in teaching as they wish to cater the needs of different types of learners.

         However, the challenges may be greater when dealing with demotivated, disrespectful and delinquent pupils who might be too hard to handle. In this case, teachers may need to turn the judgemental thinking into an analytical one. In fact, this is how we do justice to children with struggles we may know nothing about. Indeed, it takes a second to judge a person but it takes a special strength to stop and think. Pupils who look frazzled and uninterested may suffer from sleep deprivation because they have to work to help their poor family. Those who fail to complete their homework may need to juggle between taking care of their ailing parents or younger siblings and catching up on the lessons. Those with bad attitude may come from a broken family and live a loveless life. These cases may be never-ending problems to teachers, but this is the time they take teaching to the next level and deal with the challenges smartly and heroically by saving and helping the problematic pupils, instead of hating or punishing them. This is also how teachers apply love, respect, happiness and humanity (LR2H) in educating the children.

         Teaching is not a bed of roses. It is a room full of beautiful flowers. And, with teachers’ unconditional love for teaching and learning, it will become a home for enthusiastic educators and lifelong learners.

 

A TRUE INSPIRATION

                                                            

    It is not every day that we get to hear the name of a Malaysian being announced as the winner at the Academy Awards, and the moment our country was mentioned in the acceptance speech was the icing on the cake, thanks to Michelle Yeoh, an international superstar, superhero and superwoman who made history at the Oscars.

 

    The much-awaited Oscar win has not only put Malaysia on the world map, but it has also taught us plenty of lessons.

 

    Indeed, it is never too late to accomplish goals in life. As a matter of fact, it takes nearly a century for the Academy to discover and acknowledge our local talents.   

 

    It was not an easy win for Michelle as she has been in the global film making industry for decades. Her inspiring career journey and success story should make us realise that facing challenges are inevitable and the best way to overcome them is by walking through and moving on no matter how hard it gets. With sheer determination and patience, there will come a time when our tears of triumphs would wash away all the pain and misery that come with us throughout our journey.

 

    Also, we need to enjoy the process instead of waiting for successes to happen. As the philosophical law of attraction suggests, positive thoughts would lead to positive results. It is important for us to grow a positive mindset and believe that something good is on its way. To accomplish our goals in a short time may make us a smart person who gains immediate satisfaction, but  to experience delayed gratification made of blood, sweat and tears would make us a wise one. A winner might take it all, but a true champion learns all the lessons and live a better life.

 

Everyone is blessed with a fair share of bittersweet moments in life. Behind the cheerful expressions and good appearance of a person, there may be struggles that we know nothing about. Figuratively speaking, a book may tell a mind-blowing story, but some pages may be torn and dusty, distracting readers’ attention and affecting their levels of interest, but the beautiful ending makes them forget about all the challenging chapters faced in the process of reading. This is why we need to trust the process, focus on what really matters and avoid being judgmental. With this healthy mindset, it would be no surprise that someday, somebody from our homeland would win a Nobel Prize, making us all feel overwhelmed, just like the country’s sweetheart Michelle Yeoh did.

 

 

 

 LET’S TAKE A BREAK

 

We all need to take a break from work, studies and everything else that makes us feel frazzled. The world will never stop keeping us busy so it depends on our smart strategy to ensure that we are physically, mentally and spiritually healthy as we strive for work-life balance.

I have been a workaholic for a long time and I believe many out there share the same boat with me. Sometimes, we need to compromise our health and happiness as we are snowed under with work even on weekends. Despite the fact that the efforts eventually paid off with awards and recognitions, one would still wonder if the entire process was actually worth it and healthy.

As I decided to slow down and take one thing at a time, I was blessed with a new friend who helped me enjoy life all over again. Off days were no more about perfecting some work as sharing stories over a good meal and going to the cinema sounded like better options. It was wonderful to experience the friendly gestures of handshakes and hugs once again when I almost forgot about the power of human touch and its ability to heal a weary heart and a worrying mind. Needless to say, it felt way better than the times I laid my hands on papers and computers while completing some work. Amazingly, the shared moments with a dear friend helped me with my anxiety and overthinking, and nobody would trade this peaceful state of mind for anything. This positive energy gave me freedom and confidence money couldn’t buy.

