Bye, 2006

Camus and I would like to wish everybody Salam Aidiladha and Happy New Year.

Our resolutions are:

1. Hijrah to a better us.
2. Live a healthy lifestyle.
3. Prove that 1+1=3 ;p

Singapore with F, CK, and Y

Eventually, I was in Singapore again.

And, eventually, I met F, CK, and Y, after communicating through The Watering Hole for a long time. Oh, it was a very spontaneous trip. Kamal and I parked the car in Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak. Then, we walked towards Sultan Iskandar Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine Complex, where we caught a bus to Kranji MRT station, and later, boarded the MRT to Orchard Road. To our surprise, the whole procedure was not as arduous as we initially anticipated.

After greeting F at the basement of Scotts Shopping Centre, the three of us walked to Tangs to wait for CK and Y. As Kamal and F caught up with each other, I went to Tangs Beauty Hall. I was tempted to reward myself with a perfume, but, each counter was crowded. Moreover, the idea of the visit was to absorb the night scene on Christmas week along Orchard Road. As I was about to exit the place, I saw CK!

So began our little adventure. Dinner was at Ayam Bakar Ojolali, an Indonesian restaurant with excellent menu. All of us had Ayam Bakar Ojolali set. To top the scrumptious food was the Es Adpokat which I have loved since it was introduced to me in Bukit Tinggi, Indonesia.

Afterward, we walked, chatted, snapped photos, walked, chatted, snapped photos, and walked, chatted, and snapped photos. There were a lot of places to explore and things to share, but those could not be accommodated in an evening, eh. We are definitely going there again.

Meanwhile, we visited stores in random. The last being Marks and Spencer. I was awed by the wide array of selections. F, CK, and Y even bought us a lovely pampering set. It is just perfect for a particular date I planned with Kamal.

The outing in Orchard Road with them was truly memorable, thanks to the hosts' hospitality. When we returned to Johor Bahru after midnight, we missed the the leisurely walk, the upbeat crowd, the exuberant Christmas spirit, and most of all, the amiable F, CK, and Y. We can't thank you enough.

Ajek and Tuty

December 23, Saturday. Ajek and Tuty's wedding. Kamal and I pushed off to Johor after a Nasi Dagang Gulai Ikan breakfast at a Kelantanese stall adjacent to our place. It only started to rain once we crossed the Melaka and Johor border. Surrounding the North-South Expressway was a vast lake in place of the oil palm plantations. 

The invitation card for the reception was sent to my parents’ address, yet Kamal and I did not have the time to go to Rembau last week. I sent an a text message to Ainul, requiring the address. Nini replied, on behalf of Ainul. Surprise, surprise. They were reaching Ayer Itam, which meant they were also heading for Kampung Melayu Kangkar Pulai.

Another surprise greeted me at R&R Machap. After changing from the comfortable clothes meant for travelling to a more appropriate apparel for the wedding, I saw a familiar face. Alysha. She became our saviour, giving precise directions to the bride’s place. Thank you, again.

Under the canopy when we arrived were Nini, Ainul, Fatma with a friend, Wan with a friend, and Alysha with Fye, as well as Alysha’s younger brother. Kamal and I joined all of them and enjoyed the sumptuous Nasi Minyak with a nice selection of lauk-pauk including my favourite Tempe, Jawa style. Then, we exchanged a little something about each other. Only after letting the male companions proceed to the mosque opposite the house did we share more. Heh.

We met Kamilla upon entering Tuty’s room. It was nice to meet friends from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia days as well, namely Nanad, Shatul, and Hanim. Ajek and his entourage arrived at 2:30 p.m. The bride and groom had their photos taken on the beautiful dais immediately.

As Ajek and Tuty were seated for Makan Beradab, Haz arrived. We made a boisterous crowd. There were three crowds altogether actually. Us at Tuty’s, those at Gee’s, and those at Indah’s. Ainul and Nini attended Gee’s akad nikah the previous evening, so they shared with us the photos of the event. Gorgeous Gee, as always. I could not make it to Indah’s do as Kamal and I were occupied with work during her Akad Nikah. Nevertheless, Selamat Pengantin Baru. Our prayers are with you.

