tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-173240522024-03-08T07:21:42.882+08:00Collin Ng's Blog'TOCK KONG' is a local Hokkien slang which means 'Awesome'. I welcome genuine comment/s here, for or against but will reject derogatory or racist comments right away.Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.comBlogger303125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-76582023144601927882018-12-31T11:27:00.000+08:002018-12-31T11:27:02.780+08:00Summary of 2018 <br />
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It is my last entry of the year. Has 2018 been a good year for me? Well, it has been a so-so year with nothing much to shout about. We kick-started the year with our signature event, Run For Light which went well. We were then engaged to manage two run events, Narpani Run and The RAD Race which ended well too. Other key events like 3Ten Run and Urban Aquathlon were staged well though sign up number did not meet our expectation. Event scene in Singapore is getting tougher each year. <br />
On personal well being, I must admit I have been too laid back and save for periodic running, I practically don't do other form of exercises. Noticeably, waistline has expanded somewhat and inevitably, few dreadful kgs are added too. Yep, I must be watchful and jolly well buck up come the new year. Health is wealth, nothing else matters. <br />
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What's in store for 2019? As usual, we will fire up the year with our Run For Light event in January and already, we are in our final preparation stage. We are raring to go and it will be a blast, I am sure. Other than the event frontier, I have committed to another new business venture in bid to bolster income. <br />
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Not wanting to set high expectation for 2019, I just hope and pray everything will fall in nicely. Year 2019, bring it on, I am ready for you!Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-86133089581769016312018-12-08T11:15:00.000+08:002018-12-08T11:22:48.514+08:00Unreasonable Older Brother<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In Malay language, the older sibling in a family is respectfully addressed as 'abang' and the younger one is 'adik. This is how it begins when abang and adik were once one big happy family. Both brothers have grown up and adik decided to have his own family. They went separate ways. Adik settled for a smaller piece of the pie while his abang has the rest. Among siblings and understandably too, they are always some arguments but each time, adik gave in because he advocates 'prosper-thy-neighbour' policy. For the longest time, adik still has to depend on his abang's vast natural resources for some essentials to survive. From time-to-time, wherever abang is not happy (or jealous with the rapid rise of adik's fortune), he will threaten to cut the essential supply. Fortunately, this has remained a verbal threat which did not escalate to something catastrophic. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On the surface, abang and adik still remain very cordial to each other but recent development seems to suggest otherwise when the last patriarch<span style="background-color: white;"> in abang's family was forced out by one sickening old patriarch. This old patriarch has never been nice to adik when he was in-charge of the household and with his return, he brought with him old baggage. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">While abang family under that old (new) patriarch has yet to fully settle down with their own domestic issues, he decided to up the ante on his adik. This time, he is playing with fire. For no rhyme or reason, he decided to park some of this toys at adik's place. Adik has been exercising much restraint by asking his abang to remove his toys. However, abang does not seem to relent. This time is toys but one cannot discount abang putting real weapons next to test the patience of his adik. Adik may have a smaller household but when it is too much to handle, adik may be forced to respond and consequences for both sides can be severe. This is not the end of the story yet. The stand-off still continues. The stakes are high for both sides and adik is still urging his abang to come to the table for an amicable settlement. If common sense still prevails, it is hoped abang will not push his adik to the point of no return. Not withstanding, I still see light at the end of the horizon. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One people, One Nation, One Singapore!</span></span>Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-78770856159757875302018-01-14T11:50:00.003+08:002018-01-14T19:37:15.931+08:00The Two Pioneering Resorts in Batam<br />
It was still in the late 80s, I joined some of my friends to spend a short vacation in Batam. Then, there were two resorts, namely Batam View Beach Resort and Turi Beach Beach Resort.. Both were quite pricey then, given there were not many good class resorts in the region and Bintan had yet to be developed as a tourist destination. If I can remember well, a room night stay could have easily cost us around S$200 and it was in the late 80s where our wages were much lower then and competition was definitely less intense. Batam View and Turi Beach were the only two good class resorts in the Nongsa area. Finally, we chose Turi Beach, attracted by their standalone rustic wooden villas which has since been totally transformed into modern concrete blocks. Batam View is a 5-storey building block which has commanding view of the South China Sea. During our stay, we went to Batam View Beach Resort for their discotheque at the basement. It was quite an in-thing and I remember it was packed to the brink. <br />