 

At times, life can be so serious, forcing us to be too hard on ourselves. But, let’s not miss the excitement of living meaningfully by connecting with those who would make us feel comfortable to open up. Funnily enough, we should thank those who have made us chuckle or burst into laughter with their silly jokes and playful behaviours, as they have successfully distracted our minds and helped us escape from never-ending worries and problems. And that’s what makes life strangely beautiful.

THE TWO WONDERFUL GIFTS

                                                                          2022

    The year 2022 may have been a roller-coaster ride for many while others enjoy a smooth sailing journey. However it has been, we have all made it to the final month, according to the Gregorian calendar.

    In 2017, researchers Professor Joseph Le Doux and Richard Brown conclude that emotions are not innately programmed into our brain, but, in fact, are cognitive states resulting from the gathering of information. As normal human beings, it is nearly impossible for us to look back without being emotional as we think about how far we have come and how things have happened. Arguably speaking, when the end of the year comes, it is not about a happy or sad ending of yet another chapter in our life. Rather, it is about a blessed journey that tests us with challenges that come with hidden lessons.

    Oftentimes, challenges and lessons are associated with ordeals or tragedies. Friends, family and even strangers would tell us to stay strong and patient when we fail in examinations, get divorced or lose a loved one, for instance. Little do we realise that those experiencing euphoric moments are challenged too, although in a different way. It is a challenge for those who excel in studies to stay humble despite achieving something truly impressive after trying so hard. Those who get married need to contain their excitement instead of bragging about their perfect partners, believing that they are lucky in love, unlike certain people. And, those welcoming a newborn need to be sensitive and avoid making cynical or hurtful remarks that could offend childless married couples as the jokes are not funny. In short, overcoming challenges and passing the life tests with flying colours are about having self-control, empathy, maturity as well as respect towards others.   

      We should be grateful that we were born with two wonderful gifts; a mind to think and a heart to feel. Analogically speaking, when we receive  a present from somebody as a symbol of celebration or appreciation, it proves that we are someone special in the person’s life. Knowing this fact, we will cherish the present and use it well. Likewise, God would want us to enjoy and utilise the gifts by having a kind heart and a beautiful mind as we show our gratitude. This is a perfect reason for us to choose wise thinking over overthinking and reacting over overreacting. When discussing certain issues on social media or having a face-to-face conversation, we may feel temporarily satisfied after over-expressing our thoughts and emotions that could cause disharmony and misunderstandings, but it is just how life tests and tricks us with its game. Falling into the trap means failing the test. We have lost the game and regret would be the aftermath after the damage is done.

     Being the champion does not mean that we never make mistakes. It means that we strive to stay on the right track in this winding journey of life.     

  

 

 

 

 

TOURISM (We Can Keep Tourists Happy)

Travellers visit countries they find intriguing, exciting and unique. For decades, Malaysia has been praised for its beauty while the people are described as polite and helpful. The country's diverse cultures have attracted many foreign tourists. Travellers leave with happy memories after visiting the nation's beaches, islands and mountains. Our landmarks, too, are well known across the world. In a nutshell, Malaysia, in the eyes of foreigners, is special and visiting the country is worth their time, money and energy.

But, with the lack of maintenance and budget cuts, how do we ensure that our tourism tale ends happily?

There are several ways to maintain our reputation as a top destination for travellers.

            To boost the tourism industry, we need to continue providing excellent service to tourists. Our guides should be friendly and helpful. This attitude will mirror our personality and quality of workers. Mountain guides who had helped victims of the Sabah earthquake in June should serve as an inspiration to other guides.

            We need to promote our universities to attract more international students. Apart from giving the opportunity to local and international students to mix and share ideas, these foreign students will help the country’s economic growth.  

            As we attract and expect others to come and contribute financially to our country, it is also essential for us to visit domestic destinations. It is not nice for us to go overseas and return to brag and compare, while forgetting that Malaysia has plenty to offer.   

