Man auctions off his life,sale price disappoints...

A man who put his life up for auction on eBay found it wasn't worth quite as much as he thought when he settled for around A$100,000 ($96,000) less than his target price. Ian Usher, 44, held the seven-day auction of all his belongings, including his three-bedroom home in the west Australian city of Perth and a trial for his job at a rug store, after the break-up of his five-year marriage.

Bids had reached as high as A$2.2 million, only for Usher to discover there had been a glitch on eBay's system which allowed the participation of non-registered bidders who had put in bogus offers. In the end, the winning bidder agreed to pay A$399,300 ($380,286) for all of Usher's worldly goods, which also include his friends, a motorcycle and a jetski. According to the eBay website, the mystery buyer, whose user name is "mslmcc," is in Australia and has a 100 percent feedback score. Usher, who gave regular updates on the auction on his Web site www.alife4sale.com, now plans to travel in search of a new life. He's not the first person to put his life on the block. American John Freyer started All My Life For Sale in 2001 and sold everything he owned on eBay, later visiting the people who bought his things. Adam Burtle, a 20-year-old U.S. university student, offered his soul for sale on eBay in 2001, with bidding hitting $400 before eBay called it off, saying there had to be something tangible to sell. Burtle later admitted he was a bored geek. [End of report]

I dont know what should I call his act as. Dumb, stupid, smart I have no idea. However, I feel sorry for the man. Just as he thought he is going to be a millionaire, it turns out he will only get about $400,000. I can understand why he wants to sell everything, which includes his motorbike, jet-ski, surfboards, sky-diving kit, spa among others and he certainly sounds like a very rich man, Im not sure about that. However, what I find amusing about it is that he wants to sell his friends too on eBay. I am wondering how is he going to do that. I went to his website and he said that the reason he has decided to sell his 'life' is because he was "blindsided" by his wife recently and everything in the house reminds him of the past. He has decided that now would be the right time to move on with his life and that is why he has decided to sell everything. I don't know why anyone would want to bid for something that have been use by someone else before but I guess the buyer is a rich man. I might just follow Ian steps one day and sell everything on eBay if my life ends up like him. I can get as much money as I want and start afresh. He might not be a millionaire yet, but I think $400,000 should be enough for him to do whatever he wants. He is living alone, so he shouldn't need a lot of money. He could like start a business and make even more money for himself.

It has become more common to see someone auctioning their life for sale on the Internet nowadays. I think these people feels like they have no use living anymore but rather than committing suicide, I think it is much better to auction their life. If you are lucky, you will get a lot of money. So there you go. If you feel depress or if you think your life is meaningless, try auctioning it on the Internet and who knows it might change your life in a bigger and better way.


*The report was taken from REUTERS.

The end of another great tournament...

And in the end, it was Spain who came out victorious. That was how the UEFA EURO 2008 ended last Sunday. The finals saw Spain going up against Germany and it only needed just one goal to separate the two teams. Fernando Torres scored the only goal of the game on 33 minutes and that was enough to give him and Spain the victory they much deserved. The win also means that Spain have ended their 44-year wait for international glory.

Despite having only one goal in the game, it was an entertaining match to watch with both team creating some good chances at both ends but there is only one room for the winner in football and it was Spain's night. Looking back at the tournament, I have got to say that they deserve it more than the Germans. In the group stage, they were impressive, picking up maximum points. They then went on to defeat Italy in the quarter-final by a penalty shoot-out and then defeating Russia once again in a convincing manner at the semis. Germany didnt do too badly either. They only lost once in the group stage which was against Croatia but they manage to bounce back in the quarter-final against Group A leader, Portugal and then of course beating Turkey in that entertaining semi-final match. Everything is over now. I don't really care who was going to be the winner yesterday because I dont like both team so it is completely irrelevant to me whichever team wins. But because of my personal differences with some of my friends who are supporting Germany, I was rooting for Spain to win and I believe they were going to win, so I am happy in some way.

Overall I think it has been a very good and successful tournament apart from watching Italy going out of course. I give it 10/10 for its entertainment value. There has been a lot of surprises, great goals, great saves, great football, everything that you want to see in a football tournament and it has certainly not disappoint. I dont know if I am going to miss waking up early in the morning anymore, maybe I will but it also mean that I can now sleep peacefully. It's been a while since I last manage to do that. I am going to miss the tournament for sure so I can't wait for the next one to start in 4 years time but before that, we will have the World Cup of course in 2010. That should be another great tournament to watch, afterall Italy is the defending champion. As for what is coming soon, its going to be the 2008/09 Barclays Premier League of course which will start in mid-August. But right now, I am going to share some of my favourite moments of EURO 2008.

Save of the tournament: Buffon penalty save against Romania. Not because I am bias but it was a great save and an important one too.

Goalkeeper of the tournament: Iker Casillas. I hate him for saving the penalties against Italy in the quater-final, but still, he has been one of the main reason why Spain won the tournament.

Match of the tournament: I have to say the semi final match between Germany and Turkey. It was end to end stuff but it was unfortunate that Germany got that late late goal. Still, it was very entertaining.

Comeback of the tournament: I definitely have to say the match between Turkey and Czech. I honestly thought that it would be over for the Turks, but they was brilliant in the comeback.

Flop of the tournament: France. They was just poor in the group stage. They only manage to get 1 points in the group stage which was against Romania and finished last. But with the Netherlands and Italy in the group as well, you cant blame them.

Manager of the tournament: Guus Hiddink. Everyone knows what a great coach and tactician he is and he has prove it once again in the tournament guiding Russia to the semis and beating the Dutch in the quarter-finals on the way. He is just brilliant.

Goal of the tournament: Tough one. There are so many great goals to choose from but I have to say Nihat's goal against Czech. Ibrahimovic goal was nice too against Greece.

Fans of the tournament: It has to be the Dutch. The stadium will always be filled with the orange colour when the Dutch are playing and I love their makeups and their orange hairs.

Player of the tournament: Andrei Arshavin. When he was suspended, Russia didnt look very convincing going forward but when he came back, Russia look like a completely different team. He was one of the reason why Russia made it to the semis, but against Spain, he didnt play very well.

That's about it from me. I thoroughly enjoyed the tournament. Congratulation to Spain once again. They deserve it. They beat the world champs afterall so they must be good but not necessarily better. And it was a good way for their coach Aragones to leave as well. He will be managing Turkish club Fenerbahce next season so all the best of luck to him. See you guys again at the next Euro championship!

What's happening at Wimbledon?

©Getty Images / I. Walton

If you have been following this year's Wimbledon, you might probably know that there have been a few shocking results happening, but nothing was more surprising than yesterday when the women Number 1 seed, and my favourite player, Ana Ivanovic crashing out of the tournament and it has only been the 3rd Round. The newly crowned French Open champion was unceremoniously dumped out by China's Jie Zheng 6-1, 6-4 joining the likes of the Number 3 seed, Maria Sharapova who had been eliminated in the previous round by an unknown Russian who has only played in the tournament once.