According to Tuty, SSP 98 girls sang a song for her and Ajek at the end of the reception. I am sure it was beautifully sung. Unfortunately, Kamal and I had left for Singapore then.

Dear Ajek and Tuty, both of you made a resplendent couple. Cheerful, too. Now, the question: who is next? 

Merry Christmas

The last day in the office before the holiday season was fun. Mainly because the new boss was not around as he has started taking leave. Me, I will be in the office right after Christmas holiday.

After a month of working in different places despite being in similar division, Wardah and I finally met. My, there was a lot to catch up. Lunch time was spent with Ayue, whom I am going to miss for her division is moving to a new building in January. When that time arrives, we will definitely arrange a lunch, a dinner, or even a breakfast date with you, chum.

The highlight of the day was the date Kamal and I were looking forward to. We were supposed to watch a midnight show but that film was aired at 7:15 p.m. No way I could begin my shopping spree two hours later, eh? So, we decided to watch it on dvd. Shopping we went.

Well, I was exaggerating about the shopping spree. I only bought the necessary items like a perfume and a make-up set to replace those bought yonks ago. There was also a pair of comfortable sandals to be alternately worn with the existing ones. Yes, I am Mrs. Practical. I would love to buy an office attire or a leisure top to be paired with my long skirts, but the Great Singapore Sale is more enticing, albeit the fact that we merely planned a short trip due to other commitments. Oh, the Shopping Carnival in Malaysia will only end on January 2, so, there is plenty of time for more shopping now that the Parliament is over.

Did I just yak about shopping? Sorry, I have been working hard, sacrificing social life.

Kamal and I are looking forward to attend Tuty's wedding in Skudai tomorrow. It will be followed by a trip to Singapore. Yay!

Friday

*Singing* Back to work, back to reality :D

She Suggested

"Why don't you go for a holiday?"

Your Pace

I just came back from two hospitals. The first visit was personal. The second was to support a dear friend, who has been with our family through highs and lows. Alhamdulillah, everything is fine.

I took the opportunity of the visit to the first hospital today to do my first Pap Smear. I remind myself to do Breast Self-Examination every month, too.

My mother, a breast cancer survivor, teaches me a great lesson about facing challenges. Albeit the monthly mammogram which she commenced at age 40 and her healthy lifestyle, Mak was diagnosed with breast cancer, third stage. There was neither physical symptoms nor pain. The mammograms turned out negative. It was Breast Self-Examination that saved her. She was 51 years old. Now, two years after the mastectomy and continuous hormonal therapy, she is stronger than ever. Yes, there were painful moments, but her positive attitude keeps her going further, venturing life to the fullest.

When you have control over your thoughts, you have control over your life.

"Affirm the positive, visualize the positive, and expect the positive, and your life will change accordingly."

Anonymous

Another Gift

When I opened my eyes this morning, the first beauty I saw was his face, calm in deep sleep. His hand encircled my waist. Having to attend to a number of tasks, I slowly moved away. He stirred, tightening his embrace.

Then, I realised that the moment was another gift from God. I beheld the beauty again, not wanting to be elsewhere but in his embrace, forever. Of course, I had to go in the end. So, I kissed him and whispered "you will always be with me, always."

*When he woke up and read this, he offered to download Elle magazine from where he downloaded his IT Magazine. Ha.

Passion

A cosy dinner in Bangi Kopitiam with him rejuvenated the senses I thought I have lost to work. This is in the list of restaurants I will bring my parents to. Ayah, in particular, is passionate about new experiences.

That date is entailed by another. This time around, in the comfort of our place. Kamal wooed me with a laptop and streamyx the day he started his work station. I fell for the combo like a woman to a dozen of white orchids. So, here we are next to each other, happily ever after. ;D

What a relaxing night. I will take everything in one long stride.

Happy Monday

Congratulations! We are officially People of the Year. Thank you, Time magazine.

*Sigh*

I don't want to be among the People of the Year. I just wanted to attend my friends' weddings. Kamal and I even had to settle with home-delivered McDonald's Value Meals for dinner. We fervently hope the plan to attend Tuty's wedding will not be crushed by more work.

