Tony Blair launches Faith Foundation

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair,joined by his old friend Bill Clinton,launched his Faith Foundation on Friday with a call for more idealism and less religious extremism.Taking a break from the presidential campaign of his wife, Hillary Clinton,the former U.S. president described Blair as "a good man as well as a great leader" and said the Faith Foundation would build on Clinton's own foundation's work in using religion to bridge divides.

Blair said he was inspired to create the Faith Foundation by the Clinton Global Initiative,which works on issues of poverty,climate change,health and education.Blair,who is an international envoy for Palestinian economic development,said increasing globalization requires peaceful coexistence and cooperation.Blair cited a Gallup Poll showing the percentage of people in most Muslim countries who said religion was an important part of their lives is in the high 80s or 90s; in the United States around 70 percent,and in Europe under 40 percent.Among the foundation's goals will be to counter extremism,which he said was present in all the six leading faiths -- Christian,Muslim,Hindu,Buddhist,Sikh and Jewish.The foundation also will partner with a group called Malaria No More which aims to prevent the 1 million annual deaths from malaria within 10 years -- a goal Blair said was achievable by using bed-nets and medicines.Malaria No More encourages mosques,churches and other religious institutions help distribute those items.

When I heard this news,I was really pleased because I think it is a great idea which I hope could bring the different religion together and also bring peace throughout the world instead of violence caused by the misunderstandings between one religion with another.I know a lot about the Clinton Global Initiative which is a really great foundation and has help a lot of people with pressing issues around the world such as healthcare and poverty and I think the Faith Foundation could just do as well as the Clinton Global Initiative because it will help to complement the effort of the CGI and I hope it will bring the different religion closer and help one another when in need and at the same time,helping to understand the different religion better.I found the statistics by the Gallup Poll very interesting though.As a Muslim myself,I know that many of us treat our religion as a very important issue so that wasnt so surprising but the results for the other parts are.If we could get all of the results in the highs 80s or 90s that would be even better.

Some of you might find it interesting and ironic that a man like Tony Blair,who supported the war in Iraq when he was still the Prime Minister,has decided to start a faith foundation.But I think lets have an open mind because I believe Mr Blair is very sincere in his effort to bring the different religion closer together.For those of you who doesnt know yet,Mr Blair treat religion as a very important thing.He also enjoys enjoys being part of a worldwide community with shared values,traditions and rituals.Currently,we have seen a huge change in how faith based groups and social activists are treating each other.In the past,they used to be two communities that long treated each other with distrust,thinking themselves poles apart politically,but now,they have come together to tackle issues of global poverty and health and the Faith Foundation is set up to help further help the continuation of this noble effort.

Nevertheless,there are still some hurdles that he needs to overcome if he is ever to achieve his goals.Religion is not an uncontroversial matter in the developing world,you just have to witness how the Catholic Church's doctrine on abortion and contraception is or the discrimination that women face in many Islamic societies.Moreover,in many nations,the legacy of the "war on terror" and the invasion of Iraq,both of which Blair is deeply associated with,have affected the way on how Muslims look upon the Westerners and vice versa.But he shouldnt be fault for not trying to change the situation.Blair says his foundation will try to ensure that faiths encounter one another "through action as much as dialogue" which I completely agree is a very important thing if wants to achieve any success.

Anyway,at the end of the day,whatever faith or religion that you belongs to,it is important to keep in mind that we all should share a common goal and that people of different faiths need to learn more about one another and understand where we can work in common if we want to have any possibility of having a world with different people of different religion living together peacefully.Of course,it is much more easier to say than done but we have to try.

The article was taken from REUTERS.

Are Ahmadinejad's Days Numbered?

Earlier this week,we saw an interesting development in Iran's political scene which could shape the course of the upcoming presidential election which is schedule to be held next year.Ali Larijani,a former top nuclear negotiator for Iran and a high-profile arch-rival of the President,has accepted his election as speaker on Wednesday.It wasn't a good news for Ahmadinejad,after his party lost 70% of the seats in the 290-seat parliament,known as the Majlis to the conservatives.

Larijani recently addressed global themes in his address to the opening session of the Majlis,dressing down the International Atomic Energy Agency and praising Hizballah which surprisingly,received a congratulatory call from European Union Foreign Policy Chief Javier Solana.While Iran's insistence on its right to enrich uranium unites all major factions in the country,Larijani represents a more pragmatic approach to handling the issue,aimed at finding agreement with the West and avoiding confrontation.Larijani's stunning return to center stage in Iranian politics makes two things clear: President Ahmadinejad's hold on power is slipping badly,and next year's Iranian presidential election race is now wide open.Ahmadinejad's defeat in the Majlis is the latest sign of the ferment within Iran's ruling conservative coalition,which dominates the legislature.Larijani engineered two impressive political victories,first to win a seat in the 290-member assembly,and then to oust a sitting speaker.

Prominent politicians and clerical figures have begun distancing themselves from Ahmadinejad and rallying around Larijani.While he still enjoys solid popular support,many Iranians bitterly complain that inflation and unemployment have left the economy in a shambles despite record oil revenues.There is a major different between Larijani and Ahmadinejad in their views toward Iranian foreign policy.Ahmadinejad has taken a provocative stance in the now-suspended negotiations over Iran's nuclear program,but Larijani believes Iran's interests are better served with a constructive dialogue aimed at building Western confidence that Iran's uranium-enrichment activities will not be diverted into the construction of nuclear weapons.Larijani has never said that he would want to take part in the upcoming election though,and some Iranian insiders believethat Larijani will ultimately prefer to remain as parliament speaker rather thanrisk losing to Ahmadinejad in the '09 race.

Back in 2005,Larijani finished near the bottom in the 2005 multi-candidate election that brought Ahmadinejad to power.Nevertheless,his comeback provesthere is deep discontent within conservative circles over Ahmadinejad'sleadership,and raises the likelihood that the incumbent will be strongly challenged by another leading conservative presidential candidate.Among thosecontenders may be the popular mayor of Tehran,Mohammed-Baqer Qalibaf,who hascriticized Ahmadinejad's belligerent foreign policy statements and mishandlingof the Iranian economy.Larijani's political comback certainly had the blessingof Supreme Leader Ayatullah Ali Khamenei — who wields executive power in Iranand he may be prepared to sanction challenges to Ahmadinejad's reelection next year,according to analyst.But whatever it is,whether Larijani will actually takepart in the upcoming election,he is likely to use his high-profile post as parliamentary speaker to question Ahmadinejad's policies and offer alternativesand with the backing of Khamenei,it could spell disaster for Ahmadinejad.

It was an interesting article to read for me because sometime ago,I wouldnt have thought that Ahmadinejad is going to have any problem heading into the upcoming election but with Larijani's comeback and his huge lost of support,I think he could be well be out of office come 2009.I don't know if Ahmadinejad has actually done a great job since becoming a President.I know for a fact that he is still quite popular with the majority of the people,nevermind the people in the government but the Iranian economy is not doing that well.I also think that the current government has not been very open about their nuclear programmes which is not helpful if they want to improve their relations with the West or America in particular.I think its about time they put aside their differences and come together and discuss openly about their nuclear plans.If they have nothing to hide,then I don't see why they are refusing to talk.It will only increase the suspicion from the West that Iran do have other motives in developing their nuclear plans.