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

16 August 2015

PRESERVATION (Work Together to Stop the 'Nature-Haters')

                There has been much talk about how activities that destroy nature and affect public health have been actively and illegally taking place in several states in the country, turning the once scenic panorama into a sorry sight. The public has been forced to face the consequences of the actions by the irresponsible and the heartless. Some vent their anger and frustration in social media and in coffee shops, while others write letters to complain and suggest solutions. It is a frightening and flabbergasting fact that money can be so powerful and poisonous that it makes one blind to the consequences.   

            Despite constant efforts put in by parents, educators, environmentalists and authorities in making their children, students and the community realise the importance of  appreciating, loving and preserving nature, it has been ineffective. Thus, I feel that these groups of people should work hand in hand to produce collective ideas and effective planning to stop the violence against nature and defend everyone’s rights to live in a pollution-free environment.

            Everyone should also reflect on the meaningful lyrics of Earth Song by the late Michael Jackson : “What have we done to the world, Look what we’ve done” with regret and disappointment. Sadly, some people fail to get the message as they believe that “ignorance is bliss”. Such individuals may only be a small number but their selfish actions affect the entire nation. Illegal logging, bauxite mining, deforestation and land conversion are activities that cause air, water and land pollution, as well as natural disasters, including floods, flash floods and landslides. When these activities are not controlled, global warming and haze will take place, resulting in the spread of various illnesses.

            At the end of the day, it is a person’s awareness, initiatives and willingness to change that makes the world a better place to live. Age, profession and social status do not determine one’s maturity, sensitivity and rationality in their decisions and actions. It is a shame that some highly educated people are those who cause environmental problems. They think that happiness and success is determined by how deep their pockets are. When money conquers the human mind, the people end up becoming unwise, greedy, obsessed and ridiculous.

            In his poem The Dead Crow, A Samad Said expressed his deep sorrow, concern and fear of the uncertain and hazy future of the next generation. The environmental degradation and severe pollution will eventually make humans, animals and plants suffer. Disharmony and discomfort of living are, unfortunately, the price people pay for the heinous and unjustified acts of nature-haters.

            Some green-eyed monsters are just jealous with our lush greenery and beautiful nature that they turn the water colour red and fill the air with dust, dirt and smoke. Let us pray that the rainbow will still appear tomorrow and give us hope. 

Courtesy of New Straits Times

August 15, 2015

YOUTH DAY (Youth Will Fight Tooth and Nail to Excel)

            Every year, Aug 12 is marked by the United Nations as International Youth Day, which focuses on the roles of youth in national and global development.

            Malaysia established the Rakan Muda programme in the 1990s to encourage youth to participate in programmes that will shape them into united, exemplary and skilled youngsters. This programme was rebranded early this year with the focus on developing creativity and talents of young people. It is hoped that this programme will also prepare youth for leadership.

            Youth should ask themselves if they have done enough for their country and community, whether they cause problems or create solutions, and whether their attitudes and behaviours are in line with what the country aims to produce. But somehow, there will be bad apples who tarnish the image of the country, family and themselves. That may be inevitable, but it does not mean that it is okay for the number of offenders to keep growing. As Aristotle said: “Good habits formed at youth make all the difference”. 

            In realising the dream of producing quality youths, it is essential for all parties to support them by appreciating and acknowledging their future powers, and that it is worth trying their ideas even when their suggestions and plans do not guarantee immediate effects.

            Young creative, intellectual, holistic and global minds are nurtured at school, home and work. Given that all children are born with hidden potential, it is important to note that everyone has the ability and opportunity to make a change, including the disabled, the dropouts and the underprivileged. No one is an exception. As long as parents, guardians, teachers, colleagues and bosses encourage, motivate, inspire and believe in them, they will be motivated to think outside the box and take challenges fearlessly and confidently.

            Regardless of how simple their contributions, their efforts and courage deserve everyone’s appreciation. Some young geniuses may come up with creative innovations, while others may participate in community service and health, environmental or safety campaigns. In fact, they can become facilitators or speakers of motivational programmes to encourage youth to strive for excellence and make society proud. Above all, they should be reminded to not adopt unhealthy lifestyles, which will kill their minds and souls.