*Smile*

At least, it is bedtime and I am going to dream a happy Monday!

Frolic and Picnic

I slept right after watching the finale of So You Think You Can Dance. Melody lost to her best friend, Nick. It does not matter. I simply enjoyed the talents and the athletic bodies. What an inspiration. Oh, I almost needed a set of new wardrobe from Ms. Read after those ten days of Masak Lomak Cili Padi.

Kamal watched The Departed afterwards with me sleeping in his arms. I simply collapsed after a hard day at work. I will watch it today if I could complete, at least, one of the office tasks.

Behind me, propped against the wall, are two laptop bags. One is Kamal's and another is mine. There is a document bag, too. I have brought out my laptop, but the documents can wait.

These last few days, Kamal had enticed me into watching Denzel Washington's movies and I gave in although it was already midnight. After watching the bland Mistress of Spices, which was less delicious than the book, I now fall for dark movies like The Manchurian Candidate and peculiar one like Inside Man. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy remains my favourite though.

I feel like frolicking in a cool, cool brook. Steamed bananas with cinnamon coconut sauce for the picnic, please.

A Moment Like This

"Listen to us," chorused the raindrops.

I found myself chanting along to the praises for As-Salam, The Source of Peace.

Talk

I wished the traffic light would turn red and freeze.

So that we could talk and talk and talk.

Blunder Week

Typing a minute of meeting due tomorrow in a hotel lobby while waiting for Kamal to finish a discussion with his colleagues is not my ideal way to spend a weekday evening. I prefer to curl up with him in front of the television, sharing a cup of Milo O. Nonetheless, The ZON Hotel lobby is surprisingly very cosy. I might be under the influence of this cafe latte, bitter and warm.

I paired with Mr. Saman as Master of Ceremony for Majlis Sambutan Hari Kualiti dan Integriti peringkat Kementerian Pengajian Tinggi today. All went well until that second when the script was partially covered by the list of award recipients. My mind was partially blurred, too. Suddenly, I stuttered!

An immediate boss, a professional Master of Ceremony, consoled me afterwards. According to her, such a mistake has been allowed many experienced Masters of Ceremony to become better. After all, I did well albeit the time constraint, as the event was delayed and the Minister had to attend another event afterwards. Still, that did not wholly console me.

My, what a blunder. I could laugh about it, but simultaneously hoped that I could forget it. That was when I received a news about a blunder made by a prominent figure in an important function. Hey, I declare this week as Blunder Week!

Now, if I type a longer entry, I might make a blunder in the minute of meeting.

Blogger Blunder!

Chums,

After changing to Blogger Beta, I have just discovered 74 comments for my posts the past few months, which I never knew existed!

Up to now, I still regret this particular technical blunder by Blogger. I knew how people have spent their precious time to read my experience and share their thoughts on some. I had fun reading your comments and with the little free time I have in between work, I have replied to some. As I write this, I am in the process of replying to more comments.

Thank you for dropping by.

The Great Time

I volunteered to be a part of the secretariat for a meeting scheduled in Kuala Lumpur at 8:30 a.m. today. Afterward, Kamal and I will go to Rembau. Because of my work commitment, he has to dismiss his batch's 20th Anniversary. I am happy he prefers to spend more time with the parents and the rest of the family. We will be going back to Kelantan end of December.

Fique and Zam were officially mother and father at 7:00 a.m. yesterday. Congratulations! Hopefully, Ayue and I would be able to visit the little boy when he returns to Bangi.

While Kamal was having a presentation in Youth and Sports Ministry yesterday morning, Mas and I decided that it had been a long time since we last met, thus the need for a date. Truly nice to talk and listen to you, Mas.

I also met Sham, Inor, Sai, and Nadila in INTAN yesterday evening. Prior to that, I met my batchmate, Imran, to get the cover page for the District Placement Report. Hazrul was in the room as well, busy completing a report. Instead of disrupting their work, I chatted with Tuan Mazlan. The Public Management Diploma Course Coordinator recollected that moment he caught me yawning in the middle of his lecture to a packed auditorium. When being asked to stand up and state the reason for the yawn, I did so and simply said, "saya rasa nak muntah, Tuan Mazlan" and immediately dashed to the toilet. Ha. He let me off the hook and my amused batchmates thought it was funny. Well, it was, as he was known for being extremely strict that the slightest mistake became a big deal. Yet, there I was, effortlessly escaping him. 