I dont know which side is to blame here because both Iran and America are accusing each other of not being open to the possibility of talking to each other.In fact yesterday,Iran's foreign minister said that the United States should conduct a "serious review" of its foreign policy after the presidential election,a signal that Iran is leaving open the possibility of improved relations with Washington.A WhiteHouse spokesman said in reply that the "Iranian government is pursuing policies that are inimical to the interests of the Iranian people" and isolating the country from the international community by the standoff over its nuclear program. U.S. Democratic presidential candidate,Barack Obama has said that he has expressed a willingness to open new channels with Iran - a position that has drawn fire from Republican John McCain and Obama's Democratic rival Hillary Clinton.Therefore,it would be interesting to see what will happen if Obama wins the election and Ahmadinejad losing the election next year.

I hope if that happens,it will open to a new chapter between the relationship of both country.I think Ahmadinejad will lose the election because if he stays,I doubt that will be willing to talk to the West despite what the Iranian foreign minister has said.But both country need to work together if they are to achieve success and stop finding reasons to blame each other whoever the president may be.

This article was taken from TIME.

The six-plus-five rule...

If you're a football fan,Im sure you know what I am talking about.But for those of you who don't like football at all,no,it is not a maths equation.I am talking about a new football rule,suggested by FIFA president Sepp Blatter which aims at nurturing more home grown talents and to make sure that there is better balance in the competitions and not only three or four teams in a league of 18 or 20 are fighting to be the champion and all the others are just there to not be relegated.

The rule would limit every team to only five foreign players in their starting 11 which means six of them have to be players from the respective leagues country.Let's say if you are an English team,then six of the players in the starting 11 will have to be of england nationality while the other five could be from other nationality.The FIFA boss has pointed to the Premier League's dominance in this season's Champions League as as example of why his organisation must implement the idea,despite legal concerns from the European Union.His vision appears to be a step closer following the overwhelming backing at FIFA's annual congress in Sydney,Australia.However though,he will have to do some convincing as the European Union has already indicated that it is opposing the idea as it would contravene European laws.The Football Association (FA) has also voiced out its concern over the rule.

The rule would limit every team to only five foreign players in their starting 11 which means six of them have to be players from the respective leagues country.Let's say if you are an English team,then six of the players in the starting 11 will have to be of england nationality while the other five could be from other nationality.The FIFA boss has pointed to the Premier League's dominance in this season's Champions League as as example of why his organisation must implement the idea,despite legal concerns from the European Union.His vision appears to be a step closer following the overwhelming backing at FIFA's annual congress in Sydney,Australia.However though,he will have to do some convincing as the European Union has already indicated that it is opposing the idea as it would contravene European laws.The Football Association (FA) has also voiced out its concern over the rule.

If you remember sometime ago,UEFA,European football's governing body has proposed something similar before which has been approved by the EU but there is a major different.Their version of 'home-grown players' stated that four players in a Champions League or Uefa Cup squad must have been developed by the club,with another four having been produced by clubs from the same federation for at least three years between the ages of 15 and 21.Blatter wants to restrict the number of foreign players in teams by the start in the 2010/11 season,with a minimum of four home-grown players.He added he expects it to grow to six,with a maximum of five foreigners,by 2012/13 and claims the plan has the backing of key European delegates.Nothing is finalised yet though but Blatter will have a meeting with the EU on June 5 to discuss the matter further.

I understand what are the concerns of Mr Blatter but I don't know if the idea is actually feasible.Let's take the Premier League for example.Many people says it is probably the best league in the world and this season's Champions League final probably prove why.However,the downside of the league is that they have more number of foreign players in most of the team and more english born players are getting lesser opportunities to start in a game or be in one of the top clubs.Most of them are playing in the 2nd or 3rd division and it is very difficult for them to move to the next level as more Premier League clubs are looking abroad to bring in new players as well as bringing youngsters from abroad to train for the future,hence making it more difficult for the english players,in particular the youngsters to get the breakthrough that they want and really need.Let's look at last season statistics.

On average,there were only four players available for England duty in each Premier League starting line-up last season.As you can see there, Arsenal had the lowest number of English starters, averaging 0.34 per match,while West Ham had the highest number,with 6.61.The Hammers and Aston Villa (6.42) were the only two clubs in the Premier League to average more than six English starters last term,while the big four of Manchester United,Chelsea,Arsenal and Liverpool,averaged just 2.64 per game.Therefore,you can see where Mr Blatter's concern is comign from.However,I dont think the idea of having 6 home grown players starting a match is a good one especially in the Premier League because its a global brand and I don't think many clubs will go well with the rule.It would be interesting what will happen to a club like Arsenal if the rule is actually being implemented.I think the current UEFA rule is enough to solve or at least help to diffuse the current situation.Football is a global business,hence you need to go global to find new players but you shouldnt forget your local players.They too needs to be given the opportunity to shine on the big stage or their talents will go unnoticed.this could go further to increase the already ridiculous prices that clubs pay for English players.

If the FIFA plan does go through,I think it will be even more difficult for the clubs to attract foreign players and we will see more efforts being put into the academy system.It is not that england is lacking quality home grown players,but what if we come into a situation where clubs are being force to put their faith on their home grown players because of the lack of quality players in the team when in truth,they are not ready yet.This rule could also go further to increase the already ridiculous prices that clubs pay for English players and most probably,the most wealthy clubs (the top 4) will end up with all of the good ones.I think there should be a limit between the number of foreign players a club can buy in a season,maybe it will work I dont know.But it will be interesing to see if FIFA plan will actually be approve rather than limiting the number of foreign players in the starting 11.

As you can see,I have talk about the Premier League and the english teams for most of the time but it actually applies to all the other league in other countries as well.I talk about the english teams in particular because I think they will be affected the most.In any case,I hope the plan will not go through but at the same time,I hope that the top teams in the Premier League will give the english born players more opportunities to play in the first team.

*The report was taken from TEAMtalk and BBC.

The 'Don't Just Visit,READ!' Campaign...

Have you ever ask yourself why you decided to start a blog? Was it because you are too lazy to write down your daily experience in a diary or a journal or was it because by starting a blog,you are able to share your daily experience with other people?

And,have you ever wondered if your blog is actually being read by your friends or whether they just come and visit your blog just to tag your blog.I am sure everyone of you would like to have your friends actually read what you have just written down instead of just visting for a few seconds and just tag your chatbox without reading what you have actually posted.If you dont wish your friends to read what you have posted,then you shouldnt have start to blog in the first place.I know for those of you who visit your friend's blog,it might be a waste of time for you to read everything that he/she has posted on their blog regarding their daily life because some of them have a pathetic life and a boring life and whatever they do is none of your concern right? But try not to think that way and try to put yourselves in your friend's shoes.If you were the one who is doing the blogging,Im sure you will want people to read what you have written down,it will make you feel as if your time posting was worth spending and you will look forward to your next post because you know that there are people who want to read it.