Other big names who has also been eliminated is Daniela Hantuchova, the Number 10 seed and Vera Zvonareva, the Number 13 seed, both losing out in the 2nd Round by unseeded players. In the men's draw, things are pretty much the same too with Novak Djokovic, the Number 3 seed being the highest seeded player to lose out in the tournament so far after being defeated by former world number one, Marat Safin who is unseeded. Other big names casualties includes Nikolay Davydenko, James Blake, Andy Roddick and David Ferrer as of yesterday. It has certainly been a tournament with many surprising results but Im going to focus my post on Ana Ivanovic lost yesterday. She did well in the previous Grand Slam which was the Roland Garros but she didnt play very well coming into Wimbledon. It wasnt just yesterday's performance but the previous two round as well in which she rode her luck to get into the 3rd Round but unfortunately, her luck had ran out. It isn't that often for you to hear the Number 1 seed and the Number 1 player in the world losing out to someone who is unseeded and ranked 133 in the world in a Grand Slam. However, Zheng clearly deserved the win yesterday, she played some fantastic tennis while Ivanovic was uninspiring and made a lot of unforced errors.

When asked about her defeat, Ivanovic blamed the pressures of winning her first Grand Slam title at Roland Garros this month and becoming world number one. She also said she found the gusty conditions on No.1 Court even more of a problem. As her fan, I was really hoping she could make it all the way to another Grand Slam final but it was never meant to be. Maybe she was tired after the recently ended Roland Garros but I think all professionals should know how to cope with it. I am even more disappointed that I will not be able to watch her or Sharapova in the finals. The highest seeded women player left in the tournament in Jelena Jankovic, the world number two so she would be the favourite to win the tournament now. As far as the men is concern, the top two players is still alive in the tournament and I dont think we will see Roger Federer or Nadal being defeated by any unseeded players so I should expect the same two to be in the finals again this year but I think Safin could pose a threat to either one because he is playing some good tennis, so keep an eye on him.

The second half of the 3rd Round will be happening today with the likes of Jankovic and Nadal playing. You can watch Wimbledon live everyday at StarSports everyday starting from 6.30pm so don't miss it.

Happy 90th Birthday to Nelson Mandela!

A star-studded cast of artists helped Nelson Mandela celebrate his 90th birthday with a giant concert in London on Friday in support of his 46664 AIDS campaign. If you are wondering why the campaign is named after the number 46664, it is because that was Mandela's prison number during his 27-year incarceration for trying to topple South Africa's apartheid regime. Queen, Amy Winehouse, Will Smith and Annie Lennox were among the performers in Hyde Park for the gig, which was broadcast around the world.

As Mandela walked on stage, Hollywood actor Will Smith led the crowd in a chorus of "Happy Birthday." The former South African president was received to rapturous applause from an emotional crowd, which fell silent when the global icon spoke. Mandela, who retired from public life nine years ago, is now expected to retreat further from the limelight. London was the scene of a concert 20 years ago to celebrate Mandela's 70th and to raise awareness of his imprisonment. Proceeds from the concert in London's Hyde Park will go toward the 46664 Campaign, which Mandela founded in 2003 to raise awareness about the impact of AIDS, especially in Africa, and to promote HIV-prevention measures around the world. Anglo-Swedish rockers Razorlight got the crowd going, before Scottish singer Lennox gave an impassioned speech about combating the virus. Troubled British soul singer Winehouse, who has been battling drug and lung problems, was also included in the performance list and she was back on form with a powerful performance. To close the show, Winehouse led the ensemble in a rendition of "Free Nelson Mandela", with the anti-apartheid anthem's writer Jerry Dammers on keyboards. Other guests at the concert included British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, former U.S. President Clinton, talk show host Oprah Winfrey and actor Robert De Niro.

Mandela served as his country's first democratically elected president from 1994 to 1999. In recent years, he has campaigned on behalf of HIV and AIDS awareness and has long called the battle against AIDS a basic human right. In 1964, a court sentenced Mandela to life in prison for plotting to overthrow the government by violence. He spent the first 18 years at Robben Island Prison, off Cape Town, South Africa, and later spent time at Pollsmoor prison and Victor Verster Prison, closer to the mainland. While in prison, Mandela became recognized as the most significant black leader in South Africa, and he became a potent symbol of resistance in the anti-apartheid movement. Mandela consistently refused to compromise his political position to obtain his freedom. South African President F.W. de Klerk released Mandela in February 1990 after 27 years in prison. Mandela was elected president of the African National Congress the following year, and in 1994, he was elected president of his country. [End of report]

I didn't get to watch the concert on television but I did managed to watch snippets of it on the news today and it was a great turnout. Precisely 46,664 tickets went on sale for the three-and-a-half-hour concert and Im not sure whether it was a sold out but Im sure there was at least 40,000 people who turn out for the concert and why not? He is a great man, well respected not just in the African region but across the globe as well and he fully deserved the tribute that he got. It is amazing to know that even at his age, he is actively involve in HIV/AIDS awareness campaign, something that is very close to him. After his retirement, Mandela admitted that he may have failed his country by not paying more attention to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. He has since taken many opportunities to highlight this South African and international tragedy which still exist until today. Mandela also lost a son to AIDS in January 2005.

Many people, particularly in Africa look upon him as an inspiration. It is because he is a leader who ended apartheid and he is a man who is willing to go to any extent to fight for the things that he strongly believed in, even if it means death. He has said in the past that he is even willing to die to achieve his goals of having a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. His birthday actually falls on July 18 so officially, he has not turn 90 yet but there is no problem having his birthday celebrations in advance. He still look in a good shape though at his age if you ask me. As much as he appreciate the big birthday celebration, I think the main purpose of the concern was to promote HIV/AIDS awareness which is still prevalent today especially in the African region. In South Africa alone, which is one of the countries worst-hit by HIV, there are about 5.41 million people living with the illness. That is why such campaign is important.

Anyway, the concert was also aimed at celebrating the life of one of the greatest person ever to live, so I would like to take the opportunity to wish Mr Nelson Mandela a Happy Birthday. May you be bless with a good health and a bright future ahead. You are a truly great man and a great inspiration to many.

*The report was taken from AFP & CNN.

Lippi re-appointed as Italy coach...

Italy's 2006 World Cup-winning coach Marcello Lippi has been re-appointed after Roberto Donadoni's contract was not extended. Donadoni left after Italy went out of Euro 2008 when they lost to Spain on penalties in the quarter-final. Lippi, 60, will be unveiled in Rome on Tuesday, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) said on its website.