Oh, do have a great weekend, friends. Treasure the past, cherish the present. Enjoy each moment.

Kuak Lentang ke Hulu, Gaya Bebas ke Tepian

Good Morning. I am on leave today. Don't wish me all the fun in the universe yet. I am going to INTAN Bukit Kiara to collect the cover for District Placement Report and do some research in its library, which is close during the weekend.

 The report is due in two-week time, but with Indah and Tuty's weddings approaching, I better adhere to the proverb 'berenang-renang ke hulu, bermudik-mudik ke tepian, bersusah-susah dahulu, bersenang-senang kemudian'.

I am supposed to iron Kamal's work attire now. I was occupied with office tasks last weekend to iron one-week supply. I planned to do it last evening as I thought I would be alone at home. However, on the way back, Kamal called to ask what would I have on my dinner plate and whether it was enough for two. He came back early.

There went my ironing plan. Now, blogging seems more enticing than ironing. Oh, what happened to 'berenang-renang ke hulu, bermudik-mudik ke tepian, bersusah-susah dahulu, bersenang-senang kemudian'?

Count Your Blessing

+ A swimming session last evening.
+ Vegetable Soup for dinner.
+ Breakfast date with Kamal.
+ Smooth work.

- Allergy reaction on the skin.

++ I am blessed nevertheless, Alhamdulillah.

Monday Bliss

I woke up at 5:00 a.m. from a slight jolt. Monday blues kicked in after ten carefree days in Kuala Pilah. Although I cherished being near Kamal again, it wrenched my happiness just thinking about facing the bosses after failing to submit two important details for a minute of meeting via e-mail. The only chance I had to access Internet connection was the time the server went down. And then, there was the tight schedule for the District Placement Module. I did call, but, a document would be better. Worrying brought me nowhere, so I hugged Kamal and thought of happy thoughts.

The happy thoughts helped. Acting Boss Number One smiled generously at me despite reports from my Assistant Officers that the new power had transformed him into God of Storm, brewing one each day in the office. Phew. Boss Number Two was kind as always. He claimed that he received an e-mail of details to be included in a minute of meeting he had to do, from me. He was not being sarcastic. It must be the work of my Assistant Officers. Boss Number Three is taking one-week leave. And, there is a new boss, who shall be named as Boss Number Four.

Monday blues is now Monday bliss. I have a new interesting project at work. I also have an exercise date with Kamal this evening. If it rains, we would exercise in Alamanda. Mak, upon seeing how chubby I have become, prepared Sup Sayur dan Tauhu, hoping that the fat from ten days of Masak Lemak Cili Padi savoured in Kuala Pilah would melt away.

Yes, Kamal and I went back to Rembau. We did so late Saturday night, after attending MCOBA Annual Dinner in Istana Besar Seri Menanti. Still tired from the District Placement Module, I did not bother about dinner attire until it was too late to do anything. A kurung in gold hue saved the day although I wished I had thought of a better apparel for the beautiful event.

Kamal decided to leave the event right after the theatre ended so I could rest. I did just that, dozing off the moment I entered the car. We reached Ayah and Mak's place at 1:30 a.m. I did not get to see Ayah though as he arrived home from a meeting with Ayah Soh in Ayer Keroh slightly later. Then, he left for his oil palm plantation in Kerayong early in the morning.

He reached Rembau again at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, in time for a chat over tea. "I think it is better for you to drive the Kelisa." He continued, "albeit it being a second-hand car, the servicing procedure is easier compared to Peugeot."

Ayah bought the second-hand Kelisa for Mak when I passed my Kancil to Cajib and borrowed her Peugeot 405 for Parliamentary duties. I personally prefer Kelisa over that Peugeot for its easy maintenance. So, I jumped at Ayah's offer. Heh, I do not know the level of my excitement when I get my dream car as I am beyond happy with this catch.

Happy thoughts, Monday bliss.