Therefore today,I am glad to announce the official launching of the 'Don't Just Visit,READ!' campaign.It is aim at encouraging other people who are visiting your blog to drop by and read whatever you has posted,whether it make sense or not,and not just to tag some stupid comments.I am sure your friend who is blogging will feel much better if they know someone,even if it is only one person,is continuously visiting their blog and reading it as well.So spread the message and if you would like to support my campaign,you have the permission to copy and paste this whole post on your blog.Just give my name a mention for the credit I deserve or I will sue you for copyright infrigement.Till then,keep coming to my blog and read it too!

'A Conversation With The Blogging God'

After a long break,I am finally back with a new interview.This time,I manage to catch up with a close friend of mine back when we were still in BNSS.Ive known him since Sec 1.He can be considered as someone who is very playful,talkative but he knows how to be serious when it is time to be serious.He is none other than Mr Syairazi.


Hi there Syairazi.Thanks for your time.I would start the conversation with the same question I ask everyone else and that is where are you now and what course are you taking?

I'm in Temasek Poly,taking Biomedical Science.YEA!

I notice that you have not been enjoying your lectures that much.Why is that so?

Well the lectures are just too fast or too boring and to make things worse,lecturers tend to make something simple so difficult.Their explanations are done with so much complication and it doesn't help when I dont even have the basics of that particular subject.

I see.No wonder.I also heard that you are the class chairperson? Is it true and how did the whole thing came about?

(Laughs) Of course it's true! I was chosen because of the leadership qualities that I have shown during the orientation.Actually,it wasn't really because of the leadership qualities,it is because of my enthusiasm that drives the class forward.

I'm sure we all know how much enthusiasm you have Syairaizi.Now,let's go back again to our BNSS time,is there anything that you miss about the school?

Well first of all,I would like to say that I really miss my dearest 5A classmates.The nonsense that we did together in class,playing and studying together,how I miss those times.Then of course,I miss a few teachers who have guided me throughout my time in BNSS as well.

Back then in the class,there was a lot of nicknames given to you like 'housefly' and more famously 'trashold' given by Miss Berlina Tan.Sometimes,I notice you really enjoy being call all this names,but I know deep down in your heart,you do not really like it.Am I right?

Nope,not at all.It's all mere teasing.Anyway,whether I was angry or not,it wouldn't going to stop them from calling me those names.I dont practically enjoy being nicknamed but I dun mind it either.I think somewhere down the road,maybe a few months or years from now,those nicknames are going to be the talking point and it's also something for them to remember about me.

Now if I remember correctly,there was an incident where you had your school pants torn apart when you was trying to jump on the back of Ivan,fortunately it happened after school hours when not many people were around.How did you feel at the moment?

Strangely though,I didn't feel 'paiseh' (*embarrased) (laughs) .I was only thinking "how am I going to get home with this torn pants?" I was truly greatful to Azlan for lending me his pants and I'm not going to forget it.

Looking back at the five years you have been in the school,what have you learn about yourself?

Well all I can say is that I was noisy,talkative,crazy,friendly and of course,irritating which is my hobby.I also realised that the guys like to matchmake me with other people (laughs) and I have no idea why.

I see.During the recent chalet outing,you did say that there was one point of time you felt like you was going to cry.Why so?

At that point of time,when I was sending Grace,Pauline and Alex off,I was thinking to myself that it might be my last time meeting them especially Grace and Pauine because Alex is still my schoolmate.The time spent with them were precious and truly unforgettable.

Understood.So what are your plans after Poly?

I want to do my Doctorade hopefully (laughs).And I want to fulfill my dream of becoming a doctor so I can give out free MCs to my 5A mates (laughs).

(Laughs) And finally,is there anything you wish to say to any of our former classmate who might be reading this now?

Yes.I want to thank each and every one of you from 5A.I definitely won't forget u guys.I hope we can all meet again in the future.The sooner it is,the better.But if it is later,then I hope to see each and everyone of you becoming successful already.I hope Wee Tiong and Yan Tong kick their paranoia attitude and I hope to see Grace grow taller (laughs) Sorry Gracie.I WISH EVERYONE GOOD LUCK IN WHATEVER THAT YOU DO!! And finally,I really wish I can meet all of you sooner so I can irritate you people bfore i turn 18 because I have to be matured already when I turn 18 right (laughs) .

I hope you will be successful as well and realise your dreams soon.Once again,thanks for your time and I wish you the best in your future endeavours.We have come to the end of my conversation with Syairazi.For more great interviews,remember to come to my blog again.Till next time,tata.

An Annoucement.

Listen up everyone,I have an announcement to make.From today onwards,I will suspend my chatbox for a temporary period of time and I am doing so because of the following reasons which I am going to explain further as you scroll down.

Firstly,I am the Blogging God,and that means I deserve some respect.Like I have said many times before,you might not like me,but you will respect me.Some of you have taken advantage of the freedom that I have been giving you for granted and hence you shall be punish for your sins.Secondly,I think the chatbox is a complete waste of time and distraction.I also think that it is truly unprofessional for me to have the chatbox if I want to move to the next level.The main purpose of the chatbox was for you to discuss the issues that I have posted and not for you to waste your time asking me crappy questions.I know some of you have done the appropriate things but most of you have not.So you have yourselves to blame.And finally,the most important point is that you have to realize who am I.I am not just a common blogger like you,I am the Blogging God and I can do whatever I want whenever I want whether you like it or not.In fact,I can even close down my blog and will still be the one and only Blogging God.

Therefore,I have decided to take this course of action and will only restore back the chatbox when I feel you deserve it.I will not be disrespected anymore by you or anyone else for that matter so goodbye.

Malaysia's petrol ban....

Now,you might have heard the news before yesterday or in today's newspaper but I am going to tell you about it anyway for the sake of you who have no idea what I am talking about.The Malaysian government announced yesterday that will ban people in foreign-registered vehicles from buying gasoline in border areas of Malaysia,where heavy subsidies have kept petroleum costs low despite soaring prices internationally.

In simpler terms,it means that if your parents are travelling to Malaysia,Johor Bahru in particular,they wont be able to fill up their petrol at the petrol stations anymore.The reason is because,the Malaysian government is trying to prevent foreigners from driving into Malaysia from Thailand and Singapore to fill up on cheap gasoline and diesel,which cost up to twice as much in the neighboring countries.They also added that the fuel subsidies, which were expected to cost the government 45 billion ringgit this year, "should actually be enjoyed by the lower-income group in the country" and not foreigners.

