LIFE's JOURNEY

SHOULD I? SHOULD I NOT?

2009-11-17T10:00:00.003+08:00

It's been a long time since i blog. All these due to my work load and also everything now can be found on my facebook. Found it tiring sometimes to update my facebook then do the same thing on m blog. Another reason is i sold my camera lately and still looking around for a new one. So should i continue with m blog or not? Hmmm.... should i, should i not?

RIVER CAFE, Segamat

2009-05-12T13:21:00.008+08:00

River Cafe, Segamat by the river along Jalan Sultan

River Cafe, Segamat at nite... nice place to chill out

River Cafe, Segamat is an old shop house that hasn't loose it charms

Segamat is a small quaint town just by the border of Johor and Melaka. Life is easy and everybody knows everybody there. It's a place where you can find peace and serenity that is lost in other big cities. People here tend to take things at slower pace and time seems to slow down. There's many interesting places that you can find here like old row of pre-war shop houses, cute shops selling items we used to have during childhood days and little wooden stalls that sells snacks. A place i find interesting is this little cafe called River Cafe, Segamat just opposite the river along Jalan Sultan. It's a nice place to chilled out day or nite and have a bite or drinks while the rest of the world goes on with their busy lives. There's even a little garden setting at the back for a more private chit chat and gossiping. All the decor here are collections from the owner over the years and from all over the places. Food and drinks here are mainly of the Taiwanese, Indonesian, local and with a few western menu thrown in. You may find the food simple but its really interesting and good. I have to say that you can't find it anywhere else in Segamat. Prices here are reasonable and the food lives up to their expectation. Having a drink and food with your friends here really do makes you forget bout the rest of the mad world but if you are still hunger for the outside world, there's free Wifi for those urbanites junkies. Next time if u feel like to escape from the cities, just drop by Segamat and stop by River Cafe, Segamat for a different feeling. No regrets!

the back garden seating with all the design by the owner

this mirror was passed down from generations

these ducks were flown all the way from Australia

a vase aquarium with fishes as the base of the table

tom yam fried bee hoon

ma lak noodle which is REALLY SPICY!

nasi indonesia which has juicy chicken marinated in special sauce

green tea with lemon which is very refreshing

kam kuat with green apple - very appertising

the owner (Desmond Lee) & me

2008 CHRISTMAS

2009-01-08T13:34:00.007+08:00

What a year had passed by without a hint….. 2008 was not a bad year neither it was good. The year went on usual and the only thing that made a big impact was I started to go to gym and I’m a Facebook junkie. Yes, i'm a self confessed Facebook addict. Look around you and which one of you doesn’t have a Facebook profile. Hmm… those who haven’t entered the world of Facebook must be living under the shell. I end my year with two BIG events. The 1st was a nice Christmas Eve dinner with my closed friends. It was just a small gathering of good people and delicious food! The dinner lasted till the wee hour of Christmas morning that includes us stuffing our face with good food, drinking silly, good chat, UNO and not forgotten Church mass. We sang our heart out during the Church mass and it certainly felt more Christmassy after you attended the mass. Merry Christmas everyone!

bling bling!!

ginger bread house that we ended up giving away

ginger bread men

food galore!!!

honey glazed roast turkey ham

minced pie

crab mousse with crakers

christmas pudding with vanilla sauce

brussel sprouts in butter garlic

aglio olio which is absolute yummy!

all the christmas presents.... i wan all!!!

this is my christmas presents... thanks guys!!

midnite church mass at St. Joseph Cathedral

the real people which are my very very closed friends

LOCAL U

2008-12-18T10:04:00.001+08:00

As the year draw to a close, Malaysian particularly those making decision still can’t learn from their mistakes. In a recent news report about University Malaya wanting to increase the number of its post graduates students to boost its ranking in the Times Higher Education Supplement, I was shock and yet laughing of how they are going to do it. As you all know, a good higher institution of learning depends largely on its co-curriculum, teaching staff and of course its student qualities. By all means, our local students qualities a by far one of the worse ever. If we still continue our way of admitting students based on the race quota, our local universities will never ever be of world class standard or even climbing up the rankings. A lot of excellent students are either turns away or not offered their preferred courses because of the race quota. Instead, those who are less qualified are offered their choice because of the race quota again. I had come to know that a Grade 3 SPM student being offered Engineering course while a Grade 1 student being offered an Arts course all because of their race. If the Government really thinks of improving our Universities standard, they should really think of only accepting students based on their qualifications and do away with the race quota. You can’t spoon feed the people everyday, let them compete for themselves to improve. Even if you are able to fulfill the quota, the quality is not there. Let’s not make our society, labeled as useless grads in the eye of the world.

YOGA Banned???

2008-11-25T09:42:00.000+08:00

Malaysia has done it again! This time, banning YOGA for the Muslim because it teaches chanting and indecent movements. What do I think of this…. ITS ALL CRAP AND STUPID NONSENCE! What can they think of banning next? Pilates? Body Combat? Wushu? Qi Gong? YOGA had been practiced by people even before Islam was born. It helps people to relax, calm, fit and even a cure for many illnesses that even by reading the Quaran can’t heal. Its not that I’m against Muslim or Islam, it’s those people with nothing to do or with shallow or empty brain that irks me the most. I think what GOD really wants regardless of religions are that mankind can live with a peaceful mind, body and soul. If Yoga can achieve that, I can assure you that GOD will be delighted of what we are doing. So to those people please don act like GOD and tell people what to do and not. We are all humans and can think of what is good for us. Lastly, get a LIFE so called professor or noble people! Now, I have to go back to my YOGA and promote it even further….. Ommm……

CHANGE

2008-11-06T10:00:00.002+08:00

Will Malaysia finally wake up from her stubborn sleep? With the historical win by Mr. Barrack Obama in the US Presidential election, will Malaysia finally wake up from its old governing system and make changes? Will the country lead by a leader who is elected by the people and not by the political party? Will a minority who is more capable rather than based on the majority of the race be elected as our leader in the future? All these are the answers that the people in Malaysia want to know. After all, we are all very frustrated with the current government and antics of the current politician. Like Barrack Obama said, CHANGE!

IN MEMORIAM of "BIBI"

2008-10-17T09:02:00.003+08:00

In memoriam of ‘Bibi’ 5th May 2001 – 17th October 2008. She was my precious when she 1st arrived on my lap, now she is gone forever. Her howling and barking will be missed much. She was a loyal friend to me and a very obedient and fun friend to be with. All the big and older dogs around my neighbors scared of her little feisty self. That’s my ‘Bibi’, the little doberman disguised in a dachshund body. May she rest in peace and I’m gonna miss you a lot……

BALI

2008-10-04T11:51:00.006+08:00

Bali... ahh.... The name itself will provoke a sense of serenity and relaxation. That's what i felt when i touch down on Bali. Bali is a place of mystical legends and a place full of sun and sea. A short visit will not justify that you have been there. You really need to explore the island and its surrounding. Indulge on the rich culture and food. There are so much to be digest here and you'll leave the place satisfied or maybe you won't even leave. I'm coming back to Bali again next year. Don't cry for me BALI!

a paradise on earth!

the villa that i stayed in Bali... nice and elegant

Tanah Lot, one of the many place you must visit

Uluwatu, one of the many important religious places in Bali

the luscious green padi field that dotted around Bali

the courtyard of the Royal residence of the Balinese King

sunset at Uluwatu

sunset dinner at Jimbara, very romantic and the seafood was great

a corn peddler by the beach... nice posed for a photo

BBQ corn anyone? very juicy and sweet!

this is not a worshipping ritual.... its Kecak dance, a folklore dance with no music and just chanting

this is the damn monkey that stole my specs and ate it.... hope he will get lots and lots of stomach ache

morning breakfast at the villa, energy to fuel up the day

lunch of traditional Balinese fare

the Pig place that you must visit if in Bali, its at Ubub next to the Royal Palace

a pig that feed the whole village

dinner of seafood by the beach

its party and party the night away.... there's Christina and Whitney!

dancing queen!!

a bleesing from Bali

SATOK RAMADAN BAZAAR

2008-09-27T14:11:00.004+08:00

Once a year, Satok area will be turn into an arena of smells and sights. Its the time of Ramadan which is the month of the Muslim having their Puasa time. During this time, you'll be able to find an array of food that you just can't find during normal time. The smells and sights will make you hungry even before you actually taste the food it self. Name your liking and you'll be able to find it here. Just hope my waist line don't expand after this. Selamat Berbuka Puasa!

Hungry yet?????

SAVE GAMBIER STREET MARKET

2008-09-15T08:51:00.004+08:00

all these will be gone forever

What is worse than forcing the folks at the old Gambier Street Market to move out from their live hood? The place that used to gives Kuching its distinctive character and a tourist destination will be demolish to make way for new shiny structures. The reason behind it was it was deemed unsafe and messy. This came from the morons that caused so much damaged to the character of Kuching that many associates with old charm splendor. Kuching will loss its identity as the birth place will be gone forever. It is no wonder why we lost so many tourists in Kuching as this town is becoming more and more stiff and dull. The old charm is all lost because of the Orang Utan who runs the show at the local authorities. I bet real monkeys can do better than this bunch of primates. The thing that I really felt out of place and should be BOMB down is the new State Legislative building. That thing is really an eye sore!

this really should go instead!!

MID AUTUMN FEST

2008-09-13T10:10:00.005+08:00

Inter-Cultural Moon Cake Festival at Carpenter Street

even Malay are featured here

traditional Chinese costumes

lanterns, lanterns everywhere

anyone up for RM1 hair cut?

a very weird and scary looking lion dance

food is a must at every festival, hungry liaw!

traditional Chinese calligraphy on display

This year festival was scaled down alot compared with previous years. Not much expectation and mostly the usual stuff. I just took a stroll along Carpenter Street and happy snapping pictures like a tourist. The festival still able to draw the crowds despite it only held over a three day period this year. Just wish they could do it better next year instead of scaling it down further. For the celebration this year, I'm going back to the nostalgic era. Instead of going for the modern and fancy style moon cakes, i went back to an old brand that has been around since very very long time ago. Sin Hian Chia or Chin Hian Chia has been around since before i was born. It was the only place where people in Kuching get their moon cakes from at that time. Their range are not as fancy as those modern type but they retain their old taste that brings back memories of sitting around together with the family and kids playing lantern over moon cakes and tea. Besides moon cakes, they also has varieties of traditional cookies and pastry for weddings and full moon.

nostalgic place where folks get their moon cake

the old school

the new style

FREEDOM!

2008-09-13T09:34:00.002+08:00

free them!!!

Malaysian government is going backwards instead of going forward like the rest of the world. Instead of encouraging the people to be more matured, vocal, independent and intellectual, the government is restricting us to be like that and hope we will forever remain as a naive baby. The arrest of three people over the alleged crime of inflicting racial uneasiness was a big bomb to shut people up. The government is trying to tell the people to just shut up and pretend nothing has happen when something is not right with the country. The people of this country can think for themselves what is right and wrong and they are matured enough to speak up. Please let the people grow and don't be a coward of hiding their fillings. If this ISA thing is going through, Malaysia will always remains as a backward 3rd world country.

REGRET AND ASHAMED

2008-09-09T08:48:00.004+08:00

Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail (a failure in life and as a person himself)

It is a very regretable thing that we have such kind of people in our multi racial country. By making a very shameful and hurting remarks about the Chinese community, he is making himself a fool and enemy not just the Chinese in Malaysia but all over the world. How could we have such kind of ignorant and foolish person in our Government. If he had really research and study carefully which i really doubt by his intillegence, he should have known that without the Chinese community in Malaysia, we won't have such prosperity in our economy and wealth. He should have known also that the origins of the Malay are from the Sumatra Island. His remarks on "Hidup Melayu" makes him a snobbish pig least to say. I really hope stern action will be taken agaist him and he should be ashamed being a Malay himself. Next time if you see this pig face, please do remind him of how stupid he is.

STOP!!

2008-08-29T09:55:00.004+08:00

We are going into a dark and boring world. All these thanks to the people they called themselves higher authorities or intellectual. Those morons think that we are all a bunch of babies by telling us what to do and what not. They think by banning concerts and shows we will all be good and proper. Let me tell those morons this, the more you imposed stupid rules on us, the more we will be rebellious. We are all grown ups and we know what to do and not. We have brains not like you guys. Instead of moving forward, these morons are moving back into time where everything is in darkness. No wonder so many people are relieved to go out from Malaysia. These are what i encountered with and its reality. Rock on Avril!!!!!