He has been out of coaching since leading Italy to their World Cup triumph against France in Berlin. Donadoni, 44, signed a new contract extension prior to Euro 2008 but one of the conditions of the deal was for the world champions to reach the last four. The FIGC activated a 10-day get out clause that applied to both Donadoni and the Italian Football Federation after they lost to Spain. Donadoni, a former AC Milan player, succeeded Lippi in 2006 but the FIGC said his tenure had "run to its natural expiry date". The 60-year-old Lippi possesses one of the most impressive CVs in the game having managed Serie A giants Juventus twice, along with spells at the likes of Napoli and Internazionale. [End of report]

It was a surprising news this is. No, not the fact that the FIGC has decided to activate the get out clause in Donadoni contract, but because Lippi is back as the manager of the team. When he decided to leave after the World Cup victory in 2006, I was very disappointed and I was expecting him to manage a club but that didnt happen. I was even more disappointed when the FIGC appointed Donadoni because to be honest, I have never heard him before so I thought he would be a bad choice and I was right. Yes he did managed to help the team qualify for the Euro tournament but our performance in the competition was poor. Just one win and one draw in the group stage, that is disappointing and the performance against Spain was terrible as well so he contract termination was coming. But that is history as far as I am concern. Lippi is back and I am excited for the future. Im sure he can do a good job just like he has done in the past and hopefully, he can help us to defend the World Cup in two years time but first we have to go through the qualifiers. With Lippi, anything is possible now.

Lippi has already said that he is very happy and motivated after being appointed the manager once again and Im sure the entire country is feeling the same way as well. I cant wait for the next match and it would be interesting to see if he will make any major changes to the team. It's time to bring the cigar back. Forza Italia! Oh and before I end, I would like to thank Donadoni for everything he has done for the team. He has the heart but unfortunately, that isn't enough but thanks anyway Don.

*The report was taken from BBC.

Gates leaves Microsoft to focus on philanthropy...

When you talk about Microsoft, the first thing that comes to your mind might be Bill Gates, its co-founder. He will leave the company soon however. Gates is set to step down on Friday from what is now the world's largest software company to work full-time at the charitable organization -- the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation -- built by his vast fortune. No longer the world's richest man, after being topped by investor Warren Buffett and Mexico's telecoms tycoon Carlos Slim, Gates says great wealth brings with it great responsibility.

The 52-year-old, will leave behind a life's work developing software to devote energy to finding new vaccines or to micro-finance projects in the developing world. As Microsoft's biggest shareholder, Gates will remain chairman and work on special technology projects. His 8.7 percent stake in Microsoft is worth about $23 billion. Gates first programmed a computer at 13, creating a class scheduling system for his Seattle high school. As he gained more experience, he realized the potential that software held to change how humans worked, played and communicated. Gates realized at an early stage of the PC revolution that software would be more important than hardware. Working with boyhood friend Paul Allen, Gates founded Microsoft, naming the company for its mission of providing microcomputer software. Microsoft went public in 1986 in one of the most celebrated offerings of its time. By the next year, the soaring stock made Gates, at age 31, the youngest self-made billionaire. Microsoft CTO Ray Ozzie will take over Gates' role as Chief Software Architect starting immediately. Gates reitered that he is not retiring from the software business, calling the change a re-ordering of priorities. [End of report]

When I first heard this news, I was slightly surprised and I didn't saw it coming. Nevertheless, I thought it is the right time for him to step down. There is no doubt that he has done a fantastic job with Microsoft. Their softwares is probably one of the best in the world with the likes of Microsoft's Windows and Office. However, not everything is great about the company or Gates in particular. The next version of its operating system software, Windows Vista, will arrive for most users next year, more than five years after the previous version of Windows was launched. Internally, some blamed Gates for pushing developers to do too much, leading the company two years ago to reset plans for the product and scale back its ambition. His decision to step down is not just a good move for him but for the company as well. It will create the possibility of fresh thinking in an organization seen by many in the tech industry as being hung up on the past. And as far as Gates is concern, it will give him more time to focus more on his efforts in his foundation. It's great to see him doing philanthropy work, a trend that is all too common for rich people nowadays after their main career is over. At the foundation, Gates says his role will be much like his role as chairman at Microsoft.

I would also like to point out the fact that Steve Ballmer, Bill Gates current business partner will no longer have Gates at his side for the first time in his 26 years with Microsoft. The duo, possibly the most successful business combination in history, set about deciding how to divide up Gates's tasks if he followed through with his plans. And Ballmer began to think about how his role as the sole leader of the software giant would change. I think he would do fine without Gates in his side. He has enough experience to overcome this minor blip and Im sure he wont want to disappoint Gates but there is no doubt that the task ahead of him would be a difficult one. It's good to hear that he is planning to stay in the company for a very long time. Nevertheless, even without Gates, I believe Microsoft is good enough to go on and continue to maintain its status as the leading software company in the future.

What is certain though, Bill Gates will forever be remembered for being the man who found one of the greatest software company ever to exist in the world and even though he wouldn't necessarily be a widely admired figure, he will also be remembered as someone who created an activity that came to represent a vital part in our lifestyle and he will definitely go down as one of the great businessmen in history.

*The report was taken from Reuters.

Electricity tariffs to rise 4.98% from next quarter...

Electricity tariffs will go up by 4.98 per cent or by 1.19 cents per kilo watt per hour (kWh) for all households from the next quarter, beginning July 1. Singapore Power said the hike is due to higher electricity costs arising from higher fuel prices. The forward fuel oil price is 11.03 per cent higher than that of US$74.40 per barrel for the current quarter.

The electricity tariff is revised every quarter and this latest hike is lower, in percentage terms, than what it was three months ago. Still, coming at the back of rising inflation and an overall increase in the cost of living, not everyone is taking the news well with a resident complaining that she might not be able to cope with the rising cost of living, having to spend $100 on her bills already. Low-income families are expected to be hardest hit, but grassroots organisations said there are measures to help residents cope. Dr Teo Ho Pin, Mayor of North West District said that the government will introduce the 'Power Up' scheme to help restore electricity supply to those who could not afford to pay their electricity bills and had their electricity supply terminated by working together with grassroots organisations and grassroots advisors.

Another group of people who might be hardest hit is the motorists as they have had to cope with the rising pump prices. Since Monday, petrol prices are up 5 cents a litre and 10 cents for diesel. The latest to join in is the Singapore Petroleum Company (SPC), which has nearly 40 stations island-wide joining the likes of Shell and Caltex who have already announced their hikes since last July. [End of report]

My brain is going to pop out soon hearing all these price increase. Everything is going up and up nowadays. Food prices is going up, oil prices is going up, and now electricity bills is going up, what's next? I don't belong to the low-income families group but the middle-income group just like most of you people so I think my family shouldn't have any problem paying the bills despite the latest hike, but we are still going to be affected by it. My family monthly bill on average is about in the $100 range and I think we will need to pay about $150-$180 in the future so I definitely need to reduce my usage of electrical appliances like spending less time on the computer or playstation. I would like to think I am the most energy saving person in my family. I always get angry when one of my family members didn't switch off the lights in the room or switch off any other socket when nobody is using it. It does not only add to the electricity bills unnecessarily but also an irresponsible act on their part.

Anyway, I always like to see the bright side of things in any problem and in this case, I think less electricity usage means we can save more energy and save the environment more right? Let's take the water usage for example. Do you know that turning the tap off when you brush your teeth, you can save up to 5 litres a minute. And do you know that the average house is responsible for more air pollution than the average car? You can cut utility bills and save energy at the same time by purchasing energy-efficient appliances, fixtures, and other home equipment such as fluorescent light bulbs. And try to use the fans instead of the air-condition system whenever possible.