But worry not.This move is only temporary until they come up with better management of their subsidy system.It is reported that the ban could take effect as early as Friday at up to 300 stations within 30 miles of the borders with Thailand and Singapore which of course include Johor and other states such as Kedah and Perak.I dont have the statistics but I know that Singaporeans often make day trips across the causewayto fill their petrol tanks and buy groceries,which are cheaper there.To be honest,my family always does that and Im sure most of you have been doing the same thing too.

As you all know,the oil prices nowadays are very expensive but the Malaysian government has not raised retail gasoline,diesel or gas prices.Hence,you can understand the reason why it has decided to take this action to reduce the government's subsidies.The other course of action that they could have taken was to raise the gas prices but after the huge upset for the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) in the recent elections,I doubt that would be the best thing to do if they want to gain back the support.For the Singaporeans,of course there will be many people who will be very unhappy with this move because it means now that they will have to pay more to fill up their gas and they will think the move was unfair.But thinking again,I think we have no right to be angry or upset with the Malaysian government because it is their oil and they have the right to do anything they want with it.

On the other hand however,we can argue that we are paying for it so there is nothing wrong,its a win-win situation for both parties.It would be interesting to see what effect would it have on the Malaysian economy and its tourism sector,particularly from us Singaporeans.We always spend a lot of money when we go to JB and before we leave,we will fill our gas but with the ban in place now,I think that situation is going to change and most people would stop going to JB in the near future.I mean why waste your petrol going to such a place that is very far and at the end of the day,you have to pay more money to fill your gas tank,its not worth it I think.The oil prices wont go down anytime soon so I dont expect this ban to be lifted anytime soon either.And if you think you can do it unnotice,think again because enforcement officers will monitor gasoline stations and those found breaking the rule could be fined or face up to three years in jail.

Anyway,like I have said earlier,this move is only for temporary period of time.It could be a few months or maybe a few years I dont know.But if you still wish to fill in your gas tank in JB,then tomorrow would be the last day I think.I hope the ban wont be for too long so I can go to JB by car more often.

Why Monaco is still one of the best...

If you're an F1 fan,then you would find what I am going to say much easier to understand but if you're not an F1 fan,then I think you should not bother to read this post unless of course you have nothing better to do but to read it even though you don't have any idea what I am talking about.Anyway,I'm still going to move on to talk about yesterday Monaco Grand Prix.They say the Monaco GP is one of the most exciting race in every season and I completely agree.

I think I speak on behalf of all the F1 fans when I say Monaco is one of the GP that you always look forward to every season.I love it not only because it is one of the few street circuits of the season and its rich history,but because of the race that it gives us.Some people say it might be boring because the circuit is very narrow,and there is not much action,in terms of overtaking that can take place,but they are wrong and F1 is not just about overtaking but a mixture of other elements as well.It's also about who have the best strategy and the best driving skills and all these were put to the test in yesterday Grand Prix.The narrow circuit itself was already a huge test for the drivers but the rain made things much more difficult for them.Out of the 20 cars which started the race,only 14 finished the race.Among the casualties is Rosberg and Nelson Piquet Jr. The big names wasnt spared either with the likes of Raikkonen,Massa and Alonso making mistakes but they still managed to finish the entire race.The race winner,Hamilton was also involved in a slight incident but with some luck,he managed to recover it quickly and along with Massa mistake,he was able to win the race despite starting in 3rd position.

There was one particular driver that impressed me the most yesterday and that was Adrian Sutil of the Force India team.He started in 19th place but with some luck going to his side and some good driving too,he managed to get into the 4th spot in the closing stages of the race when something terrible happen.As the Safety Car was making one of its round after Rosberg crash,Raikkonen lost control of his F2008,crashing heavily into the back of Sutil,resulting in both drivers heading to the pits for repairs.Unlike Raikkonen though,Sutil was unable to continue in the race as the damage on his car was too severe and with that,ends his hope to register his first ever point of the season as well as his team.Understandably,he and his team was utterly devastated by that incident and the latest I heard was that the Force India team have asked the stewards to take a look at the incident as they felt Raikkonen was at fault.

There was a lot of dramas in the race yesterday,it was entertaining to watch.I think it is probably the best race of the season so far.Im speaking all these as a neutral of course,not as a Renault or Alonso fan because as you know,we have not been doing to well this season,which includes yesterday performance as well.I dont understand how can we have such a competitive car last time turning into such a terrible car this time.They really got to go and have a good look at the car once the season has ended.I have had high hopes before the season started,especially when Alonso was coming back but that hasnt been the case so far.I dont think Piquet is good enough,but I thought the same thing when Kovalainen when he join the team last season.Of course he have not been doing better at McLaren,but at least he got some points on the table unlike Piquet,but maybe its because of the car I don't know.

Anyway,the next race will be held in 2 weeks time which is the Canadian Grand Prix while there are still 2 street circuit GP left to go,one is in Valencia while the other,is of course none other than our own Singapore GP which I really cant wait.Hopefully,it can surpass Monaco by giving us a more entertaining race.Till then,drive safely.

Emo under attack in Mexico...

I dont know if you have heard this story before.It is about emos getting attack in Mexico.But before we move on any further,we need to know what exactly is an emo.The term itself is controversial because there are many definition of it but the emo I am talking about here refers to people who are associated with open displays of strong emotion.

According to the online dictionary,Wikipedia,the term has become so broad that it has become nearly impossible to describe what exactly qualifies as "emo".There is one common thing though that you will notice when you see an emo and that is their fashion styles.The term "emo" is sometimes stereotyped with tight jeans on males and females alike,long fringe brushed to one side of the face or over one or both eyes,dyed black,and straight hairtight t-shirts among other things and they like to hear moody music.Emo fashion has changed with time.I think by now,you have some idea of what emo is all about.Now moving on to my story earlier,emos in Mexico is now under attacked because a group of people,which includes urban tribes such as punks,metallers and cholos are deriding the emos for being posers who are overly sentimental and accuse them of robbing from other music genres.

With roots in Washington,D.C.,in the 1980s,emo bands play a style of rock that borrows much from punk and indie rock.They focus on exploring their emotions with a particular dwelling on typical teenage depression.Most of all,however,the assailants target the emos for dressing effeminately,still a provocative act for many in a macho Mexico.The emos make a soft target for the aggressors.The vast majority are teenagers,often just 15 or 16 years old.It seems like the entire country is against emos.You can see their hatred on the internet in blogs and forums,some fill with death threats.The emos there are saying that it is getting dangerous for them to go out.They get shouted at and spat on and people are throwing things at them.While the city officials are calling for tolerance,many of the perpetrators appeared unrepentant,posting cell phone videos of the violence on the Internet alongside celebratory messages such as "Hey emos. If you are so depressed than kill yourselves," it said alongside one video.

Now before I move on any further,I would like to make myself clear,that I do not endorse or condemn the emos.My purpose of posting this article is just to inform you more on what is happening to the emos in another country and not to support or encourage the same actions to be repeated here.My view on this issue is that what the anti-emos are doing is totally unacceptable.They might not like them but it doesnt mean they are able to do anything they want to get rid of them.I believe Mexico is a democratic country and hence,any group of people should be able to practise what they want regardless what they stand for.I have seen a video of the bashing up,and it is really scary.Hundreds of anti-emos attacking a trio of emos.This shouldnt be happening at all and when there is death threats involve,it has become a serious matter.