SAY SORRY

2008-08-13T19:20:00.002+08:00

Sarawak was in total darkness all thanks to the imcompetent SESCO. Yet, they didn't apologize and keep explaining to the people in techinical terms that they don't even understand. A simple Sorry will be enaugh from you guys at SESCO.

my are in total darkness for more than 4 hrs

Rainforest World Music Fest 2008

2008-07-30T17:59:00.004+08:00

Rainforest music fest is an annual event whereby people from four corners of the earth made their annual pilgrimage to the land of Kuching. Its been going strong for the 11th year and things look even brighter now. Really had so much fun there and hope to see all my friends back again. 10-12 July 2009 is the date to remember next year. See you guys there!

music under the Mount Santubong

Tuku Kame

Senida

Beltaine

The Love Circle

Hiroshi Motofuji

Sheldon Blackman

even the Devil was there to heat things up

fire at the beach to end the night

PRE RWMF 2008

2008-07-18T20:25:00.003+08:00

Before the dawn of yearly Rainforest World Music Fest, there will be a party to usher the fest each year. The party of the town is at Lucas's place each year and the crowds are from all over the world. It was a fantastic party and i'm able to know a few good friends from here. Cheers to all the good people and let's PARTY!!!

did you see who is the house??? It's Tony!!

the 4 hunks of Kuching!!! hehehe!

food is always the ice breaker of a party

FAIR????

2008-07-18T20:02:00.002+08:00

Below are some photos of how fair the law enforcement in Malaysia are. If those cars belong to the normal public, i'm sure the guys in uniform would have a fun day giving out fines. Thats not the case here. Even a two lane road have been reduced to a single lane road......

SEMPADI

2008-07-09T17:47:00.002+08:00

Just a day relaxing at Sempadi. Enjoy the pictures as it speaks a thousand words.....

A NITE AT THE CARWASH

2008-06-26T12:42:00.000+08:00

dinner at carwash

Fancy having dinner at a carwash? That’s what we did last nite. Original Car Wash located at Rubber Road is a fusion restaurant cum car wash. The menu is mainly Thai fusion with a dash of mangoes since this is the same person who brought you Ming Kiong mangoes. The concept behind this restaurant is similar to Junk with lots of old furniture and knick knacks. Food is decent with the Tom Yang being the star of the night. The only drawbacks here are the lack of good service and crowds.

wash your car while having dinner

dentist checkup anyone?

wall of food and junks

you can even mend your clothe while eating and washing

calamari mango salad - crispy calamari with sweet mangoes

tom yam kung - hot and sour to the right point

green chicken curry - thick and yummy with plain rice

thai chicken wings - a bit dissapointed with the display and tiny size

pineapple fried rice with lots of mangoes, pineapple and cashew nuts

PINK

2008-06-23T19:33:00.001+08:00

Cherry blossom in Kuching!!!!!! Let's paint the town pink with all these trees....

ATTACK OF THE MALLS

2008-06-21T12:38:00.004+08:00

With a sudden boom of malls in Kuching, what are they malls suited best for you? They are three categories of malls in Kuching at the moment.

tHe Spring, the biggestin Sarawak at the moment

feng shui fountain

The 1st and most exclusive of it are the lifestyle malls. They cater for those who want the best out of their lives. They eat sushi, drinks Starbucks and wear all the designer clothes. These are the people who enjoy life and look good every time they go out. Its all about the latest on the market and money is not an option. These malls are always fashionable and hip with many events to fill your whole day.

Boulevard with the 1st hypermarket in Kuching

small and compact

Secondly, there are the family malls. These are catered to those family outings and most importantly weekly groceries shopping. What they looking for are easy and economical way to satisfied the whole family. There’ll be kids running around and certainly a few of them crying. These malls usually have a large hypermarket.

the newest addition to the mall scene in Kuching

good selection of stuff i this neighborhood mall

Lasty, the neighborhood malls. These are where people living around can get their daily necessities conveniently without traveling far. These malls are usually small but packed with stuffs that you need.

KUCHING WET MARKET - MAIN BAZAAR

2008-06-18T17:38:00.005+08:00

Gone are the vibrant scenery, noise and smell of the Main Bazaar wet market that has been part of our lives since the birth of Kuching. Due to the many reasons that seem to be annoying and senseless from the local authorities, the many lives of people around and even from far away are changed suddenly. There’s no more that old feeling about Main Bazaar that many associates with the old Kuching. The sights of charming old lady selling vegetables and folks enjoying a nice cup of coffee in the wet market are all destroyed. What seems to be old charm value that attracts people from all walks of lives here and abroad are deemed useless by the local authorities that doesn’t know how to manage a city of such. Welcome to the city of senseless and un-efficient local government. What they should do is go around the world and learn from other cities that are more efficient and charming than us. Don’t always sit in your cubicle and stay in your kampong and think that you know the best way of doing things. Bring back the old charm of Kuching while developed around it. Don’t chop down a 1000 year old tree just because you need to build your mall there. Build around it and the best of both can survive. Last note: Good Bye Main Bazaar!

DESSERTS

2008-05-19T13:12:00.002+08:00

Finally a place for me to indulge my cravings for sweet stuff. Even though Hargen daaz, Baskin Robins or Ben & Jerry aren't here, Desserts will do for now to satisfy my sweet tooth. They have over 20 flavours to choose from and some of it are of exotic nature like pandan, semboi and banana. The texture are creamy and full of flavours. They will be having three outlets in Kuching namely Boulevard, tHe Spring and Green Heights. Drop by next time to curb your cravings for sweet sweet stuff.

hard to make choices as there's over 20 flavours presented to you

we tried the blueberry cheese cake, after eight and rocky road - Yummy!

next stop, mango, butterscotth and cookies & cream - Yum Yum!

enter to the twilight zone

IT's MY DAY

2008-05-13T19:08:00.007+08:00

It's my DAY!!!! Yeap, i'm getting old but WISER!!!! This year was a nice year to me since all my close friends and colleague celebrate the auspicious day for me. I'm KING of the day!!!

celebration starts at the work place

my celebration nite starts with some nice cocktails

birthday must have noodles one!!!

if wan to have alot of prawn talk, we must eat this cashew nut sauce prawns

the fisherman basket was a huge catch

soft shell crabs are the most popular of the nite

bidin salad is always our fav in the restaurant, too bad it was the last plate since it ran out of stock

with had our plates all clean up that nite.... burp!!!!

thats May, me Alisa and Chris

Jim, me (again!), Steve, Paul and Ung

Liang, me (again!!!) and Richard

the GANG!

dinner by the backyard with cool pond, great food and really COOL people!!!

getting ready to samurai the cake!!!

LUCAS's PLACE

2008-04-26T14:34:00.008+08:00

It's been a long time since i blog. My life now its all about work, work and more work since my project is going on full swing. Luckily there's still time for me to indulge a little bit of rest and relaxation once in a while and managed to blog this time round. I just had a little dinner gathering at my friend's house to catch up some gossip. A trip to his house is like going to a antique shop or resort. You'll be flipping through every corner of his house like a treasure hunt. There's never a dull moment at his house and the atmosphere that night was heighten by the laughter and sound of a bunch of closed friends over dinner and wine. Wish i could do this more often as i need to get away from reality.

ring a ring to enter the realm of Lucas Lair

a living room full of treasures!!!

how bout a blow of opium while resting

apparently this piece of art carving cost USD 2,000!!!!

the toilet doors are art work but you can't lock it while inside, be careful!!!!

the twilight zone!!

Lucas loves his dalmatian way too much

Jamie Oliver better stay away cos we got chef Lucas in da house

dinner by the pool is something we can't get everyday

dinner is awaiting to be served! Hungry!!!

appertiser of belacan with fresh timun and brinjals

asam prawns and satay are the sides for today

everyone was too hungry and gorge down the food in record time, too bad Guiness Book aren't here to witness

time for dessert of light cheese cake with fresh fruits

we received news that our watery hole is closing down so we went there for ld time sack

good bye to a familiar place, gonna be sad without a nice place to hang out soon

a last toast to FLING!

BEST of part 3

2008-03-24T20:02:00.004+08:00

Finally the finale of my trilogy has come to an end. Yet still in a far far away land called Kuching, there’s abundance of gastronomic places to satisfy the hungry souls of the feline residence there. One this last journey, I’ll walk you through some of the best foreign delicacies that has invaded our feline land. No wander the local pussies ‘purr’ in delight over the abundance of food available.

1. The Junk – Opposite St. Mary’s School/ next to Star Cineplex and Upwell. The duos behind this fabulous restaurant cum antique room are also the same people responsible for Bla..bla..bla.., Living Room and their newest baby Original Car Wash. It’s called the Junk because the place is literally a junk yard with old wooden chairs, tables, cupboards used as props and furniture. There’s even old sewing machine, clocks lamps and other knickknacks thrown in for that rustic look. It’s a visual feast once you step into the restaurant. The orders here are modern Italian fare with the signature ‘lamb shank’ as their most popular dish. Do try out their fishermen basket that comes in a large sea shell and can feed 2-3 persons. There’s no complaining about their food except one. The portions are too big and you’ll need a big table since all the foods are served in oversized plates!

2. Bla...bla…bla… – Opposite St. Mary’s School/ next to Star Cineplex. The sister restaurant of The Junk which is just a few blocks down. Unlike its big sister, the décor here are more towards Balinese resort style. With two water feature ponds separating its main dining area and kitchen and strategically placed Buddha figurines, you’ll feel that you’re in a resort rather than a restaurant. As the Junk serves modern Italian, Bla..bla..bla.. prides it self with its innovative fusion Chinese food. Highly recommended are the ‘midin’ salad that is only found here. Others that are worth mentioning are ostrich's roll with melted cheese, cashew nut prawns, coffee chicken and many more. Do try their pandan green tea which is surprisingly refreshing and cooling. As with the Junk, the portions here are huge also.

3. Magenta – Rubber road. One of my favorite restaurants with their signature pasta dishes. They serve fusion Italian fares which are cooked to perfection. The selection here are extensive and you’ll be cracking your head with what to order. Do leave some space for dessert since they are really good. The ambiance is more towards a blend of Balinese and Nyonya style. The restaurant itself is housed in an old Nyonya house that is rich in beautiful architecture and detailing. It is also a good place to linger on for a while after dinner for a chat and coffee.

4. Pondok Laguna – Crown Square, Pending. Authentic Indonesian foods are hard to come by even though we are just next door neighbour with Indonesia. Luckily this place serves as a refuge for those who wanted a taste of Indonesia. Their chefs and some staff are from Indonesia so you can assure that the food here is real stuff. Indonesian food are similar to Malays with a slight difference is sauces and spices used. The highly recommended food here is their Indonesian Fried Noodle. One plate is just not enough. Other notable foods are the chicken satay with lots of onions, ayam percik and beef rending. Do save up some space for their colorful yet refreshing drinks and desserts.

5. Minoru – Rubber Road. The best Japanese restaurant around and it is certified by the many Japanese people who frequent there. Just a small restaurant but big on taste. The most exquisite are their Kobe beef that is so tender and sweet even by its own. Supposedly that the cow are feed on beer as apposed to just plain water. One reminder though, is prepared to fork out at least RM100 per person if you dine here. Anyway, that is a small price to pay for really beautiful food at Minoru.

There are a lot more good food in Kuching yet to be discovered and the list are too long to be mentioned. They always says that Penang is the food heaven but wait til they try out the food here. I bet they will change their mind and declare Kuching as the new food heaven!

SARAWAK CULTURAL VILLAGE

2008-03-04T19:54:00.008+08:00

beautiful village by the foot hill

Mount Santubong is just a stone throw away

It’s been several years since I step into Sarawak Cultural Village. They just undergo a major restoration and renovation works last year and the place looks spanking new. The village is located about 30 minutes drive from Kuching. Located at the Santubong peninsular and closed by to Damai Beach resort, the place is a beautiful landscaped museum with the legendary Santubong Mountain as its backdrop. Visitors who come to Kuching won’t be complete without a visit to this living museum. A visit here will make you complete your journey throughout the whole Sarawak without even stepping out of Kuching. The village is a sprawling mini Sarawak with all the major native tribes represented here with their own unique houses and cultural. You can visit the Iban’ Longhouse or take a swing at the Melanau’s house. What make this museum unique are the different tribes who perform their daily routines here for the visitors to witness. A visit here will deepen your knowledge on how the natives in Sarawak live and experience the cultural and daily lives of them. Not forgetting, you can buy the local food and crafts that are hand made the traditional way right in front of your eyes. There are two daily cultural shows that showcase the traditional dances of the natives’ people in Sarawak which has won many awards and accolades all over the world. Next time when you step by in Kuching, don’t forget to pay a visit to the Living Museum ‘Sarawak Cultural Village’. A truly unique experience!

this is the 1st hurdle you have to cross before stepping into the village

1st house - The Bidayuh community

traditional way of processing rice

a very long and tedious process of making the pua kumbu

the great hall of the Iban Longhouse

anyone care for some freshly made kuih Jala?

a traditional welcome dance

my NZ friend became an Iban warrior for a day

this is where the World Rain Forest Music fest is held every year

a got a new friend at the cultural village - meet greeny

the very tall Melanau house

this is the ladder that you have to climb to get into the house

this is where the very delicate people of Orang Ulu lives

the sapir

a small waterfall in the village to provide some cooling effect

welcome to the Rumah Melayu

the children are playing a traditional malay game called Congkak

traditional Chinese farm house

parts of the traditional performances

LYDIA SUM

2008-02-19T20:03:00.001+08:00

Today makes a very SAD day for the passing of our beloved Lydia Sum. Let us mourn for the loss of a great person.....