So there you go. An increase in the electricity tariffs might not be a bad thing afterall. If you can reduce your electricity usage, you might also be doing your part to help the environment at the same time. Till next time, remember to save your electricity whenever possible not just for your own good but for the good of mankind and the environment as well.

*The report was taken from ChannelNewsAsia.

Heartbreak for Turkey...

Turkey has been eliminated from the European Championship on Wednesday after Philipp Lahm ended their storybook run in the tournament with a late goal in a 3-2 semifinal victory that kept Germany on target for a record fourth title. A much-weakened Turkey side had dominated the first half but were only level at half-time after Germany's Bastian Schweinsteiger had cancelled out Ugur Boral's opener.

The second half was a more even contest and looked to be going to extra-time after Germany striker Miroslav Klose and Semih Senturk of Turkey had each scored in the final 11 minutes. It was looking like the match was heading for the extra-time but there was still time for Lahm to smash home the winner as the three-times European champions (1972, 1980, 1996) reached Sunday's final in Vienna, where they will meet either Spain or Russia. It was Turkey's first Euro semifinal. The last time they went this far in a tournament was back in the 2002 World Cup where they made it to the semifinals too. There was one unwelcome incident during the game, when a protester carrying a banner with the word "Tibet" on it ran onto the field but was soon subdued by security officials. Meanwhile, outside the stadium, there was another problem as well. Many people around the world did not get to watch some of the last moments in the second period of the game because the international TV feed went out, due to a violent thunderstorm that hit Vienna, where the TV broadcast center is located, was blamed. [End of report]

I woke up to watch the match and of course, I was rooting for Turkey. I thought the Germans would dominate the game but I think Turkey did gave them a good fight. Just look at the scoreline. It was rather unusual because Turkey did score first, because in their previous matches, they were trailing first before they scored and went on to win the match and they almost did it again yesterday against Germany but it was never meant to be. Before the match, they had 9 players out through injuries or suspension and these were key players who have been vital for them in their previous matches such as Nihat, Turan and Emre so I didnt thought they had a good chance of making it to the finals since Germany had put out their strongest team. But just like the times before, the Turkish team proved me wrong once again and they managed to play just as well even with a weakened squad. I was really pissed off when the match was disrupted in the second half due to violent thunderstorm that hit Vienna. It happened not just once, or twice but three times if I remember correctly. As a result, I missed the third and fourth goals in the match but was just in time to watch the last goal before the broadcast went out again a few seconds later. It was 90min then and there was not much hope that Turkey would make a comeback again.

It's sad and disappointing to see Turkey losing out in the final seconds of the match but thats football. However, I think Turkey had performed very well in the tournament. If they were to go through to the finals, Im sure many of you would agree with me when I say they deserve it. It's ironic isn't it how Turkey had lost the same way they had won their previous matches, scoring in the dying seconds of the game. There is no doubt that yesterday's match was great to watch, but I think the best game for me so far is still the Turkey v Czech match. They have come to the end of a great performance, one thing they would have gain from this experience is respect I think from other football nations. Their coach Fatih Terim has said he would probably be stepping down after the tournament and he has said it again yesterday, so I think he would not be managing the team in their next match or tournament. I like the passion he has shown during the course of the tournament and I hope if he does leave the team, he would be managing a club in England someday down the road. I think he has done a brilliant job and Im sure his successor will have a tough time continuing his legacy.

With Italy and now Turkey out, my best bet is on Russia to win the competition. I have been a huge fan of Guus Hiddink since he became the manager of South Korea in the 2002 World Cup if Im not mistaken. And not to mention Arshavin is playing in the Russian team as well, so I hope they can do a payback for the Italians by knocking out Spain tonight. You may watch the match live on Starhub Channel 30 if you have subscribed to the channel or the Preview Channel for free at 2.45am tonight. If you have Indonesian channel RCTI on your television, you may watch it there as well. It might be a little bit blurry but the commentary is in english. Lets hope there won't be any thunderstorm or anything else to disrupt the broadcast tonight.

*The report was taken from CNN and Associated Press.

'Many' bodies found in Philippine ferry...

Philippine rescue divers said they found many bodies Tuesday inside the ferry that sank with more than 850 people on board, confirming the worst fears of desperate relatives. Anxious and angry family members had been clinging to hope their loved ones might still be found alive inside the doomed Princess of the Stars, which capsized and sank Saturday when it got caught in the path of a typhoon.

But with blame flying over how the 24,000-tonne ferry was allowed to set sail with the storm looming, shaken rescue divers said they had discovered the worst when they finally worked their way into the submerged ship Tuesday. Philippine civil defence chief Anthony Golez said 57 people had survived the sinking, one of the worst maritime disasters in the country's history -- some of whom made it onto lifeboats in. But many passengers reportedly had little time to react when the vessel, trapped when Typhoon Fengshen suddenly changed path, began tilting and then quickly capsized off the central island of Sibuyan. It reportedly developed engine trouble while trying to make it to safety.There have been reports from local officials of dozens of survivors being found in nearby islands, but coast guard officials said they had yet to confirm those accounts. Rescue effort has been made even more difficult due to the bad weathers. The tip of the overturned hull is all that remains above water after the tragedy, which was the fourth disaster for the ferry company, Sulpicio Lines, since 1987 -- including a crash that year which left around 4,000 dead. The government slapped an immediate ban on Sulpicio's vessels from leaving port on Monday but it was still selling tickets on Monday despite the ban. [End of report]

It's a sad news to hear. More than 850 people on board but so far, only a few had survived. The first thing that came to my mind when I heard the news was why did the ferry was allowed to sail when they probably knew that a typhoon was coming or might be coming at their direction. And not to mention, this was the fourth disaster for the ferry company, I mean something is seriously wrong with them. When I heard that it was still selling tickets despite the ban imposed on the vessels, I think it is absolutely outrageous. You have a situation here where a lot of people still missing and their friends and families are worried about whether anyone they know of had survived the tragedy, but you are still selling the tickets. That is just not right. I hope that the Philippine authorites will investigate this matter thoroughly and punish those who are responsible for the tragedy. Clearly, someone has to take responsibility for the disaster. I'm sure the ferry company, in fact all ferry companies in the affected area were informed of the typhoon and if the ferry company had decided to go against the warning despite knowing the news, then they should be punish. Other possible reason that have been suggested for the tragedy is the fact that it is a very old ferry. It was a 20-year-old ferry. It is being reported that the ferry developed engine trouble while trying to make it to safety. But I think even if the ferry is new, it won't be able to survive the typhoon. While investigations on the matter is important, I think finding anymore survivors should be the priority now but the situation doesn't look good at the moment.

As each day goes by without any news of more survivors, there is not much hope that the ferry victims who have yet to be found will survive. There are reports that are saying that there may be more survivors to be found in the nearby small islands. I hope that is true but I think friends and families affected by the tragedy should be prepared for the worst. The latest number of survivors and death, according to Sulpicio Lines, is recorded as 59 survivors and 15 dead after names were checked against the ferry's manifest.

*The report was taken from AFP.

The 5A 2007 Award Ceremony is coming soon...