The government has to step in and do something about the current situation before someone could really get kill.I dont exactly know what emos actually stand for because Im not one and I dont think they will pose any danger or threats to the majority so I dont see any reason why these Mexicans are beating the hell up of emos and hating them for no reason whatsoever.Its not a question of who is an emo or who is not.I just hope the problem will be solve as soon as possible and that both the emos and anti-emos are able to live peacefully side by side together,though I doubt it will happen anytime soon.

If you would like to see a video of an anti-emo riot,you may go to this link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kcYt-AYRXg

*The report was taken from TIME & Wikipedia.

Sharks swim closer to extinction...

A new study about sharks is showing a worrying trend.It is being reported that more than half of the world's ocean-going sharks are at risk of extinction.Specialists with the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) found that 11 species are on the high-risk list,with five more showing signs of decline.

Sharks are particularly affected by over-fishing as they reproduce slowly.The scientists are calling for global catch limits,an end to the practice of removing fins,and measures to minimise incidental catches.The IUCN Shark Specialist Group (SSG) assessed data on the 21 species of sharks and their close cousins,the rays,that swim in upper portions of the open ocean where they are exposed to fishing fleets.Of the 21,one - the giant devilray - is assessed as Endangered,and 10 are Vulnerable.A further five are listed as Near Threatened,which means the signs of decline are not serious enough yet to merit a full listing.

The main threat to sharks is fishing,both accidental and targeted.And one of the main reason for this is because as East Asian economies boom,conservation groups say the market for fins is increasing.Many big shark species have fallen prey to booming Asian economies where shark-fin soup is prized as a must-have delicacy at weddings and other banquet occasions.The fins are often sliced off of living fish which are then discarded in the sea.Currently,there are no international catch limits for oceanic sharks,but with sufficient public support and resulting political will,we can turn the tide according to the SSG.

This news was particularly interesting to me because I am a huge fan of shark-fin soup.The first time I taste it,I love it so much that I cant stop buying it whenever I am eating outside.There is no doubt that it is expensive,but it was worth it.Recently though,I have been trying to curb my desire to eat it and if possible,stop eating it at all.You can see the reason why in this report.Sharks are getting extinct.We all know that sharks is a deadly animal,but it is one of the most beautiful creatures in the ocean and I dont want to see it go extinct.I am a huge animal lover and whenever I hear stories like this,I feel regret and sometimes,I feel I am contributing to its extinction.I am going to try to stop buying shark-fin soup but I think it would be even better if a new law is introduce to limit the catch for oceanic sharks.I completely agree with the SSG when they say we need sufficient public support and political will to try to solve the problem and it can only happen if everyone can work together.

So the next time you are thinking about having a shark-fin soup,remember,you are contributing to the extinction of the sharks as well.If you stop the buying,the killing will stop as well.And at the same time,you can save your money because its not cheap.So spread the message and support the movement.It's not too late to save the sharks.

*The report was taken from BBC & AFP.

David Cook is the new 'Americal Idol'...

I'm sure by now,most of you people would have probably know that David Cook has won the 'American Idol' after he defeated David Archuleta in yesterday's finals.It was a battle between the two Davids but at the end of the day,it was the older David who came out on top.The final show was so great that new record was made.

In America,it was estimated that 31.7 million viewers watch the show on Fox channel,a million more viewers that last year's showdown between Jordin Sparks and Blake Lewis.There was also a record number of votes cast of 97.5 million.David Cook won the competition by a margin of 12 million votes.Both of them have never been in the bottom 3 before so you might say they were both a deserved finalist.I think after the final performance show,David Archuleta was the favourite to win with one of the judge Simon Cowell giving his thumbs up mostly to him and declaring he had scored a 'knockout' over Cook,while he had some criticism for Cook.Funnily though.during the result show,he apologised to Cook for some of his criticism and he said that 'it wasnt as clear-cut as we called it'.Was it because he knew the result already or was it because of a genuine mistake,I have no idea,but I think its the latter.So what was the reason for Cook's win?

One possible reason for his victory could be because of show's recent ratings: Viewership for teenagers 12-to-17 for "Idol" was down this season,and the median age of an "Idol" viewer,once in the mid-30s, is now up to 42, according to Nielsen Media Research.Another reason could be that Cook was so genuinely humble,and not as quiet or obsequious as Archuleta throughout the competition,even until the very end.On Wednesday,he told reporters it was an honor to share the stage with the teenage singer.Cook said Archuleta had more talent at 17 "than I know what to do with at 25." I'm not saying that Archuleta is not as geuninely humble as Cook but this is how the article is being reported as.After his win,Cook told reporters backstage that he came into this competition without any expectations,and he is going out of it without any expectations either.

And so another fantastic season of 'American Idol' is finally over.I think this year,we had a lot of fantastic talents,probably the best ever in the show.Well,they will say that for every season.I can guarentee you that you will hear the same thing next season.But forget about that,David Cook is the winner.Im an Archuleta fan,of course Im disappointed but again Cook is a great singer,maybe he deserve to win.It's funny to see him winning because joining the competition wasnt initially his idea.It was his brother's.Both of them have been fantastic throughout the season but I think David Cook performance in the finals was not that good especially in the second and third song.If only he sang the second and third song in a different sequence,that would sound better,but hey he is still the winner nevertheless.Archuleta was great as ever especially his last song.I know he have sang it before in the show but I will never get bored listening him singing the same song over and over again.

I think the average age of the viewers of the show had a huge role in making David Cook as the winner.I think those who voted for Archuleta would be those teenagers while Cook had a greater support from the older group of people.But anyway,I think Archuleta will be producing a music album of his own as well,that has always been the tradition of the show,and if he does that I will probably buy it.This season has been great but you might want to know that the viewership has been sliding over the past few months or so (not including the finals). I dont know what is the reason for that decline but I think people are bored watching the same thing happening over and over again.They have made some changes this season though with the viewers being able to call in and interact with the contestants or the judges and the contestants was allowed to use musical instruments of their choice when performing.Hopefully,there will be some changes for next season to freshen things up a bit.

Once again,I would like to say congratulation to David Cook,he will achieve big things Im sure.Ryan Seacrest,the host has said that they will be doing it all over again in January.So till then,take care and see you next season.My Wednesday and Thursday night will be boring now.

*The report was taken from Associated Press

Inconsiderate neighbours....

I had a bad start today mainly because I had an annoying wake up call.I usually depend on my alarm clock to wake me up in the morning but today was a different matter.I had the sounds of loud horn from a motorcycle to wake me up.Let me tell you what actually happen.