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To get there, we had to travel by fast ferry from the then World Trade Centre Ferry Terminal to Sekupang Ferry Terminal. The ride took us less than an hour and on arrival, we had to take a long coach ride. Sekupang Ferry Terminal is located in the western side of the island and Turi Beach, together with Batam View Beach Resort are located in the north eastern region which is known as Nongsa. Batam by the way is about two third the size of Singapore. The coach ride will take us about 40 minutes. With Nongsapura Ferry Terminal set up in the mid 90s, tourists can now depart from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal and on arrival, less than 10 minutes by car to reach their hotels. Then, it was quite a hassle to get to the beach resorts in Nongsa. Only Batam View and Turi Beach have their own private beaches until today. When Bintan made its foray in the later part of the 90s, the resorts in Batam has taken a heavy beating. From there on, it is basically' survival of the fittest'. <br />
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Given heavy investments from Singapore's big wig companies in Bintan and coupled with promotion support from Singapore Tourism Board, more and more tourists were lured to Bintan. <br />
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Nongsa in the north eastern region of Batam has its own attraction too. The lush greenery and kampong style living in the community remains largely unspoilt. Development in the past years have not been too aggressively pursued vis-a-vis Bintan but it now boosts of international class golf courses, more resorts and even a movie town, among others.<br />
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For the two pioneering resorts, Batam View Beach Resort and Turi Beach Resort, they have definitely weathered whatever 'calamity of sorts' that were thrown at them and to still remain in business, that says something about them. Take a bow, people!Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-39645832843651676442018-01-06T12:50:00.003+08:002018-01-07T10:41:26.955+08:00An Introduction To Batam<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If I can recall my first trip to Batam was either in 1985 or
1986. I was still with KLM based at the
airport. A friend had suggested a
weekend day trip to Batam which was already a ‘talked-about thingy’ in town. One of the main attractions, if not the only
attraction was the chance to purchase duty free items on the return. I had no inkling on how this island so near
Singapore was like and so, I joined the big wave of weekend crowd on one
Sunday. The departure was at Finger
Pier Terminal in Tanjong Pagar. The biggest
ferry operator was Auto Batam (the company has changed few ownerships over the
years and if I am not wrong, it is called Sindo now) and looking at the mad
rush on weekends, they should be doing roaring business. Personally, I will avoid big crowd if I can
help it and I was in for a ‘rude shock’ when I arrived at Clifford Pier. It was so packed like sardines and people
were practically shoving each other to move in.
Granted no other choice, I had to go with the flow. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The ferry terminal in Batam was in Sekupang. The other ferry terminal was called Batu Ampar
Ferry Terminal which is now replaced by HarbourBay Terminal in Jodoh. Both these two nondescript terminals were notorious
for its touting activities. Tourists
were harassed the moment they stepped out of the terminals. It can be frightening. We were spared as we travelled in groups and
guides were there to handle for us. It
was still like a noisy affair at the terminal.
The long rows of coaches at the terminal well explained the huge crowd
on any given weekend day trip to Batam. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Once we had settled on the coach, our guide will start the
usual introduction to us. We were
brought to this famous ‘Tua Pek Kong’ temple and we were told many had struck
4-D while praying for good luck there.
In the 80s’, Singaporeans had already started ‘the kiasu’ syndrome and
many will ‘chiong’ to be among first to offer prayers. I just explored around the premises and be amused. ‘Tua Pek Kong’ temple visit still remains one
of the must go places in the tour program.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Another interesting must go place was at a road junction (I
cannot remember the name of the road) which stood out as the one and only traffic
light in the whole of Batam. Nothing
spectacular about it for it was just like another traffic light we get to see
everywhere. Because it was the one and only
traffic light there, it became a ‘showcase’ to urbanized folks like us. Laughable, right?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">But there was one place that I was hoping to visit which was
the much-talked about radio station on the island. ZOO 101.6 was creating big wave when they
went 24/7. Then, our radio channels did
not run 24/7. People were tuning in on ZOO
101.6 and not long later, our local radio stations had to up the ante by going 24/7
too. When we arrived, it was a small
building block. We were shown where the gregarious
deejays were at work. Yes, ZOO 101.6 did
cause an uproar on the radio wave then. Sadly,
nobody talks about ZOO 101.6 anymore. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We had our seafood lunch ala ‘tourist style’ in between our
tour. When we were at Sekupang Ferry
Terminal for journey back, it was another ‘exhilarating’ experience. People were rushing to buy liquor and
cigarettes at the terminal as if it was free.