CHINESE NEW YEAR 2008

2008-02-19T19:49:00.002+08:00

a giant gold fish greets the New Year

I’m BACK! That’s what Syler (Heroes) said in episode 11 of season 2 when he finally got the powers that he wanted. But that’s not why I’m back for. I’m just back from a LONG…………. holiday over the Chinese New Year. Didn’t go traveling though, just stay back and entertain friends after friends who came back for the year of ‘Ratatouille’. It’s been a very tiring and hectic period but it was worth it for all the fun, laughter, joy and not forgetting the abundance of food that is consumed during that period.

this is how my reunion dinner looks like..... sumptious!!!!

a new decor for the New Year

my offering to the guests who come to visit.....

As usual, firecrackers and fireworks lit up the sky almost every night after the stroke of midnight on New Years Eve. The street in my area was like a war zone with lights, loud bang and smoke everywhere. I must admit that we did contribute to the smoke that night. As for the customaries ‘ang pow’, I got less and less each year as I reached my age limit. Most people are expecting me to be distributing it instead of receiving it next year. I’ll think I’ll give it a pass until I won the lottery. After all the fun I guess we all have to go back to reality which is WORK! I’m still in my New Year mood though, and next year I’ll be saying Happy Chinese New Year in Vietnam!

BEST OF part 2

2008-01-23T19:46:00.001+08:00

Second part of my trilogy. In a far far away land called Kuching, there’s abundance of gastronomic places to satisfy the hungry souls of the feline residence there. From the many watery and food holes in this land, a few stands out from the rest as they are unique and interesting. Although they are different from the rest, they are not outcast like the others. In fact, they are among the best out there that the feline residents here loved. Presenting here are those chosen according to their respective time of the day.

Breakfast:

1. Expert Food Court, Penrissen Road. This big scale coffee shop has been here for many years and it is still as crowded as before. It is also here that many branches were set up around Kuching to cater for the masses but with different appeal. Many tried to copy their success but failed. The reason, the many food stalls here were selected for their quality and popularity like ‘ta wan kun’ kolo mee, open air rojak and sotong kangkung, ‘suan’ chicken rice, one of the best kueh chap and many more. Be here if you want to sample the best hawker food in Kuching.

2. Top 10 Food Court, Jalan Song. The place is crowded with church goers and none alike. Their common passions here are the famous ‘Teochew’ fish noodle soup. Be prepared to bring out your patience as waiting will be rewarded with good food. The ‘char kueh’ here is also worth mentioning as the fried carrot cake is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. The old lady who cooks it takes her time preparing each other at a time unlike the mass cooking by others. She also serves up a chopstick licking good ‘Teochew’ oyster omelet.

3. Causeway Bay, Crown Square Pending. Even though this place is relatively new, it has the reputation of people queuing up for ‘yam cha’ like what you see at a typical Hong Kong dim sum restaurant. Other than dim sum, they do serve typical ‘cha chan teng’ fare like XO fried rice, beef noodle, baked rice, toast and the ever famous ‘ying yong’ tea. One complain bout this place is that they are halal.

Lunch:

1. Food Avenue, Penrissen Road. Just open early this year and has since become a favorite place for people looking for good food under one roof. The place is open 24 hours a day to ensure people don’t go hungry here. They had gathered some of the best hawker food under one roof and they even got an alternative for 3 layered tea which is 3 layered chocolate drink.

2. Hong Kong Noodle House, Padungan and Saberkas. This eatery has been around since I was just a naughty kids running around naked. It used to be the only ultra modern restaurant in Kuching that serves typical Hong Kong fare. Their roasted meat and duck are among the best in Kuching and not forgetting their ever popular salted fish fried rice. A place crowded with office workers as it’s situated at two of the most crowded office area.

3. No.3 Bintawa Hawker Center. Although the place is far and not the usual place that you’ll think of having lunch, it certainly comes highly recommended from people I know. The food is good and it won’t break your piggy bank to have really good meal here. They only open during lunch so tell your boss you gonna take the afternoon off to rest your full stomach.

Tea Break:

1. Old Rex Cucur Udang, Nanas Road. Good old place for a good old tea break. They started out at the old Rex Theater selling old fashion prawn cracker, fish balls and all sorts of deep fried stuff. After moving here, they even start selling thirst quenching drinks like ABC, cendol, matterhorn etc. The prawn crackers and fish balls just bring back old memories of my school days.

2. Old temple, Carpenter Street. Another childhood place for many people. The place sells handmade fish ball soup that attracts people as far as UK. The soup is clear loaded with vermicelli, fried and steam stuff tofu, fish balls, prawn balls and meat balls. With a dash of home made chili, you’ll be asking for another bowl. Other favorites here that you can only get from 2 pm til 3.3 pm is their pork satay. They are selling out so fast each day that people call to book a day before they come here. These two combinations make people ignore the heat and stuffy environment inside this place.

3. Song Khen Hai Hawker Centre, Padungan. People come here for their dose of belacan beehoon, sotong kangkung, char kueh, abc and fresh coconut drinks. A unique drink here is the combination of fresh coconut and sugar cane. This potent drink is so refreshing that it can quench any thirst. Beware of where you seat here as the place that you seat determines the boundaries of stall that you can order from.

Dinner:

1. Jalan Song. This place is a congregation of a few coffee shops. From these shops, you’ll be spoilt for choice as there are so many to choose from yet you only have 1 stomach. Along the boulevard, you’ll notice many illegal dvd sellers from China peddling along with the legal ones. It has been nickname China Town here since the place is invaded by the Chinese. A great scene to watch when the illegal run away from the authorities every time they come.

2. Hui Sing Hawker Centre, Hui Sing Garden. With so many stalls to choose from in this small hawker centre, you’ll be spoilt for choice. There’s mix rice, kolo mee, beef noodle, tomato mee/kueh tiaw, kueh chap, char kueh, satay and the list goes on. There’s even interesting drinks like matterhorn, red eye, black widow and apache Indian for you to quench your thirst. There’s only one rule here that you need to know here. Always sit at the section where you can order from other stalls that is not conflicting with where you sit. It’s very territorial here.

3. Top Spot, Taman Kereta. Fancy having your dinner on the roof top and the city lights as your background, then this is the place to be. It’s very popular among the locals and tourists here. The are many stalls to choose from but two of them stand out among the rest. Those two are ABC and Ling Long. Take your pick from their fresh vegetables, see food and poultry and ask them to cook to your likings. Finish your dinner with a fresh coconut and you’ll set for the nite.

Supper:

1. Open Air Market. Even though this place is called open air market, it is actually enclosed with just a portion giving you the alfresco feel. This place used to be a fire station with only the tall tower serves as a remembrance these days. It’s divided into two sections. One selling traditional Chinese stir fried and porridge that opens in the evening til early in the morning and the other selling snacks such as beef noodle, fried kueh tiaw, seow bee and all sorts of drinks. It opens in the morning til late at nite. The Chinese stir fried serves nice and cheap food and for those who can’t sleep, a bowl of pork porridge will certainly satisfied your sleeping hunger. The snack sections serves favorites such as fried kueh tiaw, sotong kangkong, ice kacang etc. The beef noodles here are so popular that even the IRS comes here purposely to do their evaluation. The seow bee here is another thing that makes people packed the place every night.

2. Pertanak Market. The food stalls are located on the upper floor of this wet market. You can find all sorts of delicacies here ranging from normal fried noodles to the more complicated stuff like steaks. This place is usually frequent by people after clubbing and also those who just can’t sleep. The cool breeze that blows from the river next to it makes this place a nice place to hang out while waiting for the fishermen berth their boats to kick start the wet market.

3. Kuching Waterfront. This place has been a well known tourist destination with its lush green parks and many recreational spots for a nice stroll or jog. By night time, the stretch in front of the Hilton comes alive with the smell of food. The order here are traditional Malay food like satay, nasi lemak and teh tarik. A really nice place to enjoy a meal by the river with the cool breeze and serene scenery along the river.

Snacks:

There are many local snacks in Kuching that many youngsters now have forgotten bout it. For example, the butter bun at Padungan Road. The shop has been selling buns and bread since wasn’t even born yet. Until this day, people will rush to get the fresh hot butter buns around 2 pm in the afternoon. Another place is an old shop selling traditional ‘seow pau’, egg tart, yam puff and curry puff. It’s situated at a small lane next to the police station in town. The smell of the ‘seow pau’ is just too irresistible. Just make sure you get the right shop as there’s two there. The one nearer to India Street is the original stuff. One little secret here, the street is locally know as ‘coffin street’ since the shops there used to sell coffins!

BEST OF part 1

2008-01-16T19:48:00.000+08:00

At last my masterpiece is OUT! I’ve been doing research and even put my health at risks in order to come up with this masterpiece. My masterpiece is entitled “Best Of”. Since starting doing my research for this culinary adventure, I had gained so many pounds until I can’t recognize the person looking at me in the mirror. These all for the sake of bringing out the best of Kuching’s delights. Here are my findings based on trials and lots of sweating.

Best Sarawak Laksa (The King of Breakfast)

1. Chong Choon Cafe, Abell Road. How can I describe the taste, one word, delicious! That’s how people will tell you when you ask them why they come here early in the morning and have to endure the staring eyes of people standing next to your table hoping you’ll finished soon so they can take you seat. They even got a branch now at Green Heights coffee shop but nothing can compare to the stuffy and crowded feeling of an old ‘kopitiam’.

2. Choon Yen, Bank Hock Road. Used to be the ultimate Laksa place in Kuching but losing out its steam lately. People still crowd this place in the early morning and the Laksa usually sold out by 10 am. Still known as the birthplace of Laksa eating in Kuching.

3. Madam Tang, Pertanak. The new and hip place for Laksa in Kuching. If you want comfortable and smiling services, this is the place to have your Laksa. Their soup is thicker than the usual fare and if you fancy prawns the size of your palm in your Laksa, this is the place. If you can’t get your fix of Laksa from the two places above, don’t fret cos Madam Tang opens til late. A new branch has opened up at Stutong to cater for people around that area.

Best Kolo Mee (The Queen of Breakfast)

1. Ta Wan Kung. Come here in the morning and you’ll know why people come from as far as Hong Kong to get their taste of Kuching. The smell of lard and fried onions will make your mouth salivates even before you sit down. This family business has been passed down by their father since he first started at the old Rex Theater. The younger brother got his own stall at Expert Food Court at Penrissen Road. Never trust halal version of Kolo Mee as they don’t come even close to those with heavy dose of the fragrant lards!

2. Oriental Park, behind the old Capitol Cinema. Family business since my grandparents time and they are the very few that roast their BBQ pork using the same old method. Just sit back and enjoy your bowl of Kolo Mee while watching the BBQ pork being roasted by the side over hot charcoal.

3. Batu Kawa old town, next to the roundabout. Even though Batu Kawa old town is 30 minutes drive from Kuching, people still come here as early as 7 am for their famous ‘Bak Ong Mee’. It’s an alternative version of ‘Kolo Mee’ with the additional fish balls, fish meats, pork strips, pork rolls and other meaty stuff. Make sure to bring your patience here since the waiting time is from 30 minutes to 1 hour for your food to be served. Be here early too since everything will be sold out by 10 in the morning.

Best Chicken Rice

1. Hock King, Bank Hock Road. The art towards a good plate of chicken rice lies on three principle. First one is tender and juicy chicken meat that literally melts in your mouth. Secondly, fragrant rice that is soft and yet full of rich texture of the chicken stock, butter and ginger combination. Lastly, the ever fragrant and spicy chili with garlic not forgetting the belacan combination. All these three are mastered by the people behind Hock King and the crowd during lunch time is the evidence of how good they are. If you can’t find a seat here, fret not. They just opened up a branch inside the Food Bazaar at tHe Spring.

2. Good Thumb Food Centre, Dogan Road, Batu Kawa. This place used to be called Big Mouth. But then the popular chicken rice stall there had a dispute with the landlord, so they moved next door and calls themselves Good Thumb. There’s rumor that the lady owner has a very good chopping skills not only on chicken meat but…… Regardless of what they're called, the chicken rice there is still hands down the best of the best in Kuching.

3. Fang Yuan, behind Hock Lee Centre. This place is known as ‘chow kei pern’ (smelly chicken rice) because of their origins. They used to be selling chicken rice at the shop near to the wet market at Main Bazaar and the smell of the rotten meat and vegetables there made their chicken rice smells even better! After they move to their current place, they even started serving at lunch time opposed to their nite only chicken rice last time. They are the only few chicken rice seller that serves up a good nutritious soup.

Best Belacan Beehoon

1. Padungan Belacan Beehoon at Song Kheng Hai Food Court, Jalan Padungan. This stall at Song Kheng Hai serves pretty mean Sotong Kangkung as well. Belacan Beehoon is one of Sarawak’s most legendary delicacies, although it can't reach Sarawak Laksa in terms of popularity. The process of making the gravy is very tedious hence it is not so easy to find Belacan Beehoon in Kuching and also because not a lot of people can stand its pungent smell.