Yesterday,I went to sleep at 12 am and then I woke up a 3 to watch the Champions League final between Manchester United & Chelsea in which I hope it would end early so that I can go back to sleep earlier,but it went all the way to the penalty shoot out which ended at around 5.30am.I then performed my morning prayer and went back to sleep.I plan to wake up at 8am to watch the live telecast of the American Idol finals but I only managed to get an hour of sleep.At 6.30am,I was awake by the sounds of the horn coming from one of the motorcycle at the carpark below.I thought it would end soon but it kept going on and on I was so angry I took a look down and see what was happening.It turns out that the owner of the motorcycle kept horning because there was a car parked right in front of it,making him unable to move his motorcycle away.Now that car wasnt suppose to be there because there was not a parking area.I guess he did it because the carpark was already full but still,he cant do what he did,by parking in front of the motorcycle and blocking its path

So the motorcycle owner kept pressing the horn on and on,for about 5 to 10 mins and it was at 6.30 am when most of the people are still trying to get some sleep.It turns out I was not the only one angered by his actions.I heard some people shouting 'OI!' as well.The car owner didnt came down however but thankfully,a kind soul came down and help the motorcyclist to steer away his motorbike very carefully.There was a small gap between the car and the motorcycle and he was able to move it if he was careful.His wife was there too.Why does he need to act in such an inconsiderate manner by continuously pressing his horn over and over again.I know he is angry and he was trying to call out the car owner,but how about the other residents.In this case,both the motorcyclist and the car driver are irresponsible.When I came to look down again half an hour later,the car was gone.I think what the car driver did was totally irresponsible.If you cant find a parking space,dont block the path of the motorcycles and the motorcyclist was inconsiderate for disturbing the sleep and peacefulness of the neighbourhood so early in the morning.If no one had came down to help,I think he would still be pressing his horn now.

I hope that such matter wont be repeated again or I am going to complain to the GRC.As a result,I only got 4 hours of sleep yesterday but thank god I am not schooling now so I have all the time in the world to get the sleep I need.I would like to know if you have ever encountered such incident or other kind of incidents involving inconsiderate neighbours.Do tell me.

Ever wanted to travel around Singapore just by one route?

Well,you will be able to do just that in the future.You will soon be able to stroll, jog or cycle around the whole of Singapore just by following an extensive route. The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) is developing a 150-kilometre round-island path as part of its Leisure Plan.The details of the plan was revealed yesterday National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan.

The round-island route will be developed over the next 10 to 15 years,but up to two-thirds of the path could be ready in just five years. At three and a half times the length of the Pan-Island Expressway (PIE),the route will comprise existing and new park connectors,waterfront promenades and other trails.It will also cover leisure destinations at the Marina Bay,Changi Point and the upcoming Jurong Lake District.It will cover places like the farms in Lim Chu Kang and if youre an adventurer,you may do some trekking near Kranji.You can also look forward to more quiet retreats,which will be made available with 900 hectares of new green spaces,including the new Gardens by the Bay and the Diary Farm Nature Park. ( See picture for the map)

When I first heard this news yesterday,I was very happy because I love to travel around Singapore but it has always been very difficult for me because I always have to take different bus and trains to go from one place to another but with this route,I can travel around the entire country just by following one route! Not only that,you will also be able to visit beautiful places like the farms in Lim Chu Kang and the upcoming Gardens by the Bay which I am really excited about.If you think it is going to be a boring journey,you are wrong because you will be amaze by some of the things that our country has to offer.Places that you have never been or you have never thought you would have gone before.I dont know how long will the entire journey takes if you don't plan to stop for sight seeing,but Im sure its going to take a while especially if you want to complete it all in one day just by walking or jogging.So I would suggest the best way if you are planning to complete the journey in one full day,take the bike instead.

I have walked long distances before in Singapore,from Bedok Reservoir to my home at Jalan Damai,as well as from Parkway Parade to my home.I dont care if you want to believe me or not but that is the truth.No doubt it is tiring but it was fulfilling nevertheless.The journey I took from Parkway Parade back to my home took me about 1 hour to complete whereas if you take the cab or the bus,its about 20 mins away,so I dont think I will able to complete the entire journey in one day.Nevertheless,Im still looking forward to it and if any of you want to join me,you know what to do.

Till next time,stay healthy and continue to exercise.

*The report was taken from ChannelNewsAsia

Bicycles to be allowed on trains & buses....

If you're a bicycle lover or usually travels around with a bicycle,then Im sure you will be very happy to hear this news.Unfortunately though,it is only part of a 6-month trial and when I say bicycles,it only applies to foldable bicycles.

This is an initiative by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) in a study to meet the transport needs of diverse groups of people.The trial period is from May 24 to November 24 this year.There is a specific time limit too in particular during the weekdays.Foldable bicycles will be allowed on MRT trains every weekday during off-peak hours and on SBS and SMRT buses on weekends and public holidays.I think what they are trying to say here that you are not allowed to bring your foldable bicycles onto the MRT trains during peak hours and you are not allowed bring it at all on weekends and public holidays if you are travelling by train.Although the move gives cyclists more convenience,a LTA spokesman said in a press conference that public safety must still come first.During the trial,public transport staff can stop a cyclist from boarding a bus or train if the cyclist is unable to comply with given guidelines.The LTA and operators will monitor and review the initiative after the trial period.

I dont ride a bicycle nor do I have one so I dont think this move will affect me much.I'm glad that they are restricting it to foldable bicycles only because I think it would be a huge inconvenient for the riders as well as the other commuters if the non-foldable bicycles are also allowed to be brought into the trains or the buses as well.I think the cyclist will be the one who benefit the most from this move,considering if they have foldable bikes as it would make their journey much more easier.Nevertheless,I think it would be troublesome for them to keep folding and unfolding their bikes each time they want to board the bus or the train.My main concern as a commuter is whether the bike will block the passage and make it difficult for other passengers to board or drop off from the bus.I know its foldable but still,most of the bicycles are very big and this could cause some problem.6 months is a reasonable period I think so lets see how it goes.

As usual,I would love to listen if you have any comment on this issue.If not,just keep quiet.

*This report was taken from ChannelNewsAsia.

'A Conversation With The Blogging God'

I'm back again today with another round of 'A Conversation With The Blogging God'.This time,I manage to catch up with someone,who is very sporty,adventurous according to her and someone who like to have a good fun.And today is also her birthday as well,thats why I have decided to post it today.She is none other than Miss Grace Lin


Hi Grace.It has been a long time since I have heard from you.So what are you doing now? I mean where are you schooling now?

I am doing fine and I am currently schooling in Republic Poly.The course that I am taking is the Outdoor and Adventure learning.Yes,sports is my type of thing.

That is nice to hear.So how are you enjoying your new school? Made any new friends?

Yeah definitely.The friends here are great and I always have an enjoyable time with them.

I have heard somewhere that you do not really enjoy talking about blood.Is it true and if so,why?

(Laughs) It's from my blog! Well for that,it is because it is a science-related course and I am not the kind of person who like science a lot so that should explain why.

(Laughs) You are right.So how would you compare life in Poly with life in secondary school then.Is there a huge difference or most of the things are pretty much the same?