            Many youth have made history and brought glory to the country. At 21, Captain James Anthony Tan flew solo around the world in 48 days. Muhammad Muqharabbin made headlines when he climbed Mount Everest at 22. In squash, Nicol Ann David became World No.1 at 23. These great achievements should inspire youths to go the extra mile to achieve their dreams.

Hopefully, there will be more youth with extraordinary skills, spirit and talent to contribute to the country and change the world.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

August 12, 2015

DEBTS (There's More to Life than Money)

Author Henry David Thoreau said: “Wealth is the ability to fully experience life”. However, some think that money and possessions are all they need to be wealthy, not realising that those are what make people become obsessed, materialistic and arrogant, unless they are smart earners, spenders and savers.

The desire to lead a lavish lifestyle makes people forget about managing their finances wisely. Their desire to be rich keeps their minds busy with ambitious and ridiculous plans. These people worship money and worldly pleasures, without worrying about the negative effects. 

It is disappointing to hear about people becoming bankrupt as they should think logically before setting expectations, making decisions and taking actions. As flawed humans, we will not get everything we want. Reality hurts, but accepting this fact will help us stay away from pain.

As people rush to live an affluent lifestyle, they miss the chance to enjoy feeling serene and calm.

It is true that money can mend a broken heart but, sometimes, it is a silent killer that destroys a human’s life. 

Courtesy of New Sunday Times,

August 9, 2015

PUBLIC AWARENESS (Ignoring Signs a Sign of Our Ignorance)

            While illiterate people strive to understand letters and words, it is frustrating how literate people are ungrateful for their ability to read. I am not talking about their unwillingness and poor motivation to learn reading habits, but their ignorance, selfishness and insensitivity when they come across signs and labels. Yes, this seems to be a small issue but the effects can be strong and serious. It is one way to help us differentiate between the civilised and uncivilised, the respectful and disrespectful, and the educated and less educated.

            During a visit to a bakery, customers turned a blind eye to the sign “Please Queue Here”, making the counter area clustered and uncontrollable.

            Unfortunately, the experience at the bakery is not the only one that exhibits low self-awareness among the public on the importance of following rules. There is a number of common situations that shows up the habits of people who live by the motto “It’s okay, it’s not a big deal”, not realising that they have constantly and subconsciously put other lives in misery.

            Take the “No Smoking” sign, for example. Despite the huge letters and logo, some puff away in public without feeling guilty. 

            Other signs that are not taken seriously include “No Spitting”, “No Littering” and “Flush After Use”. Those who fail to understand that cleanliness is next to godliness think that it is okay to spit, litter and leave toilets dirty when no one is looking. This wrong mindset is the reason for our dirty environment and inconvenient restrooms. Worse, children may get the wrong idea and imitate the acts. It is feared that these erroneous practices will cause the next generation to live unhealthy lifestyles.

            Likewise, it is also hard to make road users comprehend road signs especially the ones that disallow U-turns or to exceed speed limits in school zones and overtake in specific areas. Regardless of excuses, breaking the law is intolerable. These users put other lives at stake as they drive recklessly, behaving like gangsters and daredevils.

            Let us not belittle the signs as they can make a big difference in our lives.  

Courtesy of New Straits Times

5 August 2015

Make Learning English Enjoyable!

            I refer to two letters published on July 29, “Minding your English is hard, but it pays off” by Liong Kam Chong and “Anxiety hampers students’ learning” by Sumati Muniandy. The writers expressed concern and provided suggestions on why and how students and school-leavers should master English, especially speaking and writing skills.

            Liong suggested that school-leavers should be “the first in their families to use English”. The suggestion might work, but only for those living in urban and suburban areas, and not those in rural areas. Urban students are likely to be influenced, encouraged and motivated by their environment where the community uses English, no matter how occasional, broken or standard it is. School-leavers will pick up frequently used vocabulary and include them in conversations at home.

            However, there is hardly any chance that the strategy will work on rural students. From my experience in teaching rural students and conducting English programs for them, these students were hesitant and anxious to use the language despite being around friends with whom they should be comfortable. At home, surrounded by those with no interest using the language, it would be even more difficult for them to start speaking English. Some assume these learners will gain motivation to learn English independently after they leave school, but the reality may disappoint. They would rather do menial jobs than sign up for English courses or put individual efforts to improve their English for the sake of getting a decent job.