2. Summer Pavilion, Museum garden. This place still serves Belacan Beehoon like in the olden days. My parents used to come here a lot when they were courting. Sitting there sipping a bowl of ‘Ice Kacang’ with Belacan Beehoon while watching the greeneries just calms down a stressed day.

Best Tomato Mee/Kueh Tiaw

1. ‘Se Xio’ at Hui Sing Garden hawker centre. Tomato Kueh Teow or Mee are distinctively Kuching. You can’t find it anywhere else other than Kuching. Some people mistaken it for fried noodles with tomato sauce hence the many failures in West Malaysian imitation. It is actually fried crispy noodle or stir fried kueh tiaw with tomato gravy just like what Italians spaghetti to them. The gravy must be cooked to perfection with many condiments and poured over the noodles. It would taste better if the kueh tiaw is slightly burnt to gives it a kick. Other than the usual style, this stall also serves normal fried kueh tiaw with tomato gravy poured on top.

2. Hap Hap Hin at Kenyalang Market. You can get Tomato Kueh Teow almost everywhere in Kuching, but only this stall does it to perfection. Come early, because they are so popular, they sometimes sold out before noon time.

Best Kueh Chap

1. Expert Food Court, Penrissen Road. We call it Kueh Chap. Other people call it "The Pig's Spare Parts Soup". Kueh Chap means pieces of flour dough that has the same texture as kue tiaw in herbal soup served with every imaginable internal organs of the pig. For people who can’t stand sights of pig’s organs floating around in your soup, you opted for lean pork meat and eggs instead.

2. Pertanak Market, 1st Floor. The stall located at the corner of the food section is frequent with ladies with basket after their morning shopping and also the many vendors around that area. Some people claim that the taste is still the same after so many years.

Those are some of the well known local delicacies that are unique and a must for all food lovers who wanted a taste of the locals. Some people might have different preferences and you are most welcome to give any comments and suggestions. There’ll be another 2 parts following this masterpiece as I intend to do it as a trilogy. Part 2 coming soon…….

PONDOK LAGUNA

2008-01-07T19:22:00.000+08:00

New Year's Eve for me in Kuching was a Very Wet....... event. Even though it was raining cats and dogs, that doesn't stop us from enjoying ourselves over a good dinner and wine. We went to a Indonesian restaurant called Pondok Laguna located at Crown Square at Pending. It was operated by the same people that brings us Causeway Bay, Shanghai Nite and Lok Thian. The decor was simple but the food was really good! We had so much food that we barely can walk out of the restaurant after the meal. Some of the waitresses are from Indonesia so they are the best person to ask for good recommendations. As usual, the place was packed since it was New Year's Eve. After the dinner, we went back to one of our friend's house for some after dinner drinks. That night, we had 3 bottles of red wine with assortments of cakes from Hilton and a box of chocolate truffles. What a new year it has been and i'm looking forward to the next one with much anticipation!

Pondok Laguna located on the ground floor of Crown Square at Pending

seats reserved for the royal!

Bali is where we spent our New Year's Eve (exotic!)

their menu consits of a wide range of Indonesian delicacies

the keropok with chili sauce serves as a very appertising apperriser (we had 3 baskets!)

the pandan leaf rice (soft and fragrant)

chicken satay Indonesian style

roasted chicken in sweet sauce

prawn satay which is over done (too bad...)

beef rendang sone to perfection! (more rice please!)

mee goreng Indonesian style (two plates of this was clean and lick)

tauhu sumbat with mix vegetables stuffed inside the tofu and deep fried

ayam assek (lots of tumeric and spices)

with those nice food, we must have some hot chillies and belacan to go with it

ice blended cempedak

iced green bean

mixed fruits drink with lots of local fruits

start the New Year with a Gong!!!!!

2008

2008-01-03T20:11:00.000+08:00

Another year had pass and another year had come. Time really passes by like the change of weather. New Year resolution you might ask.... Like last year and many years before, my resolution is not have made any New Year resolution. By doing so, i'm free to do what i want and i don't have to be despair if i can't achieved any of the resolution that i made.

The year 2008 seems to be a promising year for Kuching. A lot of changes are going on as we speak. We can look forward to a real shopping mall here finally! After the very disappointing debut of Boulevard, i hope the Spring will put the people behind Boulevard to shame!

Speaking of another shame, the egg faced Ting Pek King still keep on doing his fast track and yet ugly and lousy projects. Have anyone seen his vision of the new hotel? It's a bloody BOX! Well, can't blame an egg face to come up with a Picasso rite. Well, enough bout him and lets move on with the year 2008 with a blast and which everyone a fun filled year!

TEN ICHI

2007-12-27T19:22:00.000+08:00

Ten Ichi located below the Lok Thian restaurant

too bad it wasn't a Geisha who serve us

Ahhh........ メリークリスマス! That's Merry Christmas in Japanese. Unlike the usual human being who celebrate their Christmas by having turkey dinner, i went the other with my friends by having a Japanese Christmas. It's a refreshing way to usher the festive season unlike any other and we had so much fun and laughter since we got ourselves a room for the occasion. If it wasn't for the enclosed room, i think the customers will be chased away by our crazy behaviour. I don know why we acted that way, maybe because of the 'sake' or maybe we really are crazy bunch. After the dinner, we jump straight to our countdown session at the local watery hole by drinking ourselves drunk and playing illegal games........ All in all it was a merry nite and one that is unusual.

warm sake to cleanse our stomach before dinner

fresh sashimi as appertiser

the sushi came all theway from Japan in this boat

grilled fish to the perfection

fresh squid lightly grilled with a dash of salt to taste

baked eel with rice

seafood ramen with fish, squid, prawn and other ocean creatures

tempura udon with a really long prawn, just wondering if the prawn went to plastic surgery to be so long

bento box with tempura, grilled fish and fresh sashimi

we were seeing snow flakes after the nite went on

YUANXIAO

2007-12-23T14:52:00.000+08:00

People says they amount that you eat this 'tang yuan' represents how old you are. I guess i'm always very young since i only ate a few. How i wish this is the miracle pill for eternal youth. Anyway, it marks the end of the lunar calendar and the preparations for the Chinese New Year begins from here. Money flying out again! "sigh"

COTTON CHEEZY CAKE

2007-12-18T19:33:00.000+08:00

Since everything is going up and our salary is still the same, Christmas will be a moderate one. Even the cake have to be home made. Here, i'll teach everyone to bake a Christmas cake. Easy and delicious!

what you'll need is 6 eggs separate, 50grm butter, 250grm cream cheese, 1 tbsp cream of tartar, 70grm flour, 20grm corn flour, 150ml fresh milk, 150grm caster sugar

melt the butter, milk and cream cheese on a double boiler until everything is dissolve and mix well

let it cool down and stir it well

after cool down, add in the egg yolk and mix the mixture well and set aside

next, beat the sugar, cream of tartar and egg white in high speed

the egg white mixture should be beaten up stiff and add in the cream cheese mixture slowly. fold it the mixture and not beat it. after that, fold in the flour and corn flour until everything is well mixed

pour into a greased tin and steam bake for 55 minutes at 160 degrees

after the cake is baked, set it aside and let it cool in the fridge. while waiting for the cake to be cool, prepare the cream by beating 1 egg with 100grm sugar and 100grm cream cheese until fluffy

set the cream cheese aside and beat 100grm of whipping cream until stiff. add in the cream cheese mixture and mix well. after the cake is cooled, spread the cream cheese as you like

the end result, white christmas cake!

919 CAFE

2007-12-14T19:47:00.000+08:00

With oil prices going up and salary non moving the ladder, we have to find cheap alternative for our food. Luckily i manage to find one before i started to eat grass. The shop is located at near Hui Sing housing estate behind the up coming Boulevard Shopping Mall. It's next to Sumo Cake house. Name wise, it's called 919 Cafe and from the signboard that is made of canvas, you'll know that this place is saving to the minimum while giving the customer a decent meal at a low price. Don't expect gourmet food but they do serve some good home cook food. The specialty is fish head but i didn't order it that day. Well, the'll always be next time since this is a place for good and yet cheap food. A dinner for 3 person is only RM20 including drinks. Now, that's what i called rock bottom price!

simple tables and chairs just like those olden days stall

even though they keep it simple, they serve bario rice for a healthy reason

ma po bean curd

claypot seafood soup

spare ribs in yellow bean sauce

SAVING

2007-11-28T13:54:00.000+08:00

Been drifting away for quite awhile now........ All thanks to my external hard drive. It seems that it has given up on me and yet i treated it so good. No matter how i poke it, it will not gives it attention to me. Feeling sad that most of my photos are inside and when i meant most, its literally thousands!!! Still trying to get it kicking and while doing that, i shall wait and save my photos in my memory card 1st. In order not to let the blog goes redundant, i'm putting up some photos from my garden. Enjoy it while i try to save my external hard drive and in the coming month, i shall publish list of the best in Kuching. Until then, cheerio guys!

lime anyone???

apple anyone???

pretty........

RICHARD's BIRTHDAY

2007-11-15T14:15:00.000+08:00

It's my good friend Richard's Birthday and we went to Magenta for dinner as this is his favourite restaurant. It was pouring that nite as we ascend to the restaurant and you can see how heavy the rain is by the many buckets and tins placed stratergically in the restaurant to collect rain water from the dripping ceiling. The restaurant is indeed an old house but we enjoyed the dinner without any of us getting wet. The dinner was great and we really ate alot. The birthday boy even got a personalised decorated cake compliments of the restaurant.

Richard's fav restaurant, Magenta at Rubber Road West

it was raining cats and dogs outside

our 1st appertizer, bruschetta with sun ripe tomatoes, ham and hard boil eggs

our 2nd appertizer, deep fried calamari rings

main course, manggo grilled salmon

fish and chips

fishermen basket consists of, baked mussels, calamari rings, deep fried soft shell crabs, prawns and fish

cheese steaks with wild mushroom sauce

tiramisu, the real stuff

carrot cake with vanilla ice cream

a special cake on the house accompanied with singing waitresses

wah!!!!! a Gucci gift for our birthday boy, how i envy

besides Richard's birthday, we also took the oppoturnity to gift a farewell gift to our dear friend Edward, he's going to Bintulu to become a pilot, soon we will be able to ride in the A380 that he flies

we insists that he carry this whenever he flies to remind him of us

the gang for the final candid shot

our program doesn't end there that nite as we proceed to sing our hearts out at this new kara-ok at Abell road called Deluxe KTV

the interior is plush and nice with over 20 rooms of various sizes, our room comes with an attached bathroom and it's the smalllest of them all, you should visit their VIP rooms, wow!

the singers get ready for their turn to shine tonite

the birthday boy style of singing, leaning one hand on the wall, guess it's the new move

the nite ends with a little birthday cake of muffins as the clock strike 12

MEI MEI

2007-10-29T10:28:00.000+08:00

I found another place for good Sarawak Laksa. It's tuck away at the corner coffee shop at Chongling Park called Mei Mei. The name is very cute indeed as it means beautiful. People who come here are for the craving for their thick laksa soup with fresh prawns. The prawns are so generous that it covers the whole bowl. I just love my laksa with lots of prawns. Yum! Yum!

thick laksa soup with lots of prawns, chicken meat, bean sprouts - YUMMY!

a good teh tarik ais to go with the laksa - ahh....

CHEF at HOME

2007-10-23T10:52:00.000+08:00

Chef at Home at Hui Sing Garden

Western fine cuisine shouldn’t be confine in elegant fine restaurant nor does it have to be so expensive that you have to save up your entire month’s salary in order to enjoy it. That’s why the people behind Chef at Home come up with the idea of fine dining in a casual and inexpensive way. It’s located in a single storey house just opposite the Hui Sing Garden Petronas station. You can either park your car at the road side or inside the car park at the house. The service is prompt and the ambience is casual enough for you to enjoy your food without all the protocol. The most important thing is it won’t burn a hole in your pocket for a meal there. By the way, they are the people responsible for NK Food Network also.

the nice garden setting for you to enjoy an alfresco dining while enjoying the beautiful landscaped garden

ice lychee with nata de coco is refreshing with lots of lychee

a refreashing blend of pandan and 'cin cau'

an old time favorite of ribenna with sprite

can't remember the exact name but its deep fried breaded chicken with cheese and home made sauce - cheesy the way i like it

grilled lamb with black pepper sauce

chicken terayaki with fragrant rice - tender chicken grilled to perfection

grilled chicken chop with black pepper sauce

linguine with cheesy cabonara sauce - it was very good until we all fight for the last bit

HUI SING

2007-10-19T11:34:00.001+08:00

What other things that I did during the holiday? Let me think……hmmmm…… eat of course! I went to a place that has been around for so many years and still a crowd’s favorite. It’s the Hui Sing Garden hawker centre. We went there right after we reach Kuching from Matang. The hawker centre used to be at Palm Road when I was really small. Since the old place was due for road widening, they moved the whole place to the current place at Hui Sing Garden. Some people still called it Palm Road hawker. There are a lot of local hawker fares here that you can’t find elsewhere and if you happen to find it, it’s imitation from the creators here. For example, Ah Meng drink stall is the 1st to come up with drinks like “white lady”, “black widow”, “red eye” or the ever famous “matterhorn”. Other than that, the tomato kueh tiaw or noodle and the sweet sauce noodle are absolutely tempting. A stop by this hawker centre will satisfy any palate that you may have.