Well,each place has their own pros and cons.For poly,life here is much relaxing but the politics are not desirable at all.Meanwhile for secondary school life,it is much more of a routine kind of life and everything is just there for you but the people in secondary school are more united.

I see.So have you been missing anything since you last left BNSS?

Absolutely! For me,it is the class that I miss the most and it is definitely none other than 5A.The class that have been bonded so well and also the life there in BNSS (Smiles).

I couldn't agree with you more.Now,if I remember correctly back in BNSS,certain students used to call you names in particular 'shorty' because of your height.Did it hurt your feelings and are you still angry with those people or do you think they was simply having fun and there was no harm intended?

(Laughs) No,it didn't hurt my feelings at all because I know they are simply having fun (Smiles) I don't mind at all,actually.After all,no ill-feelings intended (Smiles) .

It's good to hear that.Moving on,it's no secret that you enjoy playing badminton very much.What is it about the sport that you enjoy the most?

To me,badminton is not just only a sport but also a strategic game which allows me to think before I do anything.Basically to me,life's like a game of badminton.It's how we control the game and how we want this game to be interesting and enriching.Just like life,we control our lives,not leaving to others to control them and obviously,we want our lives to be interesting.I always tell my peers,life is not about winning but it's about the process that we are learning (Smiles).

That's a nice way to put it across.I know that recently,you met up with some of the girls like Cheryl and Pei Shan and the last time you saw them was probably during the chalet outing.Did you had a good time during the chalet outing and are you hoping that someday in the future,such event can be organise again?

Definitely,that was one of the best chalet I have ever been.Though not everyone was there,I still enjoyed every moment I spent there just like how I used to enjoy every moment we had in the class.Of course,like any other friends in 5A,I do hope that something similar could be organise again.I'll be glad to have 5A to be reunited again.

And what are your plans for the future?

I hope to complete my course here in Poly and then get a job in Outward Bounds while working.I would then hope to take a private diploma in psychology before go to the University to further my studies.


Like usual,I will ask the same question at the end of the interview.Do you have anything to say to any of our former classmate that might be reading this right now?

Life's like this : We have to move on with life someday and what's left of us are the beautiful memories that have been etched in our hearts forever (Smiles). To all 5A students,you know how much you have made a great impact on my life and for as long as I am here,I will never forget every single one of you (Smiles) Love.

We will not forget you as well Grace and we love you too.I wish you the best in your future endeavours and before I leave,I would like to wish a Happy Birthday once again.Till next time,see ya.

Obama's victory moves him closer to nomination...

The state of Kentucky and Oregon went to the polls today to decide the Democratic nominee for the general election between Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. Hillary Clinton.Clinton won by a huge margin in Kentucky while Obama took Oregon.Nevertheless,despite Hillary Clinton's landslide victory in Kentucky,Barack Obama has won a majority of pledged delegates in the race for the Democratic nomination.

Clinton won Kentucky by more than 30 points,but Obama's share of the state's 51 delegates was enough put him over the threshold,according to the latest estimate.Obama is expected to pick up at least 14 delegates in Kentucky,which according to estimation,will then give him 1,627 of the 3,253 pledged delegates at stake in all of primaries and caucuses.In addition to that,by winning Oregon,it means that Obama will get the larger share of the state's 52 delegates.The amount of pledged delegates is ever more important now that Neither candidate is expected to reach the 2,026 delegates needed to win the Democratic nomination.That means the race is likely to be settled by "superdelegates" which are represented by party leaders and officials who will cast votes at the Democratic convention in August.Therefore,if you have more number of pledged delegates,it will help your chances of getting the vote from the superdelegates.I know its kind of complicated but that is how American politics are.

After today's result,Hillary Clinton is still trailing Barack Obama on the number of both pledged and superdelegates.While her chances of winning the nomination is slipping up,Barack Obama meanwhile is getting closer in clinching the nomination.Nevertheless,Clinton has said that she has not plans to quit the race until one of them become the nominee.Barack Obama is already acting like he is the nominee,focusing his speeches more on Republican nominee John McCain and it has emerged today that he is quietly planning a multistate team for the general elections.Top Obama organizer Paul Tewes is in discussions to run the party,several Democratic officials said Tuesday but Obama spokesman has said that those report is not true and it is premature to make such decision as he is yet to clinch the nomination.Now,that really show how much he thinks he is really going to be the nominee and you cant actually blame him for doing that.

Like I have said many and many times before,it is only a matter of time before Obama wins the nomination.And looking at the current situation,there is no doubt that it looks more likely that Obama will win it,so you cant blame him for acting like he has already won it.All this talk of choosing who to become the VP and assembling a general election team is all premature of course,but I think in his mind,Obama has already thought of who he would like to have in his team.It's always good to plan ahead.Today's victory in Oregon,albeit an expected one,was still a sweet one.Sen. Clinton have every right to stay in the race as long as the possibility of her becoming the nominee is still there but I do hope that she will quit for her party's as well as Obama chances of winning the general election later.She have run a great campaign,there's no question about that,but unfortunately,he hopes are fading off and it's about time she steps down.Even if Florida and Michigan was being place back into contention which is what she is asking for,she would still have a huge mountain to climb.

Anyway,the next Democratic primary will be held next Tuesday in Idaho.Till next time,take care and keep tuning in to CNN for the latest development in the U.S. Presidential race.

*The report was taken from CNN & Associated Press

More trains added,Will it ease the problem?

SMRT has announced recently that it is increasing the number of train trips by at least 700 train a week to cut commuter's waiting time and provide us with a more comfortable ride.A common complaint by MRT passengers is that it gets very crowded at peak periods and on many occasions,commuters are not able to get on the train.

That is no suprise considering we are living in Singapore and MRT is probably the fastest way to travel from one place to another if you are considering taking the public transport apart from the cabs of course.SMRT has actually increased the number of train trips by adding 83 more train trips per week back in February but they are now introducing even more trips.More than 50 per cent of these will be during weekday lunch times (noon-2pm),when waiting time will be halved to just three-and-a-half minutes,according t SMRT.Improvements are also expected for those who go home later after work and those who go out on Friday evenings.SMRT said they are already operating at the best intervals of two minutes at the peak within peak and cannot improve this any further,for now.In a month's time,SMRT plans to increase frequency on weekends,for those travelling to and from town and the suburban areas.

I think this is a good action by SMRT.I dont normally take the train during the peak hours,but it doesnt take a stupid person to know that the peak hours are always the time when the train will be totally pack.I dont know if adding more trains during the weekday lunch times is a good idea because as far as Im concern,that is probably the only time when the trains are not that crowded.I think it is maybe because people are taking the trains to go to another place to have their lunch and therefore,if they can take the trains faster,they can have their lunch quickly and get back to work on time.I also think that the new waiting time is reasonable,three-and-a-half minutes as compared to six or 5 minutes.Less waiting time means less people waiting and that also means that less people will be able to board the train each time.I hope this will ease the problem of overcrowding.