            One way to help rural learners learn English is by cultivating interest before they leave schools. English teachers need to help overcome learners’ fear and anxiety in learning the language. Sumati was right about students feeling nervous and not confident when speaking in public. I suggest teachers carry out English On-Air programmes to help students indirectly speak to the public as they act as announcers a la radio deejays in schools. Gradually, students will improve their confidence and eliminate their fear when speaking in English.  

            Learning will be effective if teachers establish close rapport with learners. Given that English is not the preferred subject of many students, teachers should be smart in making students love the subject. To punish them harshly when they fail to improve their performance, reach a certain target or be proficient in the language is not a professional move. Instead, teachers need to modify their teaching styles and remind students not to give up. Make them feel safe, happy, motivated and curious to learn more about the language. Children should not be perceived as sponges that will absorb knowledge immediately as not everyone is a fast learner.

To create a stress-free environment, young learners should be treated with love and care while teenage learners should be treated like friends or adults. Fostering a friendly relationship will bridge the gap between teachers and learners. It will also make the seeds of respect, sincerity and enjoyment grow and make learning a worthwhile experience.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

31 July 2015 

FRIENDSHIP DAY (We Are Friends to Each Other)

            Every year, Friendship Day is either observed in July or August. The day is significant in promoting solidarity, mutual understanding and reconciliation in the name of friendship.

            Strong friendships are made of strong fundamentals. Those who stay friends and connected for years understand each other better. They provide advice and solutions when their long-time companions deal with failures and frustration. After all, a friend in need is a friend indeed.

            Likewise, Malaysians are friends to each other. This friendship is built on trust, unity, respect, tact and tolerance since pre-independence. Being in a multicultural and multiracial community, our peace and harmony are challenged by issues - such as inequality, integrity, corruption, race, politics, economy and religion - that create chaos, putting people with different ideologies and ideas at loggerheads with one another. But we should take these misunderstandings and grouses as storms that will pass and leave lessons. If there’s no pain, there’s no gain. We need to undergo these trial and tribulations together with an open heart and optimistic mind to stay close and united in our friendship circle.

            English poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge said: “Friendship is a sheltering tree”. When the heat is scorching, we need to become shady trees that provide coolness, calmness, security, sanctuary and peace. This means that adding fuel to the fire when the country is dealing with crises and controversies will not help.

            Our unique and precious friendship is meant to be treasured, appreciated and celebrated. We may have different lifestyles, ways of thinking, personalities and cultural practices, but our differences are our richness. Let us stop the bickering, finger pointing, overreacting and slandering, for these will shape us into shallow- and narrow-minded people. As we strive to maintain our good image, we need to stop washing our dirty linen in public. Instead of speculating and spreading rumours on the Internet, we should address root causes and voice our suggestions through proper channels. 

           Let us also free ourselves from negativity and keep our friendly relationships stronger than ever.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

29 July 2015 

HEATSTROKE (Beautiful Sun is also a Danger to People)

            The sun can be beautiful and harmful. Sunshine helps people kick off their day at work but extreme exposure to the sun may put people’s lives in danger. What makes it worse is, some people have zero knowledge about the causes and effects of heatstroke, let alone ways to prevent it. Do ignorant and nonchalant attitudes help them live free of worry and stress? There are people who do not care about the consequences of their actions.

           The fact that sunstroke cases are rare in the country makes people feel safe when they are out in the sun.

            Since the athletes, labourers and children are at risk of getting heatstroke, it is wise if they stay safe. It is important to note that, in this context, athletes do not refer only to professional athletes playing sports in the sun, but also people who engage in sports and outdoor activities, like jogging and playing football, without protection. 

            I was told about a 16-year-old student who suffered from sunstroke after he played football in the evening this year. The incident increased my awareness about keeping myself and my family safe.

            As for labourers, they and their employers should be aware of the dangers of heatstroke. Labourers should not sacrifice their health. They should be smart in managing their work, preferably after they reach a mutual agreement with their caring bosses, who should consider the workers’ safety.