Hui Sing Hawker Centre which only open at nite 7 days a week

the ever famous "matterhorn" which consist of lychee, cendol, jelly, liong fun in syrup and lemon - very refreashing (ask for the aluminium bowl)

a tomato kueh tiaw with a twist, they fried the kueh tiaw 1st at usual fried style then pour over the tomato sauce over it - more fragrant and only available at 四小 stall

fried noodle with bean sprouts and egg in sweet sauce, my dad's favourite and only available here in Kuching

pork satay from Satay House, a must for anyone who visit Kuching

MATANG FAMILY PARK

2007-10-17T10:16:00.000+08:00

What did I do over the long holiday weekend? Hmm…. let me recall back. Sleep, eat, shit…… Hahaha! Not a pig so I make full use of the holiday catching up with friends and go exploring the surrounding. I didn’t do any visiting this year though. The place I went instead is Matang Family Park. It’s been so long…… since I went there. The last time I was there, there are no facilities for people to shower, sit or BBQ yet. It’s pure wild jungle with waterfall. Now, everything is changed and I even have to fork out RM3 just to enter the park. Nevertheless, we had a great time there since the spot that we choose was isolated and we have the whole stretch by our own. A little picnic and relaxation by the river is just what a busy city folks needed. Ahh……..

that's the mountain we're heading on a sunny day, Mount Matang

the convoy following us to paradise! Hahaha!

it was packed on that day and we had to park our cars on the upper deck

the schedule of pricing for each different grouping, some of us could pass off as teenagers

the area map for Matang Family Park, our destination is Stage 1 which was closed for today but we don't mind walking 1600mm from Stage 2 since it was more private there

the observation tower at the entrance of the park

the canopy deck and all the major facilities like toilets, shower room, canteen etc that is provided here at Stage 2 and Stage 1

beautifully landscaped garden at Stage 2 where BBQ pit is located before the stream below

the steps we had to take to reach the stream below and cross over it to get to the jungle trail to Stage 1

deep into the jungle we ventured to find a place we called our own

finally we reached Stage 1 which was deserted on that day, the stream is just below the deck, Yippee!!!!

fresh water from the mountain with lots of fish

after soaking ourself in the river, it's time for some lunch of luncheon meat sandwiches, cakes, cookies and tidbits

the rain came when we managed to get back to Stage 2 and we sheltered under the canopy for the rain to ease

while waiting for the rain to ease, we played some "chor tai di" to pass time and i managed to win most of the time, hehehe!

some of the beautiful flora that you can find at Matang Family Park

SELAMAT HARI RAYA

2007-10-12T11:31:00.001+08:00

Long holiday for me!!!!! Yippee!!!!!

CANON S5IS

2007-10-10T11:38:00.000+08:00

i bought this baby over the weekend and it's my venture into semi-pro camera. i took some snap shots after i got this baby but since i'm still an infant to this new world, the photos might be of child's play qualities

a corner of my family room, the abacus belongs to my grandma

a flower in the garden

a plant that changes its leaves colors as they grow

another shot of the many flowers in the garden

green green giangantic leave

TA WAN KUNG

2007-10-09T14:48:00.000+08:00

Ta Wan Kung opposite KMC swimming pool and next to Kuching Park hotel

Kolo mee is just like an institution in Kuching. A coffee shop or kopitiam without stall selling kolo mee is incomplete. That’s the reason why every coffee shop or kopitiam serves kolo mee and everybody in Kuching eats kolo mee day and night. It’s a simple dish that doesn’t appeal to most since it doesn’t have any colours. There’s one particular stall that is been well known since my grandparents time. It used to be at Rex Cinema but since it has been torn down, they have relocated to another place. This time round, it is the son who is doing the business while the father has long retired. The place is called Ta Wan Kung opposite the KMC swimming pool. The place is packed during breakfast time and if you go there after lunch, you’ll be disappointed with an empty stomach. There’s another one who is operated by his brother which is located at Expert Foodcourt at Jalan Penrissen. This one does sell in the morning and night time. For me, it’s one of the best kolo mee in town.

kolo mee with wanton, the noodle are handmade and it tasted springy and smooth. the combination of fried onions and pork lard oil makes the noodle irresistable. you can smell the fragrant pork lard and onions even before you enter the shop

other than the normal kolo mee, they also have alternative version like fried chicken kolo mee top with crunchy pieces of fried chicken

pork chop kolo mee with tender marinated pork, whoever says kolo mee should go halal should be shoot and hang!

HAPPY VALLEY

2007-10-08T15:39:00.000+08:00

It was an uneventful Saturday night I had. 1st, I was down with a flu and two very irresponsible friends didn’t turn up for our appointment. We had arranged it properly a week earlier that we will go for dinner and movie on Saturday night. We even agreed on what movie and where to eat on that Saturday afternoon over lunch at Jia Jia Court. Me and the other friend could have canceled everything right then if we know those two are so irresponsible since we came down with flu at the same time. After everything was done and the movie tickets were purchased, we were stood up by those two. We waited at our dinner place Happy Valley until we got hungry and ordered first while waiting for them. There weren’t a single call from both of them and they even ignore our calls when we called them. Well, we continue to enjoy our dinner without their presence as if nothing happens. Why should we let two ignorance and irresponsible people spoiled the whole night? We even managed to catch a good movie, Resident Evil: Extinction. As for the two extra tickets, we sold it off to the ticketless people at the cinema. The story doesn't end here yet. We meet some very uncivilised people on our way out of the carpark. Everybody was queuing up to go down the carpark but this guy who drives a Toyota with 2 girls sitting inside plan to be smart ass and instead of following everyone else, he took the shortcut by going down a level using the up ramp. They even got the courtesy to laugh and one of the girl put on sun glasses as if the moon is so bright. I hope people who read this will be more civilised and stop acting like a bitch or bastard. Now, lesson learned here, never let anyone spoil your day.

Happy Valley, where you can enjoy BBQ meats, western and local food over a cool drink under the stars

a cute little fan spinning to the wind

fruit salad, for my friend who is sick

chicken chop for me, even though i'm sick

some orange juice for that much needed vitamin c

we leave Happy Valley satisfied yet angry with those two irresponsible people

Resident Evil:Extinction, an enjoyable movie that gives you a little scare here and there

JIA JIA COURT

2007-10-07T10:42:00.000+08:00

Jia Jia Court at RH Plaza

Been searching high and low for a good big prawn noodle in Kuching, since I last tested it in Sibu. Finally I found it at a typical coffee shop at RH Plaza in BDC. You won’t notice the coffee shop if you don’t venture deep into the commercial area. It’s tuck behind Taka and next to the soon to be opened EON Bank. Have to be there early since most of the stuff there sold out by noon. A friend of mine who came late was disappointed that the noodle was finished but at least he got to taste some very nice ‘kam pua’ noodle. Other than the food, the drinks there are interesting too. They have fresh juice of local fruits that you normally won’t get it anywhere else like bangkolong, dragon fruit etc. Did I mention that the staff and stall owners there are so friendly that you’ll feel like having old friends around. No wonder it’s called Jia Jia Court (family).

the big prawn noodle foochow style, nice thick gravy with big fresh succulent prawns

kam pua, tasted like those original from Sibu

foochow style siew mai, fresh fish and prawns meat

bangkolong juice, a type of sweet and sour fruit that usually eaten with belacan

fresh lemon, they grind the lemon instead of just squezzing it

VERINICE

2007-10-03T14:33:00.000+08:00

this is what we had to avoid in order to get to our dinner

Dinner was never easy, have to work hard for it. In our case, we had to maneuver the road and finding the right road to take before we can have our dinner. We have to avoid the on going procession which happen to go through the route that we are taking. Fortunately, with my good sense of direction and quick thinking, we managed to use the back lane and reach our destination. The reward for our effort was a very nice dinner at Verinice. It is indeed very nice and the price is cheap. A highly recommended place for dinner without burning a hole in your pocket. The place is tucked away next to the Shell Station at HSBC Kuching. Its the road next to the station leading towards Pertanak Market. Easy to find since it is facing the road and with lots of hungry people.

Verinice is indeed VERY NICE!

all the delicious food that you can find here, saliva starts to drip from my mouth already

baby kailan with salted fish, very fresh and nice

claypot japanese tofu with roast meat and salted fish, the gravy goes perfectly with plain rice and the tofu are just yummy

stout pork ribs, simply delicious and lip smacking good

butter prawn, this is my all time favorite. they cook it in a claypot with butter gravy that you can dip with the buns that they give. could finished the whole thing myself and still asking for more

our after dinner coffee was at Bing! a perfect ending for a perfect dinner.....

STARBUCKS

2007-09-29T21:35:00.000+08:00

It seems Starbucks Kuching which is located inside the Kuching International Airport is getting more and more popular as an alternative 'lepak' spot in town. In fact the airport has been populated with people who are not travelling at all. 'Cats' had found a new place to hang out at the airport. Kids running around with parents chasing them are normal sights now at the airport instead of travellers chasing for their flights. Kids seen with their laptops and mp3 players instead of travellers with their luggage. As I'm typing this, a kid has just trip and fall. Crying as usual seeking attention. Next time if you want to hang out, head to the airport and not the mall. Rare sights indeed!

gen. than shwe (MYANMAR)

2007-09-29T11:12:00.000+08:00

This devil should be locked up forever for disturbance of peace and human rights. Why should this world be someone like him? Does he know the meaning of democracy and human rights? Is he human at all? Let us all pray he will never haunt the earth again and return peace to Myanmar.

MYANMAR UPRISING

2007-09-27T13:41:00.001+08:00

pictures courtesy of Channel News Asia

The Myanmar Government has gone too far by betting up monks and some were killed by what seems to be one of the worse uprisings by the people against the military ruled government. They even raided monastery and arrested monks just to stop them from repelling the government. When will this conflict end and when will the military government of Myanmar realized that things have to be changed in Myanmar? The people in Myanmar needs a democratic government and not some iron fist military generals who act whatever they like. How could the international society help? ASEAN countries could imposed bans and drop Myanmar from the alliance. The big brothers like UN, US, Britain and China could impose sanctions and other means to stop the escalating unrest in Myanmar. Put aside any self interest and help those in needs first. For the rest of us, all we can do is pray and hope that the Myanmar government will come to its senses and peace will be restored.

MID AUTUMN FEST

2007-09-26T10:05:00.001+08:00

Mid-autumn festival or popularly known as mooncake festival was celebrated yesterday among the Chinese community and even the non Chinese have join in the festive. There are many stories behind the reason for the celebration but I’ll spare you guys with my story telling and jump straight to how I celebrated it. We gathered at my house and start a mini picnic at the garden with the tree full of colorful lanterns and the full moon set against the dark sky.

the tree was decorated with lanterns and the little gathering got underway. (just hope the tree won't die due to the heat from the candles)

food is a must in every party or gathering. we had cheese sausages, some "chai kueh", the compulsary mooncakes and also a pot of hot green tea and some cold ice tea for those who can't stand the heat. we didn't managed to finish all the food though

admiring the lovely lanterns, luckily non was burnt due to my ingenious way of putting tea candles instead of the normal candles inside the lanterns

SARAWAK INTER CULTURAL MOONCAKE FESTIVAL 2007

2007-09-25T09:47:00.000+08:00

the Harmony Arch welcomes you to the fest at Carpenter Street

Last year this is my very 1st entry for my blog. Time passes by like a gush of wind and it’s been a year since I started my blog. Actually it’s not a full year yet since I started my blog in October last year and it’s only September now (blamed it on the Chinese Lunar Calendar). Here I come again back to where I began, Sarawak Inter Cultural Mooncake Festival. This year the event was less grand and festive as previous years. The number of stalls and performances has also seen a significant reduction. I think this is all due to the lack of people’s interest and also the way local authorities handle things. We should all know how the local authorities work here and also their work ethnics. Sad thing actually…….. Nevertheless, it’s still a festival that deserves participant from all works of life and be enjoyed by everyone.

lanterns display infront of the temple

lanterns of different shapes and colors on sale (anyone want to play lantern with me?)

giant lanterns hanging over the bonsai garden

soothing traditional chinese music playing in the back ground while you enjoy your bonsai appreciation

with all the influx of modern mooncakes, these traditional styles are still the best around

anyone want some cotton candy?

haircut for only RM1!!!!!!!!!! (i'll bring my whole family for it including my aunt, uncle, nephews, nieces, dogs, cats, ......)

even the Malays are enjoying the fest, this shows how we Malaysian live in harmony with all the different races