Well, that was the main purpose why most made this ‘hard-earned’ trip. As for me, I bought none of it. The terminal was also packed with people and
this time, with loads of duty-free items.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">However, this travel phenomenon did not last very long. Our super effective ‘chenghu’ were quick to tighten the loose
knot by changing rules on duty free import from Batam. As fast it had happened, the weekend craze quickly
fizzled out too. Now, people do not go to
Batam just for duty-free items and Batam has more to offer too. I will cover this in my subsequent articles
which will come in few parts. Stay tuned,
people! </span><o:p></o:p></div>
Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-51734699092081428142018-01-01T13:38:00.002+08:002018-01-01T18:15:22.446+08:00My Childhood Friends <br />
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Life was very simple when growing up in the 60s. Our house was a no-frills type that came with no rooms and the common corridor was shared by rows of other households. Our family of seven somehow managed to squeeze into this tiny house. Our door was always open and so too for some of our neighbours. As kids, the common corridor was our playground. We chased after each other, we shouted at the top of our voice, we played 'masak masak' with the girls and we even managed to cycle along the narrow corridor without major collision. Yep, some adults did not like our noise decibels and we were sometimes chased away.<br />
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Dialects like Hokkien and Cantonese were commonly spoken and 'cursing' from the grown-ups was a common thingy. We spoke Cantonese at home though we are Hokkien. Communication with the other children was mostly in Hokkien too.<br />
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I have had few childhood friends but we have lost contact completely when we moved out in the late 70s. I was already a teenager by then. Tong lived next door to us. They are Teochew and both his parents spoke Teochew to us. I think I picked up smattering Teochew from them. Tong is one year older than me. He was good in sports and he was also quite good in his studies too. I heard he is a teacher now. I was just an average Joe in everything. Sometimes, he will 'jio' me to play basketball in his house. Yes, in his tiny house. He will use wire mess to carve out a net and secured at the corner of the door. The ball is the hard plastic type which was best for football than for basketball. It was a miracle that the neighbour who lived directly below had never complained the running and the bouncing of ball from above. Somehow, we got away scot-free each time. 😄<br />
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Liang Heng lived a door away from Tong's family. He has few siblings and he is the second in the family. I was closer to him than his other siblings as our age gap is quite close. Like Tong, Liang Heng is one year older than me. Liang Heng is always taller and bigger than me. Not quite the studious type like Tong but we enjoyed each other company too. I remember Liang Heng has muscular legs that I hoped I can own his pair of legs. We played high jump using bamboo pole. We also played football in the playground with other kids after school. Skill-wise, we were quite equal. In short, we were never the skillful type of players lah. Sometimes, our ball will go into this household nearest to the playground. One of us will have to pick up the ball but each time, we had a lashing from the house owner. Not to be deterred, we still continued to play at the playground and the 'lashing' too. 😉 <br />
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Chye has an older brother and sister and his widowed mother raised them up single-handedly. Chye is of the same age as me and we can click well. We used to emulate 'kung-fu' moves in slow motion. He will hit me and I will return the blow back but all in slow motion. Ya, Bruce Lee was a big thing for us then. In fact, Chye and I met again some years later. We were posted to the same army camp but different companies though. When we met, we can only muster few words to each other and never stay connected again. The 'brotherly sparks' in us just didn't take off. Years later, I heard from my mother that he has some mental issues. I hope he is alright now.<br />
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Of all my childhood pals, Pok Meng was probably my best buddy but it was short-lived only. We are of the same age too. He is a Hainanese and he has a younger brother called Pok Kok. His mother and my mother got on well initially. I remember we used to catch houseflies near the rubbish bin area. We drifted apart when our mothers had a big quarrel that almost came to blows. Over what? I really don't know. Since then, they were always locked at home and not long later, they moved out. I was still in primary school. 😔 <br />
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Now we are already in our mid-50s and more and I hope they are living well. Some could have become grandparents, I believe. Looking back, we were not rich but we do have our happy moments growing up with the simplest of things we got to enjoy then.Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-79827617064123478262017-12-31T16:24:00.003+08:002017-12-31T19:04:48.327+08:00My Summary of 2017<br />