            Children are sometimes left in vehicles by parents or out playing under the hot sun. Parents should make their children’s safety a priority. It is time for parents to practise smart parenting.

            Heatstroke is not a joke. Stay protected today for a happy tomorrow.

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

26 July 2015 

ROAD SAFETY (Minimising Festive Road Crashes)

            It is that time of the year again when many head home for Hari Raya Aidilfitri. The journey will be challenging as roads will be congested. If drivers prepare well for the trip, the pressure will be minimal and the journey joyful. But, how do motorists minimise the risk of getting involved in accidents? There are many ways.

            There are obstacles and unexpected incidents that are avoidable and inevitable. Accidents during festive seasons have claimed many lives and caused nightmares to those who escaped with injuries. In certain cases, the accidents are caused by those who drive recklessly and speed. This happens when there are fewer vehicles on the roads, especially on the first day of Raya and a few days after it, as some people head home after work travel commitments.

            People need to make ‘safety first’ their motto. It is not advisable for drivers to continue their journey when they are exhausted. Chances are they will doze off behind the wheel. That is why it is essential for drivers, especially solo travelers and those with passengers but driving alone, to be physically and mentally prepared. For those with travelling companions, conversations during the journey may prevent from sleepiness and boredom.

             It is also important for motorists to control their emotions. Not only should they be patient, they should also not be overexcited.

            Motorists and passengers should adhere to traffic regulations during their journeys to and from from their hometowns. 

            Selamat Hari Raya!

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

19 July 2015

FILM CENSORSHIP (Local Shows Mirror Our Culture)

            I am not somebody in the film industry but a layman who pays close attention to the effects of international and local dramas and films on the audience’s changes in attitude, lifestyles and ways of thinking. So, I feel that the recent revision by the Film Censorship Board on guidelines for local productions deserves the thumbs up. The decision shows the board's strong concern over worrying issues of moral decay and crime involving people from all walks of life, especially children and teenagers. This smart move also indicates its determination to instil noble values in audiences as only local dramas and films with good messages and decent scenes will be allowed to be aired on television.

            It is crucial for us to understand that stricter rules will not mean low quality and limited creativity. Local filmmakers need to challenge themselves to produce dramas and movies that are meaningful, inspiring and appropriate for general viewing. With excellent scriptwriting and directing, they help the movies succeed at the box office. We may need to learn from international filmmakers who come up with works of intriguing and beautiful storylines, as in Laskar Pelangi, The Blind Side, Taare Zameen Par and Taegukgi. These movies are examples of high-grossing productions that convey strong messages and teach the audience about the essence of education, brotherhood, helping the needy, patriotism, appreciating individual talent and family relationships.

            It is hard to deny that the millennial generation learns effectively through what is trendy and, judging from the country's criminal phenomenon, that involves not only those with family problems and poor academic performance, but also those with upbringing and education. 

            The popularity of films with superstitious beliefs, indecent acts, extreme stunt performances, harsh and inappropriate languages, and criminal strategies is a negative exposure to viewers, regardless of age, gender and living status. This will encourage immature audiences to apply wrong but fun-to-try practices they see in movies to real life. In consequence, parents will be surprised when their children begin to smoke, bully, take drugs and involve in sexual intercourse behind their backs.

            It may be important for filmmakers to take the audience's interest into account before, but they need to bear in mind that marketable does not mean advisable. True filmmakers should be able to produce heart-wrenching and mind-blowing movies in their effort to help the audience immerse in the storyline that is likely to be their stories in real life.

Apart from making profit, filmmakers should not forget their social roles in educating the public on important aspects in life and various issues in the country. This is to prove that movies are not mere entertainment, but an informal education that teaches audiences about empathy, the importance of respect and kindness.

            Our local productions mirror our culture and way of life, so we should not tarnish our own image as a country with good morality and personality, because that is our identity.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

13 July 2015 

ACHIEVEMENTS (Don't Doubt Capabilities of the Iron Ladies)

            Women's achievements in shouldering their responsibilities as a filial daughter, caring mother, loving wife, loyal friend and dedicated worker are remarkable.   