"chai ming tern" anyone out there who is expert in chinese poetry can have a guess

the majestic temple for you to pray and give thanks to GOD for all of this

BEN & SARAH

2007-09-24T09:43:00.000+08:00

Ben & Sarah

Our leader of the ZOO pack got married on Saturday. It was a beautiful occasions from the church ceremony until the dinner that nite. Ben and Sarah was the perfect couple of the day and everyone was happy for them. Words just can’t describe the mood and feeling on that day so I’ll let the pictures speaks for it self as a picture says a thousand words. All I could say is, may God bless this wonderful couple and Congratulations from all of us ZOO animals!

the wedding ceremony was held at St. Joseph Cathedral

an all white decor inside the church

candle the symbol of life

the happy couple after they were pronouced husband and wife

the wedding reception during the nite was a classy and yet fun celebration

this is the start of our dinner, good food and company

the interesting wedding cake of little cup cakes with fresh flowers swirling around it

Ben & Sarah cutting the cake

what a beautiful wedding

CROCS

2007-09-19T10:18:00.000+08:00

There had been numerous reports and incidents regarding flip flops or slippers stuck in escalators and people got hurt. Most of them are kids and it involves the ever popular Crocs shoes. Most of them blame it on Crocs but if you read carefully about the investigation, it is mostly caused by the negligence of the parents who let their kids jumping and fooling around at the escalators. One of the reasons is also due to the sturdy hold of Crocs shoes on the surface to prevent any slip. This can’t be a bad thing since Crocs are well known for their anti slippery and sturdy construction of their shoes. So please don’t blame it all on Crocs cos you’ll hurt the feelings of my little baby here.

my baby Crocs resting on the grass

NUTTY CHOCOLATE CAKE

2007-09-17T13:06:00.000+08:00

I was so free yesterday until I found myself baking a cake which I seldom do. Although I’m a pretty excellent baker (kanasai!), I will only get my hands dirty when there’s a big party or festive season. That’s when you’ll see me sweating out in the kitchen armed with a spatula and eggs. So for today’s lesson, I’m gonna bake a nutty chocolate cake.

all you need is 5 eggs, 240grms of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 250grms unsalted butter, 140grms caster sugar, 140grms condesed milk, 1 tablespoon of peanut butter, 2 teaspoon of chocolate powder, lots of chopped hazel nut, almonds and chocoloate chips

beat the butter and sugar until fluffy, then add in the eggs one at a time. Mix well and add in the condesed milk, flour and baking powder.

after the mixture is well blended, add in the cocoa powder, almonds, hazel nuts and peanut butter. Mix until evenly blended.

pour into a greassed baking tin and top with chocolate chips. Baked in the over at 160 degrees for 45 minutes over a tray of water.

the end result of my hard work and sweats. Yummy!

MALAYSIA

2007-09-16T10:12:00.000+08:00

Malaysia celebrated its 44th Birthday today. Some might asked me why today and only 44th instead of 31st August and the 50th anniversary. The real Malaysia was only formed in 16th September 1963. Before that, there was no Malaysia and the current states in Malaysia were called Malaya (for Semenanjung), Sabah and Sarawak was still under the British Colony. When Malaysia was formed at that time, it includes Malaya, Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore which later pulled out due to some discrepancies. That’s why Malaysia is only truly 44 years old and she only got her independence on 16th September 1963. Happy Birthday Malaysia!

BDC NOODLES

2007-09-14T10:42:00.000+08:00

can't read chinese so i don't know what it says but from the crowd, you'll know it's really good

Was dragged out early in the morning again for the sack of my KL friend. Brought him to a coffee shop at BDC for some local noodles. It was always packed and people from all works of life love to come here for their noodles. We got carried away gossiping about some newly elected datuk who is a wife of a Big (literally means the size) guy who is a housewife and seems to be not contributing anything to the society yet getting it. Go wonder........

springy noodles with fish meat, prawns, minced pork, char siew and a bowl of seaweed soup, just delicious

SIN SOON LEE 绿山

2007-09-13T13:44:00.001+08:00

entering to the twilight zone

It’s been a long time since I step onto Muara Tebas or more commonly known as 绿山. Since my friend from KL was here, we brought him there for some seafood by the jetty. It was a 30 minutes drive and our driver was very good in avoiding the loop holes on the road. The whole van was filled with laughter and crazy antics just like a bunch of school kids. The air was cold and misty as we reached the jetty and boats were docked by after a day of catch.

Sin Soon Lee just next to the jetty

Since the more popular of the two restaurants was closed for the nite, we opted for the other one. We ordered whatever the waitress introduces to us since she kept on repeating what there have over and over again. So our dinner for that nite was on her hands.

salty vegetable soup with seafood and meat - a little bit bland

deep fried squid - crowd's fav, crispy and yummy!

butter prawns - a bit of a disappointment

oyster omelete (o chien) - another crowd's fav

small lettuce in garlic - the only non meat in our menu

steam fish in teochew style - fresh.....

wash down the meal with a fresh coconut

The dinner was great with the compliment of a drama played next table. The story involves an old man and a girl from China. Seems that the China girl is angry with the old man of neglecting her and not pampering her enough. Very dramatic indeed! After dinner, we all head back in a subtle mood since everyone was too full to joke around anymore. Burp!!!

the gang with the pink KL guy

HEROES, DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES & UGLY BETTY

2007-09-13T10:24:00.000+08:00

Three of my favorite tv shows is going on air soon!!! Can't wait.......

Heroes season 2 - 24th Septmeber 2007

Desperate Housewives season 4 - 30th September 2007

Ugly Betty season 2 - 27th September 2007

THE BANQUET

2007-09-12T14:18:00.000+08:00

The Banquet, a nice a cozy place to have breakfast, lunch or dinner

I was dragged out of bed earlier than usual for breakfast today by a friend of mine from KL. I’m not a morning person and I usually don wake up this early even if it’s for work. I wanted to start cursing when I knew that we are going for dim sum for breakfast this morning. All the anger and sleepiness was swept away by the thought of steaming tray of ‘har kau’ and ‘char siew pau’, even my stomach start growling as an approval already. We head to this new place that just started to served dim sum a week ago and the chef there are very well known, even won a prize or two as what I’ve heard. Arm with high expectation and hungry stomach, we walk in to the big and airy dining hall of The Banquet. The setting is like any other Chinese banquet hall but this is more spacious and minimalist. You’ll feel relaxed and at ease instead of the feeling of overcrowded by all the nick knacks that usual Chinese restaurant had.

spacious and airy with the floor to ceiling high glass wall all around

The place wasn’t packed as its still early but slowly the cat people start crawling in as the time gets by. An interesting thing I notice here was they served the dim sum in trolley like those in Hong Kong but they still have to invest in a real proper dim sum trolley.

a proper dim sum trolley will do nicely if they willing to invest in 1

Overall, nice ambience and food but on the pricey side. Bring people here if you want to impress them. Now, after all these dim sum, I have to drag my feet back to work.

Teochiew siew mai, minced meat and prawn top with fish egg and wrapped in lettuce

char siew che cheong fun, the skin is thin enough but the char siew doesn't taste or look like char siew - kind of disappointing

chicken porridge, the porridge was smooth and top with lots of shredded chicken and crispy bean curd

lo mai kai, glutinous rice steam with chicken, peanuts and dried shrimp

crispy yam puff with char siew, one bite into the yam skin and you'll get steaming hot char siew

deep fried carrot cake, crispy on the outside, soft and smooth on the inside - best eaten with the chilli sauce

deep fried bean curd skin stuff with cheese and prawns -my fav

the king of dim sum - har kau

egg tart, not the usual multi layered skin but instead of the pastry style

char siew pau, nice skin texture with lean pork inside

all wash down with a steaming hot cup of chinese tea, ahh.......

MOON CAKE 101

2007-09-10T13:47:00.000+08:00

moon cake is in the air..........

Ahh…. the smell of moon cake is in the air again. I have to admit that I’m a moon cake addict and I don’t intend to go to any moon cake rehabilitation if there's any exists. Imagine all the different types of moon cakes in all sorts of shapes, sizes and fillings, who can resist it? Not forgetting the creative packaging that they come with nowadays.

nice packaging....

Over this period I will volunteer to be the lab mice and out on my quest to find and taste all the nice moon cakes available out there. Just hope that I don’t get diabetes after the moon cake festival. Well…. all for the sake of you guys. Hehehe!

1st moon cake for the lab mice is from Yong Sheng. Dragon fruit filling with mochi centre. The dragon fruit filling is not so sweet and the moichi gives it a chewy bite. They were given a very nice name too, Auspicious (形容词)

next up is coffee with white lotus paste from Tai Thong. The coffee is subtle and not too over powering the lotus paste. The skin is made of butter instead of the usual that gives it a buttery and fragrant taste.

Another update for the moon cake testing. Tai Thong multi grain moon cake. A healthy version of our usual moon cake with nice crunchy texture.

Hei Yuet Thong is the new kids on the block. Never seen it before and was amazed by the varieties and the beautiful packaging that they have. This particular one is pu-er tea with lotus paste. The tea fragrant is strong just like having the real pu-er tea it self.

Yong Sheng blueberry with mochi. The mild blueberry taste blends well with the lotus paste and the mochi is chewy and QQ

German blackforest by Hei Yuet Thong, chocolate filling with blackforest in the middle. Just like having a really nice dessert

Hie Yuet Thong signature Green Tea with milk. The green tea compliment the milk centre very well. Even the skin is made of green tea. My fav!

Italian espresso with chestnut by Hie Yuet Thong. Aromatic coffee with chestnut center.

INSTANT NOODLE 101

2007-09-07T09:57:00.000+08:00

There’s no home cook today so I have to resolve to instant noodle back home alone. Luckily there’s some imported instant noodle left in the pantry, so I fired up the pot and start my culinary adventure! (who am i kidding? what adventure can you get from instant noodle?)

Today’s ingredient consist of one packet of instant noodle (instant Japanese udon in scallop soup) and my all time favorite spiced pork cubes. Can’t live without pork cubes if I’m having instant noodles.

Boil some water and put in the seasoning after the water is boiled. Getting hungry by the minute.

Next put in the udon and stir well until the udon is properly cooked. I can hear my stomach crying for food already.

Finally, the exquisite udon in superior scallop broth is finished and served with spicy pork cubes. The udon is pretty good considering it just an instant noodle. Bon appétit!

DILEMMA

2007-09-06T11:48:00.000+08:00

I did something really stupid the other day. I was supposed to go for an interview in KL but I turn it down at the last minute. To make things worse, this job was applied by me personally. I thought of a change in environment so I applied for this job in KL. I thought I was ready for the move back to KL but I wasn’t sure. I think the comfort of home makes me reluctant and lazy to move back to KL whereby I have to slave everyday. But, I do miss the pace and life style there, most importantly the higher pay and better opportunity. I guess I’m in a dilemma now. Help please!

CAUSEWAY BAY HONG KONG RESTAURANT

2007-09-03T10:26:00.000+08:00

Causeway Bay Hong Kong restaurant at Crown Square

My passion for dim sum has never been able to fulfill in Kuching due to lack of good dim sum place here. I really wonder why there’s a lack of dim sum place here, doesn’t anyone in meow meow town love dim sum? Finally, my prayer has been answered in the form of Causeway Bay Hong Kong Restaurant. Located at the newly renovated Crown Square at Pending, it is a member of the Lok Thian Group of restaurant. When I first went there a few months back the place was totally deserted. I guess Kuching folks still not awaken by the smell of piping hot dim sum. After been in the dark for so long, Kuching folks finally packed the new restaurant t the brim. Basically you have to line up at the main entrance just to wait for your turn to be seated. Please be more civilized and wait your turn in line, don’t be like some people who are still in the Stone Age and jump queue like you own the place. I encountered that once and the person dare to look back at me as if I am the guilty one.

the morning crowd at the restaurant

They served dim sum from 7 am till 4 pm everyday. Although the dim sum is pork free, they still taste as yummy as those that are not. The ingredients are fresh and best eaten when still hot. One thing that stands out among the sea of dim sum is their ‘polo pau’. This is the real stuff compared with all the imitation sold at our local bakeries. One bite will makes you want for more. Other than dim sum, they also served typical Hong Kong tea house favorite like thick toast, fried rice, noodles, porridge, baked rice and lots more. The drinks are those typical stuff you can find at the local Hong Kong tea house like ‘ying yang’, ‘milk tea’, almond tea etc etc.

a must have at all dim sum restaurant, 'har kau' - succulent fresh prawn wrap in thin skin

typical Hong Kong style egg tart - crispy layered pastry with smooth egg custard

the original style 'polo pau' - crispy buttered skin filled with pineapple custard

siew mai - chicken meat with chinese mushroom, best eaten with sweet chilli sauce

fried dumpling - fresh prawn dumpling fried to perfection with tangy mayo sauce

fried meat balls in special sauce - tender chicken meat in sweet and sour sauce

fried rice with seafood in XO sauce - lots of seafood with fragrant XO sauce, a favorite

Hong Kong style fried beehoon - fried with curry powder and seafood

'ying yang' - combination of tea and coffee, can have it hot or cold, a favorite in Hong Kong

I can’t review all of the food here since I only have a small stomach but I’ll be constantly updating the food once I got the chance to do so. So if you want a taste of Hong Kong, don’t have to fly all the way there, Causeway Bay is the answer for all your cravings.