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It is the last post that reflects on year 2017 before the clock strikes past midnight. How has year 2017 been for me? First off and with slight tinge of disappointment, some lofty targets set for the early part of the year were missed as we inched forward. There was an ambitious plan to partner someone to launch a business proposal which I thought was was quite unique and definitely one of its kind here but the investors 'did not bite' despite our best presentation effort put forth. Thus, the business idea has to put on back burner for now. 😞<br />
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On the event front, our signature run events like Run For Light and Urban Aquathlon were successfully launched. While the bottomline was nothing to gloat about but I enjoyed the whole process for both events. Run For Light and Urban Aquathlon will continue to be featured in year 2018 and of course, I am hoping for a better outing this time. Though we initiated OCC 3Ten Run in 2015 but we decided not to co-own the event which eventually went back to OCC. However, we still managed OCC 3Ten Run 2017 for them as event organiser. At least we do not have to worry about number and still get paid for it.<br />
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Perhaps I derived more pleasure and satisfaction from the few team building events I conducted for few companies. The earning was also not that bad either. Had I started to venture into team building years ago, things could be different for me now I did wonder to myself. 😄<br />
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The biggest surprise I received for the year is to get re-connected with a dear friend after more than one decade. A surprise 'hello' email from this friend suddenly appeared on my laptop did get me thinking momentarily that this could be a spam mail. Fortunately, it was not. Yes, we have plenty of catching up to do now. 😃<br />
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What will year 2018 be like? Admittedly, I am not getting younger anymore and some friends think I am going easy. On the contrary, I am not slowing down and at this age, I am still hoping for a breakthrough in the few things I am doing. Retirement to me means 'it's the end'. As long as I am still healthy and alert, I will continue to find something to do even going into my 70s or beyond. In short, I can ill-afford to retire. I hope the few events that we have lined for 2018 will take us to the next level. Is 2018 going to be a good year? Yes, it is going to be one heck of a year but I have to work hard for it. Year 2018, bring it on! 💪💪💪<br />
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<br />Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-56697805727412281952017-03-20T16:36:00.001+08:002017-03-20T16:36:19.741+08:008th Edition of Cycle Cruise On Superstar Libra - 10 to 15 March 2017<br />
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<i>Group pic on first day of ride in Balik Pulau </i></div>
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Time really flies and this was to be our 8th edition of our cycle cruise since our maiden trip in October 2013. This time our adventure took us to Penang, Krabi and Phuket. In our previous trips, we visited Penang and Phuket at least twice and Krabi was our first. This trip was scheduled on 10 March where we flew with Silkair to Penang, cycled for 2 days and then joined Superstar Libra which will take us to sunny Krabi and Phuket to continue our cycling adventure. <br />
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<i>Beaten track with padi fields in between and mountains from a distance in Balik Pulau </i></div>
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We were supposed to have 32 of us including me as the tour leader but one had suddenly taken ill, thus 31 of us at last count. There were few familiar faces in this trip. Michelle and Aaron who did twice with us, Philip and his wife who did thrice and this time, they brought their younger daughter, Amanda along, Ronald, his wife and daughter, Josslin joining second time too. Regular outdoor kakis of mine, power couple Tan & Jane and dainty Fenny were on this trip to keep me company throughout. Among the group, we had a group of 7 fun seeking men who are cycling buddies, 2 lovely sisters in Deirde & Deryne, a father & son team and 3 gregarious nurses. There were also 5 bloggers who were arranged by Star Cruises to shout out through their social media platforms as much as possible. Alas, Xuejing who had been doing the planning since our inception trip did not follow this time and the responsibility fell squarely on me 😓 😓😓.<br />
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For the first time, Penang cycling tour specialist from Mata Hari led by SJ mapped out the cycling routes and also provided ground support throughout the expedition. Save for Michelle and Aaron who brought their own bikes, the rest of us just rented mountain bikes from Mata Hari. <br />