            Many realise that women should be given equal opportunities to contribute to the country, but there are some who believe that women should focus on doing household chores, taking care of husbands and raising children.  

            Not only have women become high achievers, bosses, icons and millionaires, but many have also broken into industries dominated by and associated with men. With the number of male nurses, chefs and housekeepers, which are predominantly female jobs, keeps increasing, women continue to join manly professions, resulting in the mushrooming population of female footballers, soldiers, taxi and truck drivers, stunt performers, mechanics and drift racers. Despite working in a man’s world, it does not make these iron ladies less feminine. Instead, they are just like other women. 

            Thus, it is important for the public, especially men, to not be prejudiced against women and doubt their ability to be competent in occupations rarely preferred by the fairer sex. Their interest, passion and efforts to sharpen their skills and improve their performance should be viewed positively as, at the end of the day, hard work, confidence, motivation and optimism produce desirable results, not perception, prejudice and judgment. Their determination to serve the country and mankind is impressive.

            Giving women the chance and freedom to choose jobs without preventing them from joining professions dominated by men is not about switching from traditional to modern thinking. Rather, it proves the power of civilised minds that can accept change and believe in equal rights.

American author Robert G. Ingersoll said: “When all men give to all others all the rights they claim for themselves, the world will be civilised.”

We live in an era where eccentricity is regarded as normality, maturity and creativity, while being trendy is a lifestyle. As long as the practices are done in the right way and for the right reasons, there should only be encouragement, not objection.

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

12 July 2015

RAYA 'BALIK KAMPUNG' (More than just a trip back to hometown)

            Balik kampung is a phenomenal term in Malaysia, especially during festive seasons. Even its mere mention can leave someone on cloud nine as childhood memories come rushing back. However, the recent controversy over discouraging the public from returning to their hometowns for the festive season to reduce financial expenditure has created chaos on social media, as many vent their frustration and dissatisfaction. I agree with Mazlena Mazlan who discussed the matter in her article “The power of social norms and persuasion” (NST, July 8).

            Every country has its own social norms that signify acceptable behaviour in a group of people. So does Malaysia. In some countries, it is a tradition to gather with family and friends for Christmas, Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve, in the spirit of togetherness, gratefulness and prosperity. Likewise, Malaysians build camaraderie and strengthen their relationships with loved ones through religious and cultural celebrations. With Hari Raya just around the corner, the Muslim community especially is looking forward to reuniting with family members, relatives and acquaintances in celebration of 1 Syawal - the ultimate glory after a month of fasting and resisting temptation. Thus, refraining excited citizens from proceeding with their plan to balik kampung will invite negative reactions, leading to grouses and disharmony.  

            I believe that the lack of money should not be a problem or an excuse for us to discontinue our long-time and noble practice of balik kampung. This is because it shows our efforts in upholding strong values we are taught to maintain, with the hope that the next generation will preserve the cultural tradition to prevent them from forgetting their roots. For many unable to regularly visit their parents due to tight work schedules and other inevitable circumstances, Raya is the perfect time for family gatherings.

            Balik kampung is important in a way that it can give us a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Such a lifestyle can lead to burnouts, depression, conflicts and negative thoughts, especially when one fails to juggle obligations of work and family, resulting in poor work-life balance. Our exhausted body, mind and soul deserve a rest from the world of materialism where we are busy chasing dreams, accomplishing goals and competing to emerge champions in life. Raya is a chance for us to engage in healthy social interaction as we attend open house and mingle with others, share stories, exchange information and forgive each other.

No matter how educated, wealthy and successful we are and will be, we should always go back to where we come from. It is true that there is nothing wrong with celebrating Raya away from home, but we will miss a huge opportunity to mend what is broken, correct what is wrong and appreciate those who love, remember and sacrifice for us the most. I don’t think it is a good idea to resort to smartphones or social media to express our love and ask for forgiveness from our parents, as the feeling will not be the same.

Courtesy of New Straits Times

10 July 2015 

TECHNOLOGY (Let's Not Be Enslaved To Smartphones)

            Technology has taken a toll on human well-being. Despite the long-term effects of the excessive use of technological devices, many people are obsessed with their gadgets. Unless something bad befalls gadget lovers or their family members, advice and reminders will fall on deaf ears.