THE LIVING ROOM

2007-09-01T10:10:00.001+08:00

I spent my 50th Malaysian Birthday in The Living Room. You may ask why of all the places in the world, I would spend a special nite like this in The Living Room. It might sound dull but I can tell you that it’s cozy and nice to have my time around with friends chatting over drinks and relaxing on the floor with lotsa big pillows and soothing lighting. That’s life……

cute floating light balls in the pond

wooden plank patio with bamboo stilts and white clothe draps at the backyard garden to entertain friends and family

garden lounge chair near the pond to chill out after a tiring day at work

an old seesaw that i used to play with

the main living room with long sofas and curtain wall divider

the backyard garden with the pond and light balls

this is my living room

MALAYSIAN 50th BIRTHDAY

2007-08-30T10:33:00.000+08:00

Long holiday is coming up, all thanks to our beloved nation’s 50th birthday. This means more eating, more partying and more money spent. I just wish to have a quiet holiday getting my deserved rest and sleep. Yeah….. I do love to sleep a lot but I prefer to call it hibernating. Bears and other animals do it, so why can’t human do the same. It saves up a lot of energy and most importantly, no money is spent. So let us all hibernate over the weekend. Zzz………

CHICKING EATING HOUSE

2007-08-27T12:40:00.000+08:00

Chicking Eating House at Pertanak new shophouses. Next to Kaya & Toast.

Having lunch with my family is a hard thing to come by. That’s why lunch on Sunday is a memorable event for us. We went to a funny named shop called Chicking Eating House. From the chicken logo on the sign board, you’ll know that it’s a shop selling chicken rice. On the wall, there’s a big menu for you to choose from. There’s chicken rice in steam style, roast style, lemon style and also salad style.

the giant menu on the wall

Take your pick from there and you’ll be greeted with steaming hot soup with fragrant rice and your style of chicken. We opt for the combination of steam and roasted chicken with other condiments.

standard hot soup, fragrant rice and souces

combination of steam and roasted chicken. The steam chicken is soft and tender. I usually fancy roasted version but i found myself indulge the steam version more here.

thai style tofu. Not too spicy and crispy on the outside, soft inside

lemon chicken, fried crispy chicken in lemon sauce

chicken ginzard, i don't eat these but my parents love it.

The lunch was great except for the annoying prepaid mobile card seller who came in like a tour group and start their selling pitch. Since Kuala Lumpur have Chicken Rice Shop, we have Chicking Eating House here.

ZOO MATES

2007-08-22T19:31:00.001+08:00

I’ve known these guys since primary school and we had been good friends until now. I still remember those days when we would go to school in the afternoon to attend our extra-curriculum activities and went for our favorite fried sotong and fish ball at the old Rex Cinema. Those were the days when we are still young and we were like the big shot in our School Brass Band. Basically we call all the shots and who ever go against us will be eliminated. Come to think of it, no one ever dare to do so. Hehehe! Time has passed and even though some of us are all no longer staying in Kuching, we still keep in touch and are there for each other when needed. We called ourselves the Zoo since each of us got our own unique animal nick name. So without further delay, let me introduce you all to my Zoo mates.

the eldest in the zoo, Benedict aka the Cat. He is our big brother who look over our shoulder. Always not in good terms with the Dog. Had a few drama arising from their clashes that can even compete with those Hong Kong drama series. Getting married this September. Congrats Bro!

Albert aka the Jellyfish. The nick name fits him perfectly because he don't dare to speak up and what ever we ask him to do, he'll do it. We just love to bully him. He's the artist in our Zoo.

Me aka the Crab. I used to love pitching people and that's how i get that nick name. My pitching skill is so perfect that even real crabs have to learn from me...

Raymond aka the Chicken. He is the calculative type. Count every penny and even calories. Always get the best out from what he buys or eat. Getting married in December in Australia. Congrats Chicken!

Steve aka the Pig. He used to be so chubby and cute. He is the genius in our Zoo. Everything he touched turns into gold and nothing can be impossible for him. Congrats on the new baby piglet!

Eddie aka the Dog. Nemesis of the Cat. He is the drama queen in our Zoo and if there's a Academy Awards in Malaysia, he is the front runner. Love bitching about everything under the sun.

Gerald aka the buffalo. The bully in our Zoo. He can really argue with you even those Ah Sam in the pasar will loose to him. Even though he is the bully, he is also the mediator.

INTERNATIONAL BORNEO KITE FESTIVAL 2007

2007-08-19T22:41:00.001+08:00

welcome to International Borneo Kite Festival

International Borneo Kite Festival is in its 3rd year. This time round, I managed to catch it before I head back to my home town. The day I went there, they just started the festival and not much kite was on display and most of the participants were not there yet. Heard that there will be participation from 10 countries and they will be vying for the grand prize this year. Even though I went there when it just started, I managed to catch a glimpse of the things to watch out for. There’s even a trade show besides the colorful display of the kites.

giant octopus in the sky

even stingray join in the fun

drago taking a rest in flying

one happy family in the sky

ever seen a kite powered bike

colorful kites on sale

giant octopus hovering over the trade fair

even this horse thinks he can fly

TOP TEN SONGS

2007-08-18T22:00:00.000+08:00

I’ve wanted to do this for a very long time. My all time top ten favorite songs. Well... ok, ok, I admit that I’m bored so I come up with this list just to fill up my idling time. Here we go…. in no particular order:

1. Dreaming of You – Selena
2. Pieces Don’t Fit Anymore – James Morrison
3. Tong Hua – Guang Liang
4. Tian Kong – Faye Wong
5. Water Runs Dry – Boyz II Men
6. If You’re Not the One – Daniel Bedingfield
7. Eternal Flame – The Bangles
8. We Belong Together – Mariah Carey
9. Home – Michael Buble
10. What Hurt the Most – Rascal Flatts

Well, from the list you can see that I’m a sentimental kind of guy. I choose these songs because they represent something important in my life. There’s a story behind each of these songs which I can’t disclosed here because if I tell you, I have to kill you.

DATUK HERE, DATUK THERE

2007-08-12T20:04:00.000+08:00

From Borneo Post today (very true and what is Datukship anyway?):

FIVE-YEAR-OLD Christopher’s grandfather was recently awarded the title “Datuk.” The youngster was confused. “What’s so special about it? Kong kong (grandfather) has been a “datuk” to all his grandchildren for a long time,” Christopher wondered aloud. Dato, Datu, Datuk or Datuk Seri to name a few, are all respectable titles. The very name touches the heart of many. It’s “grandfather” to grandchildren… and also the “husband” of “nenek”, the wise, gentle and gracious grandmother. If one lives long enough to be fondly called “datuk” by one’s grandchildren, then one should be a happy and contented man. It is the love and respect shown him by his family that warm the cockles of the datuk’s heart. He deserves to be called “Datuk” by his grandchildren. Two decades ago, when we started our career in journalism, there were not many “Datuks” around. The title was held in such high esteem then that the very presence of a “Datuk” at a function usually added greater grandeur and reverence to the celebration. Probably, during those days, a “Datuk” was equivalent to a knighthood or “sir.”

Today, there appears to be a big surplus of “Datuks.” People as young as 30 can also become a “Datuk.” It is small wonder jokes associated with this rather superfluous practice are heard now and then. If you throw a stone at a crowd, you would probably hit a Datuk. Jump from the Twin Towers, you would probably land on a Datuk. What is the significance behind the title “Datuk”? Why and how are people awarded a “Datukship”? None says it better than the late Tan Sri Khir Johari. When the affable former Federal Cabinet Minister passed away on November 10 last year, he was respectfully remembered for many for his candid sayings. “You must serve first and prove yourself. Only then can you accept titles and awards.” In a tribute to Tan Sri Khir, the then chief editor of Bernama, Datuk Azman Ujang related the story of the man and his “Tan Sriship” and “Datukship.”

Azman, now general manager of Bernama wrote: “On the eve of the formation of Malaysia, the Tunku called him and said: Khir, I think it’s high time you became a Datuk because it’s very odd you representing us without any title” … to which Khir replied: Tunku, I very seldom disagree with you but on this occasion, I must. Let me ask you a question — are you sending a Datuk or are you sending Khir Johari?

“The Tunku then called up Khir’s wife and told her over tea: Go and persuade your stubborn husband to get the Datukship. She replied: Have you done it? If you have and he won’t, don’t expect me to succeed. It’s impossible.

“The Tunku never brought up the subject again. There were later attempts to give Khir a title but after sometime, it was assumed he would turn it down anyway. “As Khir explained: My wife knew me far too well. There are certain things I hold dear. And I have this very important principle that while you are active politically, you shouldn’t accept any title. Your values, your achievements should be appreciated after your retirement, so that people can see what you’ve really done.

“Winston Churchill, for example, didn’t get his title until after his retirement. This is a principle which I don’t force on anybody but myself.” Through his 21-year career as Ministers of Education, Health, Agriculture and Cooperatives as well as Commerce and Industry, he remained plain Che Khir to friends and peers alike.

Truly, only after he quit active politics in 1986 that he agreed to accept titles and honours after turning down several offers of “Datukship” previously. Many in the media would remember a congratulatory note from the Tunku that read “Khir Johari has come of age” when the latter was bestowed the title “Tan Sri” by the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong on the occasion of His Majesty’s 54th birthday that year (1986).

Indeed, in the eyes of many, Khir more than deserved the title “Tan Sri” for his service to the nation. He was quoted as having said: “I want to contribute to national unity… national unity in the true sense of the word. Ask me to do any job which will contribute towards that and I will do it without any question. And once that has been achieved, I will die a happy man.”

Yet this man was very modest about it, even saying he never envisaged he would one day be conferred a title. The nation would not forget how we called the plain and straightforward Encik Ghafar Baha throughout his public life. Even when he was serving as Deputy Prime Minister from 1986-93, he was addressed as “Encik.” The “Encik” was only replaced with “Tun” when he retired and accepted the award from the King.

It is widely said you can “buy” a “Datukship” from some of the states in the country. This cannot be confirmed but I believe it was not without reason that Culture Arts and Heritage Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim at one time alleged some Datukship recipients paid for the title.

On this “flood of award recipients”, Rais urged Menteri Besar to advise their respective Sultans or Heads of State on the standards of recipients by closely scrutinising their merits, services and personalities. Rais even said: “This is corruption.”

Last year, the Sultan of Selangor, Sharafuddin Idris Shah said he had imposed stricter conditions on eligibility for Selangor State titles, particularly the Datukship. This is indeed a timely move to protect the image and dignity of the award. Has Datukship become cheap? Several people here concur the country and perhaps the city indeed have an excess of such title recipients.

A senior officer, who requested anonymity, felt too many people these days were attracted to honorific titles which, he said, was an unhealthy sign. “Not only Datukship — people also go for degrees, PhDs (doctorates) and other titles,” he said. The officer said genuine and deserving cases won’t do any harm but if people who were not deserving, got awarded, then the dignity and value of the title would be reduced.

“It’s quite shameful to think people are rushing to get the title (Datukship)… so much so that it has become a trend in society,” he said. Sarawak Democratic Action Party publicity chief David Wong said those who were conferred should command high respect from the community. The conferment entitled them to a wide range of benefits such as VIP treatment at the various government functions, he noted.

“They are also accorded special status, special rights and a host of other privileges. “Not surprisingly, this has given rise to a mad rush for Datukship as a way to boost social ratings, reputation and self-esteem,” he added.

But when too many people became attracted to such an award, Wong did not discount the possibility that it would lead to the misinterpretation of the very word “Datuk”. It’s equivalent to the popular saying that too many cooks, spoil the soup… and if there are too many Datuks, naturally, the title loses its gloss and value.

In the past, Datukship was conferred on those who toiled endlessly and tirelessly for the community. These were the people who really deserved the title, given as a way to appreciate and recognise their contributions to society. “Nowadays, it’s a completely different scenario. The conferment of Datukship has become too commercialised, so much so that it has lost its value,” Wong said.

He felt Datukship must only be given to those who really deserved it and their track records of providing community service and nation-building must all be taken into consideration. “I do not mean to say those conferred do not deserve it. If they think they deserve it, it’s fine but they should ask themselves whether they deserve it or not. Only they themselves know.” Wong said he did not harbour any grudge against the Datuks. “To me, they are fine people who have the means and the heart to help the people in time of need. They will help sponsor events and provide the necessary funds.

After all, as Datuks, they are there to help, both financially and socially. We need more Datuks like that.” However, Wong said if the Datuks misused their positions, then it would be something regrettable. A Datuk, who was conferred the title in the early 1970’s, declined to comment on the emergence of so many Datuks in recent years. His only advice to the recipients is to prove their worth.