Modul Penempatan Daerah

I was once an English teacher in Serting and Kuala Pilah was not foreign to me as I passed by the district on the way back to Rembau every Friday afternoon. Never had I thought of spending ten memorable days there.

I missed the District Placement Module in Kelantan during the Public Management Diploma course six months ago as I was unwell. When Imran, my friend who is now the officer in Public Management Diploma Unit, called to know whether I could participate in this year's module, I jumped at the opportunity. Despite the ceaseless work in the office, I had to go for the sake of service confirmation. There were five of us from batch 1/2005.

160 of Administrative and Diplomatic Officers from batch 2/2005 were divided into two. One group was sent to Kuala Pilah, while another to Jelebu. The other districts involved will be Rembau and Tampin. I joined the batch destined for Kuala Pilah.

Mukim Terachi received 12 foster children. I, together with Inor, were sent to Kampung Lanjut Manis. My foster father rode his motorcycle to the officiating ceremony in Kuala Pilah Multipurpose Hall, therefore, he asked for another family's favour to bring me to his house. Although he is the Head of Kampung Lanjut Manis cum Head of Jawatankuasa Kemajuan dan Keselamatan Kampung Kuala Parit, I was surprised that Inor's foster family had to drive me way far from the main road.

I almost cried as Maxis coverage was non-existent most of the time. Yet, I did not manage to buy a Celcom card due to hectic schedule at work. I actually cried when I discovered that there was no water supply, which continued for three consecutive days, due to repair works. I cried because I was severely missing Kamal, too. Anyway, I am thankful that my foster parents have been very wonderful. So had their visiting children. They cared for me as though I was their own. I am still touched. Thank you.

There were lots of work to be done, anyway. District Development Report and Village Projects. Not to forget, the daily report to be written in the log book. There was also a discussion regarding the projects with heads of villages in Balai Raya Kampung Padang Lebar. In tow then were a gotong-royong in Kampung Mampas and Kampung Padang Lebar, a motivational talk in Kampung Gemetir, a religious talk in Kampung Talang Tengah, and a Majlis Berandoi in Kampung Ayer Itam. A religious talk in Masjid Kampung Pauh ended the list.

The Terachians, as we called ourselves, had booked a van from Masjid Kariah Kampung Pauh to move around. The van was actually meant for funeral service, but it was bigger than the previous mini multi-purpose vehicle we first borrowed from one of the foster parents. Oh, how it struggled to move along the hilly terrain of Kampung Ibol as we sent Zaffwan.

There were other fun experiences. During the gotong-royong in Kampung Mampas, I had my first taste of cooking Gulai Kawah. Afterward, for a gotong-royong in Kampung Padang Lebar, I wish I had the cheerful pictures of Sai, Sham, and I cleaning glass doors of the surau. Ulu Bendul was nearby, so, we had a picnic there on Sunday. Sai and Inor, being influenced by their Negri stint, prepared Cili Padi Sandwich.

The second Monday of the Module. Our mutual project: the religious talk in Masjid Kampung Pauh. After a trip to the Youths and Sports Division, Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (RISDA), and the Kuala Pilah District Office in the morning, we gathered at Kak Riza's place to cook for the jemaah. Once Saiful has compiled the photos from all the cameras, I will post a photo of us preparing Sambal Gesek Kundang, with me being given the biggest lesung and alu of all.

At the mosque that evening, there was a little incident in the dining area as the ladies were arranging food on the buffet table. I felt a sharp object slightly below my right ankle. When I looked down, there was a very huge centipede. I was calm nevertheless, so I quickly alerted others of its presence. Minutes later, there was a pricking pain on my right foot. Even though the pain was not severe, I was advised to go to the clinic. The Clinic Assistant on duty confirmed that I have been stung. A jab for me. It caused sleepiness, yet I was able to enjoy the sumptuous Daging Salai dan Bacang Muda Masak Lemak Cili Api, Ikan Sembilang Berlada, and Sambal Gesek Kundang. The last item received praises from the villagers. We helped to wash the dirty dishes afterwards. I was glad to be able to lend my hand although others said I looked pale. Later, too tired, instead of going back all the way to Kampung Lanjut Manis, I decided to sleep at Kak Riza's place, accompanied by Inor.