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Our flight to Penang touched down at about 1130 hrs and by the time, we cleared immigration and customs, it was near 1300 hrs. SJ and his team were already there to meet us. Soon, we were transported to Balik Pulau for our first ride in Penang. Our previous rides in Penang were in the heart of busy George Town but this time, it was a completely different cycling experience. Balik Pulau is located in the rustic southwestern region of Penang island. It was an easy ride where we cycled past padi fields, streams, Malay kampungs and Chinese fishing village with the mountains in full sight. Easy ride aside, this ride also enabled the support team to identify those who will need help in our subsequent rides which can be challenging. We ended our half day ride in a goat farm before being transported to Equatorial Hotel for a good night rest 😄😄😄. <br />
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<i>Goat farm in Balik Pulau</i></div>
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Day two of our ride will take us to Mount Jerai in Kedah state, typically it will take some 1 and a half hour drive from Penang but our coach captain somehow took us on a longer ride 😒😒😒. Mount Jerai stands at 1,217 metres high and from the foot of the mountain to the summit, the distance is some 11 km. To ride all the way up to the summit, one has to be a heck of a hardcore cyclist. SJ called this mountain, 'a beast' to psych us before our roll-off. We did not start our ride from the foot of the mountain but started some 20 km away where we had a fairly nice ride before commencing our climb. I knew at some point during the climb, I will sustain cramp due to lack of cycling mileage and I was right. Admittedly, the weather was hot as we started our ride at near noon time. Local cyclists would have started very early in the morning before sun rises. Our support team made sure there were many stops for us to be hydrated. There were few who were already struggling at the start and had to give up at some point. Everyone was constantly reminded to keep hydrated throughout. When we gathered at the foot of the mountain to commence our climb, we were briefed there was a break at every 3 km where we can decide to stop. True to our Singaporeans' 'kiasu' spirit 😉, majority decided to give it a go. It was one heck of a tough climb I must admit. Many decided to stop after 3 km climb and rest of us including me stopped after 6 km. After that, we took the van up to the summit to have our afternoon hi-tea. The view at the summit was covered by cloud, otherwise it offers magnificent view of the padi fields and the town on any given day. We then headed to George Town for a good rest. <br />
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<i>Group picture before taking the climb at Mount Jerai</i></div>
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There was no ride on day three, Sunday as we were to board Superstar Libra in the afternoon. Morning was spent roaming the town with Tan and Jane. At about 1400 hrs, after checking out from Royal Bintang, we took a short walk to Sweetenham Pier to join the cruise. By 1500 hrs, everyone was already on board Superstar Libra and own leisure program followed. Jason, the journalist from a Chinese media and Lacey, one of Star Cruises' sales managers will join us for our ride in Thailand. <br />
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<i>At the summit of Mt Jerai </i></div>
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Day four - the ship arrived in Krabi at about 1000 hrs. As disembarkation was by tender boat, our bikes had to be physically carried to the boat by our support team and ship crew first. The boat ride to the terminal took some half an hour and I was already feeling the searing heat of the sun. It will be one hot ride I thought to myself. On arrival, we were met by the Thai support team from Eco Ride. We rolled off at about 1100 hrs. The route was fairly rolling with highest climb at 132 metres only. It was a big loop covering some 45 km with lunch stop at the famous Ao Nang Beach. Save for the hot weather, the ride was easy for everyone and traffic was light. We rode past hills and some villages, an idyllic sight. By 1600 hrs, we reached the jetty safely. We bade farewell to our Thai support crew before returning to the tender boat for Superstar Libra 😊😊😊. As a reward to all, we have had gala dinner at Four Season later in the evening. <br />
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<i>Huffed and puffed up the slope in Phuket</i></div>