Attention to all former 5A BNSS students from the 2007 batch. I would like to announce that I will be organising the 5A Award Ceremony for the year 2007 where there will be several nominations such as the LoudMouth of the Year and the Student of the Year award. You, the 5A students will be able to do the voting for each category. Details will be out soon on how you can vote, so to find out all the award categories and whether you are nominated for any award, continue to log in to the Blogging God's blog, where everything is great.

Zimbabwe opposition leader pulling out of election....

Opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai pulled out of Zimbabwe's violence-wracked presidential runoff on Sunday, declaring that the election was no longer credible and the loss of life among his supporters was simply too high. The announcement cleared the way for President Robert Mugabe to continue his 28-year rule, despite mounting condemnation from even loyal African allies that the former independence hero has become a despot who has bankrupted the country's once thriving economy.

Tsvangirai addressed a news conference on Sunday in Zimbabwe's capital after thousands of militants loyal to Mugabe prevented opposition supporters from gathering for its main campaign rally. Tsvangirai called on the United Nations, the European Union and the Southern African regional bloc to intervene. He said he would put forward new proposals by Wednesday on how take the country forward. The opposition has repeatedly said it would welcome a government of "national healing" including ruling ZANU-PF party members but not Mugabe himself. Despite him dropping out of the race, Friday's runoff would go ahead in accordance with the constitution according to Zimbabwean Information Minister, to prove Zimbabweans' support for Mugabe, who has held power since independence from Britain in 1980.

Tsvangirai won the first round of the presidential election on March 29, but did not gain an outright majority against 84-year-old Mugabe. That campaign was generally peaceful, but the runoff has been overshadowed by violence and intimidation, especially in rural areas. Independent human rights groups say 85 people have died and tens of thousands have been displaced from their homes, most of them opposition supporters. Today, world powers have voiced out their concern over the issue. Both London and Washington said they were prepared to raise their concerns in the United Nations Security Council on Monday while UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon thought Tsvangirai's decision was a "deeply distressing development" that did not bode well for the future of democracy in Zimbabwe, his spokesman said. Meanwhile, the European Union's foreign policy chief Javier Solana called the election a "travesty of democracy." [End of report]

When I heard the news that Tsvangirai was dropping out of the race yesterday, I was very disappointed but not the least surprise. I don't think he has any choice but to quit not because he thinks he will not stand a chance against Mugabe in the presidential runoff later, but because he was worried that more and more supporters of him and his party will be kill if he stayed on even though it is only a few more days till the runoff. There is no doubt in my mind that the people behind the killings and violence has links with Mugabe himself even though he rejects the opposition claims that he was responsible for it. He even said recently that 'only God' can remove him from power which clearly shows what kind of man he is. I think by saying that, Mugabe is trying to say that he is willing to do everything in his power to ensure that he will still be the president of the country after the runoff, even if it means using measures of violence and as long as the violence continues, there is no chance that the election will be free and fair. I don't think democracy still exist in the country. It is either Mugabe's way or no other way.

Zimbabwe used to be one of the countries in Africa that prosper and it's people living happily and peacefully. Other African nation used to look upon Zimbabwe as the country they should be like but right now, most of its people are living in extreme poverty and basic supplies of food and other necessities are lacking. Anyone who dares to go up against Mugabe is either being imprison or attack and that is what we are seeing now in Zimbabwe. I don't know what is the point of still having the runoff when Tsvangirai has quit. World powers need to do more to restore democracy and stability in the country. The situation in Zimbabwe is unacceptable. I don't mind if Mugabe wins the presidential runoff but it has to be done in a free and fair manner, not through violence and fear. The only thing that is clear now is that the situation there is going to get much more complicated and the only thing that could bring peace and stability back in the country is I think, intervention from the world major powers. It's high time that they stop the condemning and take some actions.

Whatever it is, I just hope the violence and killing will be put to a stop immediately and that the situation in the country will change for the better whatever the outcome will be. Till next time, see ya.

*The report was taken from Associated Press and AFP.

China cop promoted for breastfeeding quake babies...

If you have been following the news about the Sichuan earthquake last month, you would probably know about the China cop who started to breast-feed several infants who were separated from their mothers or orphaned by the devastating earthquake. Jiang Xiaojuan, 30, left her 6-month old baby with her parents and took part in the disaster relief work, breastfeeding nine babies, earning her the nickname of "the police mum" in the press. Well, she now has been given a better job due to her kind deeds.

She got promoted recently, she was appointed to the Communist Party of China Committee of the Jiangyou Public Security Bureau and became the bureau's vice commissar, apart from being awarded titles as the "hero and model police officer" and "excellent member of the Communist Party". Her promotion was not well-recieved by some members of the public however. There has been online protests that promotions should be awarded on merit, not merely for good deeds. Many people voiced objections when the Jiangyou government sought public opinion only after making the promotion but there are also others who felt that she deserved the promotion as she did show she was a good public servant. [End of report]

I saw her on the news once during the early days of the earthquake and I have to say that she has a kind heart. I mean, if you are a mother, would you be willing to leave your 6-month old boy, who still requires to be breast-feeded, to go to the disaster area to offer your aid, not just some normal aid but to breast-feed the infants who were separated from their mothers. Some people would say why would you want to go to such extent to help when there are other better ways to do so. So I would have to applaud her for her courage and for being such a kind soul. But thats not the issue that I want to discuss here. I would like discuss whether her promotion was justify because of her kind act. Well if you ask me, I would say yes. I would like to take into account that it was a special situation and she did go beyond what was required of her and I think such acts should be greatly rewarded. There was nobody who forced her to do what she did, it was her own moral values that encouraged her to do it. She already said that there was nothing special about her kind act and it should not be widely mention so I don't think it is fair to say that she did it because she wanted to get some kind of reward or promotion. It was just her motherly instinct.

I'm sure she would be surprised by news of her promotion because I don't think she had expected it nor did she wanted it. But nevertheless, I doubt she will turn the offer down either. I'm sure she would be doing the same thing over and over again whenever she is able to extend her help even if she did got the promotion. So instead of protesting that she shouldn't get promoted just because she had performed a good deed, they should change their views and judge things in a different way. Yes, merits are important when someone is being considered to get a promotion but I think different situations require different outcomes and in this case, I think her promotion was fully justified. A promotion is just an increase of your position in a job, but it is the job that you are doing that matters the most and I think Mrs Jiang will continue to serve her community well as a public servant. I just hope that we will hear more kind deeds such as this one whenever there is a disaster happening anywhere in the world for that matter. Ordinary people can do extra ordinary things as demonstrated by Mrs Jiang. It’s a mystery women don’t often speak of publicly, what it’s like to nourish another human being or many from one’s own blood and bones. It is I think, one of the greatest honors in the world. It’s people like Jiang who really represent the true spirit of modern China, the compassionate soul.

I'm not asking for you to breast-feed any infants affected by a disaster when they are separated from their mothers if you're a mother yourself, but just a small kind deed will do. Alright I'm done for now, enjoy your weekend, and for you who are starting your new school term on Monday, enjoy your school life once again.

*The report was taken from REUTERS.