For my District Placement Report, I interviewed a young entrepreneur in the cow breeding business. It was my first time visiting a barn. Oh, I went there by lorry. Oh, the excitement. He also processed cow skin as a side income. An insightful session.

On the second last day of the District Placement, we visited Istana Lama Sri Menanti. Kak Riza, Saiful, Inor, Sai, Saffwan, and I wished that we could return there again after the module was over. Mukim Terachi was a place where we learned more about ourselves. Mostly, we learned about fellow Malaysians' cultures.

The closing ceremony was held at the multipurpose hall in Kuala Pilah. My foster mother, whom I fondly called Mak Cik, hugged me a little longer. She even kissed my cheeks. I think she cooks the best Masak Lemak Cili Padi. Humaira, her granddaughter, came the evening before to say goodbye. She celebrated her birthday with me, too. Oh, The Terachians will visit the place again, definitely.

After our presentations in Seri Malaysia Port Dickson on Friday, we went back to INTAN Bukit Kiara, where I had a final chat with Sai, Inor, and Kak Riza. I miss them, as well as the other Terachians, already. I miss the friendship. I miss the memories.

Yang Menemani Malamku di Mukim Terachi

Tentunya madah romantis Kamal. Heh.

The District Placement Module, which I missed for being unwell during the six-month Public Management Diploma course, is an unforgettable experience as I got to know more of brothers and sisters from the administration and diplomatic service. Then, there were my foster parents and the people of Terachi, who made everybody feel at home. Nonetheless, I missed Kamal.

After an escapade the day before, he texted me this.

Having breakfast alone, and I am feeling the pangs of being away from you. Nevertheless, in truth, you are always next to me. Mwahs. Loving you.

And this.

Hi sayang, I pun rindu you juga. Lagi rindu, lagi kita kena sabar. Lagi kita balik ke diri. Hugs and kisses.

Which made it hard to not to cry. Oh well, I did cry a little on the first night in Kampung Lanjut Manis as I missed him, severely.

This cheered me up though:

Andai kau dapat melihat hatiku
Betapa ruang jiwaku
Penuh bayangan dirimu
Menghiasi hari-hariku
Senyum dan suaramu
Teduhkan jiwaku
Cintailah aku dengan kesungguhanmu

Terimalah madah sepi pagiku
Yang mencoretkan apa yang terbuku

Nanti ingatkan aku untuk potong kuku
Madah melalut jangan berbulu ;)

As I was typing my assignment, I received this at 12:15 a.m. as he was about to sleep.

Absence certainly makes my heart grow fonder. But, it is hard. It is really, really hard, to be away from each other for so long. Missing you so much. Can't stop thinking about the sweetness of being together in your embrace. Love you, my darling Sha. Mwah!

And this as I was on my way to Kuala Pilah District Office at 8:50 a.m.

About to leave for office. Looking at your picture and missing you tonnes. Missing your hugs and embraces and kisses and gentle whispers. I love you so dearly. Mwah!

We were counting days.

Good night, sayang. I am missing your presence. Not much fun without you near me. Five more nights to go, my love. Mwahs!

As Maxis coverage was poor in Terachi, I was the one to call first whenever a single bar appeared on the telephone screen. There was a night of silence as I had to sleep in a very remote village. The next day, I received his text. The time was 12:21 a.m.

Sha sayang. Will I fall asleep tonight without listening to your sweet voice? It was a nice surprise last night when you called. I wish I was not that sleepy.

His attempt at Malay love note certainly put a broad smile on my face. He is so sweet.

Sebuah madah cinta
Buat isteri jelita
Yang jauh di mata
Dalam hati bagai permata
Merindui setiap kata
Janji diberi tetap dikota
SMS kasih tetap ditinta

There were more, but I will keep them in my heart ;)

"Isteri bukanlah hakmilik, tapi anugerah."

Bak kata Rahim Razali dalam Cinta.

She has just came back from a two-week Modul Penempatan Daerah in Kuala Pilah. I was supposed to keep her blog updated, but you know me. I have many other blogs left unupdated. :)

But the main thing is, she is back now. And we have many things to catch up with.