MERSAWA

2007-08-11T14:29:00.001+08:00

Bintulian can finally rejoice for their cravings for proper and good dim sum has finally ended. The savior here is the new food court at Parkcity Mall called Mersawa. When I first stumble upon this food court, I thought it was some Japanese food chain but after close inspection, it turns out to be a local food court with some nifty decorations and style. It resembles a lot more of a chic café than a food court. With bright orange and white colors splash around the place and a touch of elegance with timber grain counters.

Mersawa Food Republic at Parkcity Mall top floor

chic decoration

choose from any counter that you fancy

You can get varieties of delicacies here ranging from chicken rice to some double boiled soup to nourish the soul and mind. I’m there to try out their dim sum and was amazed to found out that they served hotel standard fare there. The little precious dim sum was molded into various shapes with different fillings in each one. From the look of the crowds, I bet it will be a hit with the Bintulu folks since prices are reasonable and most importantly, it taste good.

polo char siew bun - the butter milk crust on top of the bun makes the bun more fragrant and sweet with the char siew inside

pear shaped dim sum filled with mash potatoes and mildly spiced curry meat

fresh shrimp dumpling - crunchy and springy prawns with chinese water chestnuts

stuff dim sum with minced prawns, chives, squids and coated with noodles

fried spring rolls stuffed with roast pork

bitter guard sweet balls with red bean paste - its sweet and not a hint of bitter from the bitter guard

KUCHING FEST FOOD FAIR

2007-08-08T22:24:00.000+08:00

Food glorious food! How can food be missing out from any festival in Malaysia. Malaysian favorite past time is eating by the way. That is why Kuching Fest integrated a food fair as part of their annual event. It’s been 19 years and yet the food fair is still the most popular event on the calendar. It also has been an annual event for me to pay a visit or twice to the food fair just to indulge myself in all those food.

mashmallow in different style

lok-lok anyone?

choose what you like

sawadekap..... Thai anyone?

happy feet land

my favourite Teochew stall

ping pang Chinese style

don cha just love chocolate

Pick any of your favorite from any stalls which include local fare to Thai, Indonesian and all the way to Korean. The problem here is finding a space to sit and enjoy your meal since there are too many people and yet too little chairs and tables. For those who are on a strict diet, there’s trade show showcasing house hold items to exotic cars and even bridal services.

trade fair

who put my car here?

even Pink Panther can't resist the food fair

There are also nightly performances by dancers and singers prancing around the stage. After all the food and dancing, you can take a stroll down the garden show behind the park just to wind down the evening.

let's do the tango

welcome to my garden

this is where Kermit the frog stay

KUCHING FEST STREET PARADE

2007-08-05T15:07:00.000+08:00

Kuching comes alive once a year around August. She can dance; jump, shout and party all nite long and nobody dare to stop her. It’s her birthday that’s why. She is 19 this year and stills a very young feline. Once a year, on behalf of her birthday, humans gave her a grand celebration to let everyone knows she’s a fun loving feline. The celebration kicks off with a street parade that starts from MBKS hall to the Padang Mederka. Throngs of people, young and old lined up the street to witness the colorful display of dance, song and even some naughty feline running around. It all lasted a good 2 ½ hours which left you asking for more. Tried to capture some good photos but with my very limited camera, I managed just a few good shots. Nevertheless, we are all gonna party along with this big feline till we drop. HAPPY BIRTHDAY KUCHING!

police were there to clear the street before the fun begins

different types of bicycles

the different coloured people of Kuching

beware of the young warrior

the grown up version of the warrior

even flowers come out to party

giants of Kuching

the big cat doing pole dancing

SIMILAJAU NATIONAL PARK

2007-07-29T15:10:00.000+08:00

welcome to Similajau National Park

we managed to hike up to the view point and to Tg. Lubok Padok

For those who love jungle trekking, Taman Negara Similajau located near Bintulu town is the ideal place to go. Just a 30 minutes from the town centre towards the Kidurong area and you’ll be greeted by blue waters and swaying lush green trees.

clear water and sandy beaches

beware of crocodiles, didn't see any but we did stumble across a snake

You can either go for a day trip or opt to stay over nite at the park it self. For the more adventurous, you can camp at the many camp sites along the stretch of the park. Since we were there on an impromptu visit, we can only take in the beautiful sights of the park and go for a short hike into the forest.

our journey start here

more bridges to cross

dense jungle to explore

up we climb and down we go

The 4 hours journey brought us into the dense jungle and out to a secluded beach with crystal clear water. It’s a very rewarding hike but we were almost died of exhaustion after we reach back to civilization.

South China Sea from the view point

rocky beach at Tg. Lubok Padok

If we had planned the trip earlier, we might even ventured out further into the very end of the park which gonna take 8 hours just to reach there. The park is a nice place to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city except for the RM 10 entrance fee.

MIN's CAFE

2007-07-22T13:12:00.000+08:00

Min's Cafe located opposite Sinly Stationeries behind Park City Mall

It’s hard to find good Sarawak Laksa anywhere else except in Kuching. After much prayer, my effort finally came true in Bintulu. Min’s Café is located just opposite Sinly Stationeries behind Park City Mall. If you are expecting a full blown coffee shop, you’ll be disappointed since they only have a few stalls operating at the moment. It’s pretty quiet when we are there unlike other coffee shop on Sunday morning. I think this is due to its location and also it just opened recently. I went there upon recommendation from my friend and I really have to thank him for that.

Sarawak Laksa good till the last drop

The Sarawak Laksa served there are on par with those served back in Kuching. The soup is not too thick neither diluted and with the combination of the belacan paste provided, it’s just delicious till the last drop. After a bowl of the Sarawak Laksa, it really brings back the feeling of morning breakfast in Kuching. The lady owner is a bubbly lady; keep on asking me if it’s too spicy after seeing me sweating like a pig slurping the soup dry. I told her its just oomph!

TANJUNG BATU

2007-07-14T20:04:00.000+08:00

Tanjung Batu

I found out that the favorite pastime for Bintulian (Bintulu folks) is going to the beach. There are a few beaches dotting the coast line of Bintulu and Tanjung Batu is one of them. It’s popular during the weekends and holiday since it’s only a few minutes away from town.

my little friend

abstract on the beach

The beach is clean and the water is cooling. The whole stretch is dotted with trees and nicely landscaped gardens. There are even facilities like children playground, resting area and BBQ pit for a little picnic. Even if you don’t like the hassle to prepare your food, there’s food stalls around where you can sip fresh coconut under the swaying palm trees.

family fun on the beach

It’s a really nice place if you want to clear your mind or just enjoy the sunset as I did. A romantic stroll along the beach against the sun setting back drop is what I’m dreaming of now.

sunset

BOSS

2007-07-10T21:09:00.000+08:00

I finally did it! I did what most people wouldn’t dare to do. I gave my piece of mind to my BOSS! I just poured it all out and spill all the bad and injustice the company had done to me all these years. Not just me along but also all my colleagues in an indirect way. I think I reached a point where I just couldn’t just sit there and being incorrectly treated from all my hard works. I think I can say for myself that I’m a decent employee and I did all my duties diligently. It’s time for me to let them hear what I have to say and I did all these through e-mail (Just Follow Laws). Now….. if anyone out there who want to employ me please take me in as I think I’ll be jobless soon.

BUMBLEBEE

2007-07-04T20:45:00.000+08:00

I’m in love with Bumblebee. Even though it’s just a mechanical robot, it really shows a human side of it for his devotion and care towards human. The sadness and fear that Bumblebee shows when he was caught really makes me think that he is more human than human itself. I think everyone of us would love to have a car like that.

TRANSFORMERS

2007-07-01T01:31:00.000+08:00

I’ve been playing with Transformers figurines since I was at a very tender age. I can still vividly remembered that I would wake up early on Sunday morning just to watched the cartoon series and pestered my parents to buy me the figurines each time we passed by the toy shop. I would do anything to get my hands on Optimus Prime, Bumble Bee or any of them. At last my love for Transformers has been transformed into the big screen. I just finished watching it with my friends and all I could say is WOW! There’s blend of action, comedy and drama all executed seamlessly. I would give it a rating of 9/10! Autobots move out!

INCREASE OUR SALARY!

2007-06-26T14:19:00.000+08:00

I got stuck in an hour jam inside my office car park. I was cursing and wandering what happen down there that makes the unusual jam in the car park. The cars seem to be motionless in front of me. After slowly and patiently guiding my car down to the exit, I realize the culprit behind all these chaos. MTUC (Malaysian Trade Union Congress) was holding a demonstration in front of the office building. The police were there so were the reporters. They were shouting “Increase our salary! Prices are going up but our salary still the same!” They were carrying banners and singing along the main road while onlookers just stare at them. I was furious about the jam at first but after seeing what they do, I salute them! I wish I could join them but they were packing up and leave. Whatever it is, I really want to thank them as they are the voice of the many private sectors workers who never dare to speak out. Thank you MTUC!

EMPTY

2007-06-25T13:26:00.000+08:00

Ever just stare into your computer screen or anything but your mind is blank? You just sit there and wandering what are you going to do and why are you even sitting down there? Everything seems to be empty and nothing that crosses your mind is right. You try to think so hard but yet nothing seems to be working. Then you felt very tired and just wanna go and lie down to forget everything that just happen or going to happen. All these just struck me and I’m empty………..

PARKCITY MALL

2007-06-20T20:46:00.001+08:00

new spanking mall

1st Thing i do when i arrived back in Bintulu is a visit to Parkcity Mall near Parkcity here. A new spanking mall for the folks here since there aren't any proper mal here yet. Nothing much to see as not many outlets has open yet.

this is wher i had my dinner

I stop by at Marrybrown to have my dinner and went to New World Mart to get some groceries. There are a few new players here that can't even be found in Kuching yet like Samuel&Kevin and Baleno. A good mall with good prospect if they managed it properly. At last i won't be bored here anymore. A sign of relief!

the place i got my groceries

李玖哲 (Nicky Lee)

2007-06-19T14:24:00.000+08:00

his current album

I stumble upon this talented Korean singer when I was watching the Golden Melody Awards 2007 on tv. I normally didn’t really care about the Chinese entertainment industry but was curious on what the award was all about, so I watched on. Apparently Nicky Lee is a Korean who can sing in Mandarin. He is now based in Taiwan and already churned out 2 albums. With his current album, he just won Best Male Artist at the Grammy of Taiwan. I was really impressed by his talent and now hooked on his songs. I think it has to do with Korean singing in Mandarin with a Korean slang. Keep up the good work Nicky and congrats on your award!

SYLER (HEROES)

2007-06-18T16:38:00.001+08:00

Syler....... the villain in Heroes. The thing i'm confused is how does he absorb powers from other people. Does he just crack open their heads and drink the juice or what? A friend of mine came up with the theory that he stares into their eyes to get their powers and then kill them so he will be the only one with that power. Another thing, what power does he originally has? Anyone?

CHONG CHOON

2007-06-18T12:39:00.001+08:00

Chong Choon

The word Laksa is widely known in Malaysia. When people think of Laksa, they think of the Penang Laksa. I did try it before when I was in Penang but no matter how famous and delicious people tell me, I still hate it. The smell of fish just puts me off. Then there’s the KL Laksa which I always argue with my KL pal that it is just curry mee and not Laksa at all. There are many types of Laksa around but my absolute favorite is Sarawak Laksa. Some people might say it’s just like a prawn curry based noodle but for me, it’s LAKSA. You can find Sarawak Laksa everywhere you go in Kuching and people here have it almost every morning. One of my favorite places to have it is Chong Choon at Abell Road. Just a little coffee shop tuck in between two rows of shop houses.

not so packed as its close to closing time

Come every morning, the place is packed with people in suits and ties sipping coffee and not forgetting, the Laksa soup. I always have to stalk the dinners there to get a place to sit but today I was lucky enough as it’s almost closing time for them. By the way, it’s only 10.30 in the morning.

my fav Laksa, good to the last drop

Our Laksa come and we devour every single drop of the soup. The soup is full in flavor but not too thick as in murky and the bee hoon is just springy and not soggy. The bean sprouts are crunchy and the prawns are fresh. Just perfect to go with the rest of the Laksa. Not forgetting is the belacan and lime to accompany with the soup. I always mixed everything up and have my way down to the last drop. All in all, it cost just RM3.50 per bowl and worth everything single cent. What can I ask for more?

after all the Laksa, this is the way to wash it down with, a perfect compliment

HEROES

2007-06-15T23:54:00.000+08:00

The phenomenal TV series, Heroes just ended its 1st season. In the end, Peter managed to kill Syler with the help of Hiro. We all saw Syler on the ground and everyone else is saved except for Hiro who is teleported back into time. But, is Syler really gone for good? Anybody guess actually as it doesn’t really show Syler corpse or anything. My theory, he is still save and alive. Just look carefully where the blood of Syler flows in the end. The manhole cover was opened also. Does that mean that he managed to escape without anyone’s knowledge? We all have to wait until season 2 for the answer. From the words of the creator, Tim Krin, he did mention that he might feature an all new Heroes for season 2. That is very weird since season 1 seems to be hanging in the air. Let’s just wait till end of the year for season 2 and we’ll all start to glue ourselves to the TV again.