'A Conversation With The Blogging God'...

Hi peeps. Thank you for visiting my blog once again. Im back with another edition of 'A Conversation With The Blogging God' and for this edition, I managed to catch up with a guy who I would consider as a good friend of mine. He is helpful, likes to smile and make new friends. He has been pressuring me to post his interview as you can see on my chatbox. He is also the guy whom I nominated to be the class chairman last year and who else if it isn't Azam. Let's begin our conversation shall we...

Hi Azam. Thanks for your time. First things first, fill us in on where are you now and what course are you taking.

I'm currently studying in ITE College East taking up Mechanical Engineering as my core subject. My first thought of being posted there by the Ministry of Education was a surprise to me. I did not expected I would end up there. A place which to me doesn't provide a stable future for its students. When I first heard that I am going to be posted there, my heart sank like a boulder falling from an edge of a cliff. But I quickly got up from the ground and pull myself together as I was saying to myself ... ' I want this course badly...Why am I feeling bad about it?'

I never thought that you could be such a philosophical person. But since you are already studying there, how are you enjoying ITE life so far? Has it been what you have expected it to be like?

During my first week of orientation, I kept things to myself. I didn't want to mix with those kind of people with bad companies you know what I mean. I mix with the quiet ones then. Still, my conversation with them were restricted to certain areas as both parties didn't want to know too much of each other at one go. However, I had manage to keep at least five contact numbers, all boys of course and it has only been the first day! Wow! I didn't expect to make a lot of friends in such a short period of time.

Well good for you. Now when you heard you was posted to the ITE, you of course had the option to appeal to maybe go into Poly, but you didn't. Was it because you thought that it would be a waste of time or because you think sticking to the course in ITE was a better option, not just in the short term, but in the long term as well?

Yes, slowly but steadily, I could accept the fact of being an ITE student. The college here has very high standard facilities. It is the only ITE College that has two cafeteria compared to the rest of ITE Colleges which only has a canteen like a secondary school. The teachers here are very helpful as well in teaching us, trying to seek out our fullest potential. This reminds me of our secondary school days. Thinking back of trying to appeal for Poly for me would give me a 50-50 chance to get into one. I then thought to myself that I might as well continue to pursue my studies in ITE where the course I'm interested in has accepted me. Even though it will be a longer journey, I know I have to work real hard to get myself into a poly after this two year course. But if I don't manage to do it, by being an ITE graduate, I believe I have the upper hand in getting a job than Poly graduates due to the first hand experience that I will receive in my two years in ITE and the jobs attachments that I will be put through.

I see. Going back to the past, has there been anything that you miss about the old school?

My answer would be a definite yes! Out of all my years of schooling, I would have to say that I miss my secondary school friends the most. They are my most price possession. Without them, I feel helpless like a coconut floating in the middle of the ocean.

Well, I'm glad you are not a coconut Azam. Now, as the class chairman, how was Secondary 5A like in terms of the discipline and attitude?

Well Ridzuan! Indeed you 'sabo' me to be the class chairman. I have to give credit to you. Thanks to you, I've change to be a better and responsible person as a whole. At first, I thought it would be a piece of cake watching you doing your duty as the chairman in the past. However, I had greatly underestimated the role and what was required as I would realised what an uphill task it would be after taking over. But at least I learnt to get closer with everyone in the class and get to know them even better. In terms of discipline and attitude, I would say good honestly. The class is an all-rounder. A little bit of this and that. 5A is the best class I've ever come across as compared to the other years of my school life. We were so well-bonded that we behaved well like how true adults should behave.

(Laughs) Well firstly, I didnt 'sabo' you. I thought four years as the class chairman was enough for me and it was time to give others the opportunity to do the job and at that time, I thought you was the most perfect candidate to replace me and I think you did well. Moving on, I know you are really close with Syairazi, who was the class vice chairman. How was it like working with him? Did you enjoy it or did he gave you a difficult time?

Syarazi, well, he is a bit of both, a handful and helpful at times. This part I shall not explain any further as you well know what he is like (smiles) .

Alright sure. Back in the past, you was, shall I say, 'well known' for having a good goal keeping abilities. Tell us how did your interest in becoming a goal keeper came about?

Moving on to my sports life which you are so eager to know, I have been playing soccer ever since Primary 4 if I'm not wrong. I usually play it with my cousin, Alfiyan when we are free. He usually plays in midfield and defence but sometimes as an attacker. Now back to me, I used to play as a defender back then. But from my time in Primary 5 onwards, I have been playing as a goalkeeper. I was forced by Alfiyan of course to play in a position that I did not want to. But yet again, I have to give him credit. Thanks to him, I'm a first-choice regular goalkeeper. He taught me some goal keeping abilities which has given me an advantage to be part of a team when I am playing a match. And that's why you have seen me play in every single match as a goalkeeper.

What's ahead for you?

The last time I scored a goal was during the chalet outing on the second last night. I scored four goals to draw 4-4 with the opposition consisting of the likes of Fitri, Yazeed, Syairazi & Hasri. My team includes Ivan, Azlan, Joey and me. Every player from the opposition scored one goal each. It was a match to remember as it reminded the match between Tottenham vs Chelsea.

To clear things out, I don't know whether that answer was meant for the previous question about being a goalkeeper or my last question but I didn't receive any answers regarding what Azam is planning to do ahead so I just post what I had receive from him.

And lastly, any message for our former classmate who might be reading this now?

Yes, to all my classmates, my wish to you all is to see you succeed in life and be happy always when you are down by recalling my words of encouragement. Once again Thank you Ridzuan for this great opportunity.

Well you're very much welcome Azam. I would also like to thank you for taking part in this conversation although I know everybody wants to do it, I dont need to ask. But anyway, I hope you have enjoyed reading this edition of 'A Conversation With The Blogging God'. For more interviews, continue to log in to the No. 1 blog, my blog, the Blogging God's blog. See ya.

Thai school gets transvestite bathrooms...

Yes you heard it right. For teen boys who prefer to dress as girls at one rural high school in Thailand, taking a bathroom break no longer means choosing between "male" and "female" restrooms. There's now a "transvestite toilet." The Kampang School in northeastern Thailand conducted a survey last term that showed more than 200 of the school's 2,600 students considered themselves transgender, said school director Sitisak Sumontha.

So, when classes resumed in May, the school unveiled a unisex restroom designated by a human figure split in half; part man in blue and part woman in red. Below it are the words "Transvestite Toilet." The news of course was greatly received by the transgender students there as they no longer need to feel worry about being watched, laughed at or groped when going to the restroom. Most rural Thais are conservative in many ways, but the trailblazing toilet initiative at the school in northeastern Sisaket province reflects another aspect of Thai society: its tolerance of the country's very visible transgender community. The term describes a wide range of identities including cross-dressers, transvestites, transsexuals and those born with the physical characteristics of both sexes.