It is also good to hear that SMRT is planning to increase the frequency on weekends,for those travelling to and from town and surburban areas.As you probably know,the train will also be very crowded during the weekends especially when you are travelling to and from town.I hate it when I have to squeeze around,so maybe the new plan will help to ease the human congestion and it will make me look forward more when I am planning to head to the town.I dont mind standing in the train for a long time,but being squeeze around and trying to squeeze yourselves out of the train in time can be pretty annoying.I also hope that the train commuters will have some consideration and move to the free space instead of just cramping up at the exit door.I have seen people not moving in when there is clearly a lot of free space and this is unacceptable.You are only making it difficult for the people to get on the train.

The additional train trips are expected to cost SMRT an additional S$5 million yearly.There have been some commuters who are afraid that with the increase in the number of train trips,there will also be an increase in the cost of fares.SMRT has not commented on this issue however.I dont mind an increase in the fares,but not too much.Anyway here is a video I would like to show you if you think our train problems is the worst. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbyJbtOpIU4


*The report was taken from ChannelNewsAsia.

Making you look like a fool....

I would like to ask you a question.How many time have you been forced to look like a fool at the public foodcourt (coffeeshop not included) ? Im referring to situation when you are trying to find a seat but you have to wait and stand at one corner while watching other people to finish eating before you can get your seat. Doesn't that make you look like a fool?

Now,I know that the people who came before us and already got a seat have no obligations whatsoever to finish eating as quickly as they can so that the people who are waiting to find a seat will not have to wait any longer.Therefore,they should not be blame.But again,having to wait and stand while watching other people eating can be embarrasing.It has happen to me many times and Im sure it has happen to you as well.

So what I am proposing is for the foodcourt to install a system where it is able to tell how many people are there actually eating in the foodcourt so that those who has just came in to eat are able to see whether there are available seats and that they do not have to stand around like a fool while waiting and watching other people to finish eating.It is the same kind of system you see on a double decker bus.If such system is being implemented,then I wouldnt have to worry about having to look like a fool the next time I eat at a foodcourt.

Malaysia's Mahathir quits ruling party...

I don't know if you have heard the news yesterday about former Malaysian premier Mahathir Mohamad quitting the ruling UMNO party in protest over the leadership of his successor Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.This was announced by his son adding that Mahathir announced his departure during a speech Monday in Alor Star,the capital of his home state Kedah.

Now Mahathir is no stranger to the country of Prime Minister Abdullah himself.He ruled Malaysia and the dominant United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) for 22 years until 2003 when he handed over to Abdullah,his hand-picked successor.However in recent times he has been a vocal critic of Abdullah's administration and since disastrous March general elections,which produced UMNO's worst ever results,has actively campaigned for him to step down.Prime Minister Abdullah of course have said over and over again that he has no plans to step down,even after Mahathir quit the party.It now looks like Mahathir will not be the only one qutting the party.In fact,he was quoted as urging all UMNO ministers and party leaders to follow him by quitting the party,and return only when Abdullah has departed.

When I first heard the news yesterday,I was not entirely shocked but I didnt saw it coming.With a reputation that Mahathir has,it wasn't that surprising to hear his decision to quit UMNO but I wonder whether his decision to quit will only do more harm than good for Prime Minister Abdullah and the UMNO party as well.We all know that many Malaysians have already lost their trust and confidence in UMNO,judging by the recent general elections and I dont know if Mahathir's actions will help to restore the lost confidence.I dont know who to blame for the current situation.Is Mahathir at fault for being the one who hand-picked Abdullah as his successor or do we put the blame on PM Abdullah for his weak leadership.I think its time for Mahathir to stop interfering in PM Abdullah business and let him do his job peacefully.It will only add more pressure on Abdullah if he continue to ask Abdullah to step down,which is highly doubtful.

Mahathir is a hugely influential figure in the country and in the party as well,so I expect more party members to follow his action to quit UMNO.If there are too many of them,then I guess PM Abdullah has no other choice but to step down because he have not only lost the faith and confidence of the Malaysian people but also the people in his party as well and you cant do much if that happen.Currently the situation in Malaysia is a truly divided one.I dont really know if Malaysia has change much since PM Abdullah took over but you cant really compare it with Mahathir's record because it has only been about 5 years or something and the situation now is much tougher.At the same time,I feel sorry for PM Abdullah.I don't think he is a bad leader but I think its because he has not been able to deliver much progress as quickly as the people want to see it happening.The people in UMNO should be unified and not divided if they want to rise again.If they are divided,it will only work in the way of the opposition parties.

Im no expert but that is how I think of the current situation.I doubt Mahathir will come out and apologise for asking Abdullah to step down or join back UMNO if PM Abdullah is still in power for the next few months or even years.Its a battle between Mahathir and Abdullah,the teacher and the student,and it will be interesting to see who will come out on top.

*The report was taken from AFP.

Champions once again!

No,Im not talking about Manchester United winning the Premier League.I am talking about my second favourite club,Inter Milan winning the Serie A for the third consecutive time,the first ever in the history of the club and it also mean that we have won it for 16 times now.It wasn't an easy feat,we had to wait till the final game of the season to finally win it,because Roma was giving us a close fight.Actually,to be honest,we should have won it long time ago if it wasnt for some sloppy performance,but it is history now.

We defeated Parma in the final game of the season by 2 goals to nil and at the same time,send Parma down to the second division.Zlatan Ibrahimovic was the real hero of the day,as he came on from the bench to score both goals.It was a great result.Ive been waiting for quite some time to see it happen again.I watch the previous 2 matches on Channel 5,in which I had hope we could close the season and win the title,but we didnt.I wanted to catch the last game of the season as well because it would determine whether we are going to be champions once again but unfortunately,Channel 5 prefer to show other matches instead which was disappointing.Anyway,the main thing for me is that we win the league once again,we have never won it three times in a row,so that is a great achievement.I think we fully deserve it.Apart from the Champions League exit,I think we had a great season.

The question that still remain now is whether manager Roberto Mancini will be leaving us next season.There has been some reports recently that he will leave us and go to Chelsea next season but Inter's club president has said that Mancini will stay.If you can remember some time ago after our exit from the Champions League,Mancini had said that he would step down at the end of the season following our Champions League exit at the hands of Liverpool in March,only to retract his statement the next day.The latest news I heard is that Mancini and Moratti,the club's president will have a showdown talk soon,so I expect his future will be decided by then.For me,I hope that he stays because he has done a great job but at the same time if he leaves,I will not be too disappointed.I think he has done everything he could with us,but it is time to move to another level which is winning the Champions League.I don't know if he is the right guy,but I certainly hope so.

But that is a worry for the next season.I would expect him to announce his final decision over the next few months or so and if he leaves,it would be interesting to see who would replace him.The season is not officially over yet.We have still one more cup to fight for which is the Tim Cup final against Roma.It should be a great match.Roma would feel very disappointed having missing out of the Scuddeto,so they will want to win this one.For now,let us rejoice and celebrate on our achievement. FORZA INTER!