Smartphones and tablets offer great advantages, but we should not turn a blind eye to their drawbacks.

Since the young are more exposed to the negative effects of smartphone and tablet use, it is the responsibility of adults to remind them.

Education starts at home. Hence, it is vital for parents to teach their children the dos and don’ts in life. However, many parents would rather coddle their children and buy them mobile devices as they want their children to be sophisticated, trendy and tech-savvy. Although this will create a win-win situation as parents and children make each other happy, there are health problems parents may fail to foresee. Children’s inability to think maturely will result in grave repercussions. Worse, parental indulgence could lead to bad habits such as staring at screens all day and bad posture while texting. 

American author Joyce Maynard said: “As much as we watch to see what our children do with their lives, they are watching to see what we do with ours.” Parents should present a good example to children and ensure that they practise what they preach. This will make children admire and emulate them as role models.

Youngsters can be informed about the side effects of smartphones and tablets through formal and informal approaches. For instance, workshops, talks and activities can be held in schools and varsities. Teachers, lecturers and administrators should act as facilitators or speakers in the programmes. Medical experts can focus on the short- and long-term risks of being obsessed with gadgets. In addition, case studies and incidents of users experiencing tragedies caused by gadgets may serve as evidence and eye-openers for participants to take this matter seriously.

Smartphones are invented by geniuses for smart people, who should control themselves and not be enslaved by such devices. Let us stop loving them to death, for, chances are, they will lead us there.  

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

5 July 2015

RAMADAN (A Month of Atonement, Devotion)

            Ramadan is a month of giving and forgiving. It is also the time when Muslims devote themselves to the Almighty in their effort to find inner peace, get blessings and turn over a new leaf. Some may be strong enough to endure all the tests and challenges, but others may fail to resist temptations because of the influence of others, lack of self-awareness or due to the attitude of taking things for granted.

            Many make a big mistake by waiting for the perfect time – that may never come - to ditch their negative habits while using the saying “old habits die hard” as an excuse but, sometimes, when it comes to changing for the better, it is either now or never.

            It is hard for active smokers to abstain from lighting up during the daytime and even a bigger challenge for those who are determined to stop smoking for the whole month. But is it not the right time for smokers, be they active or passive, to free themselves from the smoking world in which many are trapped for good? Some smokers may argue that it’s easier said than done, but their mature and civilised minds should be able to decide for their own health, as at the end of the day, it is not the frightening facts about smoking that will help them quit, but their self-motivation and strong will. Smokers should know that smoking is a suicidal act that has caused many to die with regret.

            It has become a seasonal phenomenon for children to play with firecrackers to face the music. In fact, there is a recent case of a child losing five fingers. It is disappointing to know that many parents still allow their children to play with the deadly “toys”. Firecrackers pose a high risk to those lighting up, throwing and even being in the vicinity. Not only does the irresponsible and insensitive act put others in danger, but the explosive sounds can also disturb others, denying their rights to live in peace and harmony.   

         Gossiping and spreading rumours are habitual activities many fail to refrain from. Chatterboxes and “keyboard warriors” indulge in this guilty pleasure as they try to kill time and stay energised during the fasting month. Not only do these gossipmongers intrude into others’ private lives, but their bad behaviour also shows their lack of respect towards the holy month, as they subconsciously and sinfully ‘quench their thirst’ by joining in face-to-face or online conversations, bad-mouthing others.

            The food wastage during Ramadan is another issue caused by unhealthy habits. Customers easily fall for food and drinks that look so tempting that they drive buyers to spend excessively to satisfy their cravings and insatiable yearnings. This pathetic situation reveals the bad reality of some Malaysians, who possess the attitudes of ungratefulness, greed and insensibility.

            Ramadan is not the time for bragging, smoking, mocking and overspending, nor is it merely about suppressing hunger and thirst. Instead, it is a month of atonement, self-assessment and devotion, and that makes Ramadan a meaningful and reflective time of the year.

Courtesy of New Straits Times,

2 July 2015