The school director Sitisak Sumontha, said the concept reflected a growing need at Thai schools and universities. Kampang is not Thailand's first educational institution to set up unisex washrooms, though Sitisak said he believed it was a first for a secondary school. A 1,500-student technical college in the northern province of Chiang Mai set up a "Pink Lotus Bathroom" for its 15 transvestite students in 2003. Deputy Education Minister Boonlue Prasertsopar recently said the ministry plans to count the number of transgender university students and added that the government is not trying to promote transgender interests but there is a need to do something if there are many of them in a university. Transgenders are regularly seen on TV soap operas and throughout Bangkok, working at department store cosmetics counters, popular restaurants, in office jobs and in the capital's red-light districts. Thailand also has transgender beauty pageants. [End of report]

I never thought to myself ever that I would hear a transvestite bathrooms to be build in a school but I guess I am wrong. But at the same time, I thought it was only right, as in the case of Thailand, which according to the report, have a significant number of transgender students, or students who considered themselves as transgender, to set aside a bathroom for them. I don't know what are the reasons why one decides to be or act like a transgender but whatever it is, they have the right to live the normal life with equal opportunities I guess. I know the term 'transgender' is subjective, many people have a different view of it, but my definition of the term which I think also can be applied on this case refers to individual who dresses and acts in a style or manner traditionally associated with the opposite sex.

Im sure they will feel a little bit awkward going into a male or female toilet because they will probably get laughed or tease at by other non-transgender students particularly if they are a boy, because from my experience, I find that boys who are transgender are more often being tease as compared to the girls. However, they should not worry about that anymore now as they will be able to go into the bathrooms with people of their own kind, and that will definitely make them feel much better. I tried to find out whether schools from other countries have such bathroom but I didn't find one, so I guess Thailand is the first country to do so. Forgive me if I'm wrong, but if you know of similar bathroom in other countries, please correct me.

We should also remember that there are also transgender adults, not just students. I am just wondering whether they also have a transvestite bathrooms in the working place. Maybe not because adults are far more matured and understanding of one another, and there is no need for a transvestite bathrooms afterall. I think you can find transgender people in any country you go, so I just hope that the there will not be a campaign to start building transgender bathrooms in schools everywhere. I think in Thailand's case, it is such a unique situation because like I said earlier, there are significant numbers of transgender students in their schools, I don't know if it is the only school in Thailand to have that huge number of transgender students, my views are based from the report only. If there are only a small group of transgender students in the school, then there is no point having a transvestite bathrooms. I'm glad that the Thai society is starting to have a change of views in how they treat the transgender community there. They will now have more opportunity to live their life as a normal person without having to fear being look down by others but some level of prejudice against them will still exist I think which is affecting them on the global scale as well.

As far as Singapore is concern, I don't know about how big or small the population of transgender here so I am unable to make any conclusion on whether such bathrooms will be a need in the future. But it will be interesting to see the reaction if it were to ever happen though I highly doubt the possibility. At the end of the day, the main thing I guess is that the majority of the public needs to understand and recognise the existence of transgender people and treat them just as equally as we treat non-transgender people. By the way, I'm not trying to promote transgender interests by writing this post, so please don't get the wrong idea.

*The report was taken from Associated Press.

Radio Y.E.S 93.3FM retains top spot in latest survey...

MediaCorp Radio's Chinese language station Y.E.S 93.3FM has retained its top spot in the latest radio survey by attracting more than a million listeners. Figures from the Neilsen Media Research survey show that the station captured closed to 30 per cent of the listenership in Singapore.

Another Chinese station, Love 97.2FM, took second spot while Class 95 is at number three, making it the top rated English radio station. Also in the top 10 are MediaCorp Radio's other English stations Gold 90.5FM, 987FM and 938LIVE. All three stations registered small slight gains in listenership. But SAFRA Radio's Power 98 dropped in the ranking. However, its Chinese language station Jia 88.3 registered a significant jump in listenership, moving up three positions from the last survey, to take 9th spot overall. [End of report]

When I heard this news yesterday, I was wondering whether the survey is fair because the Chinese population here make up the majority of Singaporeans as compared to the Malays or Indians and hence, this could be a significant factor in the survey. Being the majority, I think it greatly help the Chinese radio stations here in terms of the number of listenership and hence, I don't think it's fair to say that Y.E.S 93.3FM is the top radio station here in terms of the number of listenership. I don't think that many non-Chinese actually listen to Chinese stations and the same goes with other non-English radio stations because most of them are unable to understand what the other language is talking about. It's not like TV channels where there are subtitles and you can understand them. So when we want to take such things into consideration, I think we have to be neutral and leave out non-English radio stations to get a much more fair assessment of things and so, at least for me, I would like to think that Class 95 is the most popular radio station in Singapore.

I listen to it once in a while, and I think Class 95 offers the best service as compared to the other English radio stations, well particularly because I don't like to hear any hip hop or any rock and roll, the type of songs that can be heard of 987FM or Power 98. I think both 987FM and Power 98 has the same type of genre and attract the same group of listeners, the teenagers in particular and thats why I think Power 98 has dropped in the ranking. Anyway, I tried to find out the full list of the survey but was unable to do so. I took that report from the ChannelNewsAsia website, therefore I am unable to tell how well did the two Malay stations did. I don't know whether they are in the top 10 or not, I would like to think they are but the fact that it wasn't on that report with the other Mediacorp radio stations probably show that both, or at least one of the radio station didn't make it. I don't know about you, but my top 3 radio stations are Warna 94.2 FM, BBC World Service and of course Class 95.

That's it from me. Some interesting survey to report on. Till next time, take care.


*The report was taken from ChannelNewsAsia.

Woods out for rest of '08...

Today, I have a bad news to tell you guys if you're a Tiger Woods or a golf fan in particular. Tiger Woods will miss the remainder of 2008 after a planned reconstructive surgery on his left knee, the golfer's management company said Wednesday, confirming rumors that Woods was significantly more injured than he let on while winning the 108th U.S. Open. IMG released a statement saying the world No. 1 played at Torrey Pines with a torn anterior cruciate ligament and a double stress fracture of the left tibia.

He had arthroscopic surgery April 15 to clean out cartilage in his left knee, bypassing ACL surgery with hopes it could get him through the 2008 season. But going 91 holes for his 14th career major made it impossible to play any longer. Upcoming surgery makes his 14th major title even more staggering -- despite the stress fractures, he managed to win a U.S. Open that required five days of flinching, grimacing and a long list of spectacular shots that have defined his career. Woods played only seven times worldwide this year and won five of them. He will miss a major championship for the first time in his career and will not be available for the Ryder Cup in September. It will be the third surgery in five years on his left knee, although Woods said doctors have assured him the outlook is positive. Doctors have told him, however, that the stress fractures will heal with time. He did not say when he would have surgery. Woods was last seen in public late Monday afternoon walking with a pronounced limp across Torrey Pines toward the parking lot, the U.S. Open trophy in his arms. [End of report]

Such a sad news for me in particular because Im a huge fan of Tiger. I was really happy when he won the U.S. Open on Monday but at the same time, I couldn't help it but feel worried about his condition throughout the tournament and the fact that he had to make it all the way to the playoff and then sudden death didn't make the situation better and today's news has proved why. You know the thing I like most about Tiger is that he wants to win every competition that he is playing, even if he is not 100% fit but sometimes, that could be his downfall just like what he is experiencing now. At least now, he has learn a lesson on listening to his doctors more instead of following his own feelings because it is clear that his doctors knows the condition best.

It's definitely a big blow to any of his fans or even any other golf fans for that matter but Im sure other golf players will have some sense of relief now that they have one less competitor to worry about, but given the chance, Im sure they would want to compete with the best and there is no doubt for me that Tiger is the best right now. Just look at his performance at the U.S. Open. It was amazing. Even he has said that he has no regrets that he is going to miss the rest of the year after his impressive win at the U.S. Open and why not.

I think the U.S. Ryder Cup team will be most affected by this news. The tournament will start in September. I always love the Ryder Cup and by not having Tiger Woods in your team, that is definitely another big blow. Its like having Cristiano Ronaldo in your team when Tiger is playing. But its all done now. There is nothing anyone can do to make him play again this year. He will definitely be miss Im sure. I hope he will have a speedy recovery once he has undergone for his surgery and I hope when he comes back, it will still be the same Tiger Woods whom we have seen dominating the golf course throughout the years.

I am done for now. Take care and see you soon.

*The report was taken from Associated Press.

Japan makes robot girlfriend...

A Japanese firm has produced a 38 cm tall robotic girlfriend that kisses on command, to go on sale in September for around $175, with a target market of lonely adult men. She is big-busted, petite, very friendly, and she runs on batteries.

Using her infrared sensors and battery power, the diminutive damsel named "EMA" puckers up for nearby human heads, entering what designers call its "love mode." A spokeswoman from Sega Toys, the robot maker said that they wanted to break that stereotype and provide a robot that's sweet and interactive. And even though "EMA" is not a human, its maker said she 'can act like a real girlfriend.' EMA, which stands for Eternal Maiden Actualization, can also hand out business cards, sing and dance, with Sega hoping to sell 10,000 in the first year. Japan, home to almost half the world's 800,000 industrial robots, envisions a $10-billion market for artificial intelligence in a decade. It is only available in Japan for now unfortunately. [End of report]

I went to Youtube and saw a video of the robot and I have to say I am very impressed with it. "EMA" might just be what I need. I mean I am a lonely guy, lead a boring life and I need someone to make my life more exciting. I think "EMA" would fit that role perfectly. It will cost you U.S. $175 and if Im not wrong, that is about S$200. Pardon me if I am wrong, but I know it will definitely cost more that $175 if it were to ever sell in Singapore. Besides, having a robotic girlfriend means she will not nag or complain too much, thats another benefit. You cant have children with a robotic girlfriend though but I think that shouldnt be a problem with me. I hope it will be available in Singapore sometime in the future so I can get my hands on "EMA". I need to change the name though because EMA sounds like EMO. And for a robot, she is quite good looking too. If I can get my hand on one of those, maybe I wouldnt have to get married in real life, then I can save a lot of money.

Im sure it is going to be a huge success in Japan. They just love robots. And I really hope a Singapore company will try to bring them here once it is available worldwide. If you would like to see "EMA" in action, you may click this link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKGMzD_5bgA

*The report was taken from REUTERS.

Israel and Hamas 'agree truce' ...

Israel and militant group Hamas have agreed to end months of bitter clashes with a six-month truce starting on Thursday, Palestinian officials say. A Hamas official said he was confident all militant groups in Gaza would abide by the agreement, brokered by Egypt. Israeli officials meanwhile said they were "looking to see if this is serious".

The accord, set to go into effect at 6 a.m. Thursday has the bigger aim of ending Israel's yearlong economic blockade of Gaza and bringing home a captive Israeli soldier. But the phased approach is prone to pitfalls, and past truces have quickly broken down. Israel cautiously promised a "new reality" if the rocket fire ends. The deal was first announced in Cairo by Egypt's state-run news agency and quickly confirmed by Hamas. However, Hamas said it would respond to any Israeli attacks. Israel wants to halt the incessant rocket and mortar attacks on its southern communities that have killed seven Israelis over the past year. They also wants an end to Hamas arms smuggling into Gaza from Egypt, and the return of Cpl. Gilad Schalit, the Israeli soldier captured by Hamas-linked militants in a cross-border raid two years ago. Meanwhile on the other hand, Hamas wants Israel to lift its crippling blockade of Gaza, which has led to widespread shortages of fuel, electricity and basic goods. Israeli imposed the sanctions after Hamas violently seized control of Gaza last year, and has tightened the blockade recently in response to increased rocket fire.

Gaza Hamas leader Mahmoud Zahar said all the armed factions in Gaza are on board with the truce. Speaking after another Hamas official outlined details of the truce at a news conference, Zahar said Hamas will not put down its weapons, because he did not believe Israel would implement the cease-fire. Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak said Tuesday that no deal was in place yet saying that "it is hard to evaluate how long it would last" and that "the Israeli military is ready for any development." Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, a rival of Hamas, welcomed the accord while in Washington, the State Department said it was supportive of efforts to bring calm to Gaza and southern Israel while insisting that Hamas remained a terrorist organization. The truce will apply only in Gaza, Hamas says, and it will not be allowed to respond from Gaza to any Israeli action in the West Bank. Egyptian officials say they will continue efforts to broker a similar ceasefire in the West Bank. The last ceasefire between Hamas and Israel ended in April last year, shortly before the Islamist movement took control of the Gaza Strip. [End of report]

I was really pleased when I heard this news but still, I am a bit sceptical about exactly how long will the truce actually last. The fact that both parties, Hamas and the Israeli government is willing to talk and cooperate together is a good first step even though it comes with preconditions. Israel wants a halt to the rocket and mortar fire across its border from the Gaza Strip and the return of their captured soldier while Hamas wants a period of calm to consolidate itself and relieve the economic pressure on the Palestinian population as well as the opening of the entry and exit points into the Gaza Strip. Past informal cease-fires with Hamas has proved futile. Lets take the truce back in November 2006 for example which lasted only for several weeks. They were never formally signed because Hamas and Israel do not recognize each other and the situation is much or less the same I guess. While Hamas and Egypt officials has confirmed that there will be indeed a ceasefire, Israel itself has yet to confirm its agreement to the deal though I believe it is true, or I hope that is the case.

I strongly believe if both parties remain true to the truce, it will create more opportunities for more cooperation on similar deals in the future which can only be good. But it is much more easier to say it than doing it. It only takes one bullet or rocket from any side to attack the other and the truce will no longer work. Many Palestinians and Israelis are sceptical but many others who are suffering each day are pinning their hopes that the truce will finally work. I really hope it will. Hamas might be a terrorist organisation according to the U.S. but when there are opportunities to make peace, you have to work together. It also shows that no matter how much both parties hate each other, they need one another if they wish to achieve some level of success, albeit an indirect one in this case.

Whatever it is, I am hoping for the best. It is time to stop the suffering and killing. It might just be a small step, but it's a start. Both parties need to trust each other at least this once. I don't really have my hopes high that this truce will work. It would be excellent if that were to happen and only time will tell.

*The report was taken from Associated Press and BBC.