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Day five - we arrived in Phuket at around noon time. If Krabi was hot at 1000 hrs, it was even hotter in Phuket at noon time. Just like Krabi, we had to take the tender boat to go shore but the ride was shorter, about 15 mins. Again, bikes had to be loaded onto the tender boat before we could embark. We had cycled in Phuket on two previous occasions and everyone had been made aware that it was going to be rolling throughout. Our ride will start in the popular Patong Beach. Traffic was heavy at Patong Beach. It was near noon time when we were ready to roll off. This time there were 23 of us plus 5 support crew from Team Mata Hari. Since we had the whole day till midnight, the rest preferred to spend the leisure time instead of cycling in Phuket. Perhaps, the expected tough terrain did play a part too 😏😏😏. The ride took us to Karon Beach on the east coast heading south. We rode past Kata Bay which offered one of the best scenic spots but at the same time, we had to manage climb after climb with the steepest climb at 193 metres being the highest point. Many had to push the bikes. It was heartening to see Ronald's wife, Mrs Yeo who is a leisure cyclist puffed and huffed up the rolling terrain. Philip's daughter, Amanda is another fighter. Giving up was never her motto, she just pressed on slowly but surely. SJ team did a marvellous job covering the front and back. Even at every turn, there was a marshal to usher the cyclists through so that no one was left behind. They even helped to push some cyclists on the climb. I was impressed I must admit. We stopped briefly at Rawa Beach and took a less steeper road back to Patong Beach. We were a little concerned of returning after last light, given we were behind our planned scheduled. Fortunately, when we arrived back, it was around 1930 hrs which was not completely dark. We gave three loud cheers to Team Mata Hari before we dispersed. It was a challenging ride, some 45 km but definitely a good one. <br />
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<i>Group pic in Patong Beach before rolling off</i></div>
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Day six, while still on board Superstar Libra on way back to Penang, the Hotel Manager helped to present nice completion certificates to all the participants. In one of our lighthearted moment while waiting to disembark, some of the guys were sharing their own personal encounters during the ride. One of the guys from this group of 7 who is affectionately called <span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;">老</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;">大 ('big brother') for his seniority finally confessed that he was 'conned' by his friends to join. He is not a regular cyclist, in fact he was not familiar with the gear system of the bicycle and had been struggling to keep pace throughout. He thought it was like another ride in East Coast Park but he soon realised too late, he was 'tricked' into it. He didn't have a proper shoes for cycling until his son reminded him. We certainly had a good laugh at his 'misery' but he took it in his own stride. Another in the same group of 7, Mark did confess he is a roadie and therefore, found it hard riding on mountain bike where pace was too slow for his 'liking'. He will always come to me and asked when are we going back to hotel which actually puzzled me, I must say. </span><br />
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<i>View of Karon Beach from the top</i></div>
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When the ship came alongside the port at about noon time, we were transferred to Queensbay Mall to spend the afternoon lazing around before heading to the airport for flight home in the evening. On touching down at Changi Airport, someone I hoped to see at the airport was there to meet me. Home sweet home! <br />
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<i>The four of us at the summit of Mount Jerai</i></div>
Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-61056328365083273972017-02-26T14:39:00.001+08:002017-02-27T09:34:04.888+08:00Army Mobilisation Exercise In The Early Years<br />
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Nowadays sensation news, be it real or fake will reach to the masses almost in an instance, all thanks to the availability of social media platforms. In the early years where the masses relied heavily on mainstream media for news feed and it means receiving it one day later at the earliest. <br />
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How did we manage army mobilisation exercise in the 80s where even pager had yet to make an entrant to the communication sphere? If I can remember well, there were two types of mobilisation, one is the 'silent mobilisation' and the other is 'open mobilisation'. Silent mobilisation posed the biggest challenge to recall personnel back, given the tight time frame and the contrary, activating open mobilisation was rendered much easier. The latter required a core team comprising person overall in-charge to second in-charge, to third in-charge, so on & so forth. The I/Cs will be given a list of people's contacts to get in touch with once the recall was activated. For open mobilisation, the code names of the affected units will appear on national TV and also broad casted via radio stations. Once the personnel got the recall activation on TV or radio, they will then head back to their respective units to be accounted for. <br />
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I remember I was the second or third I/C for my group. During our active days, we were activated in a silent mob. The I/C before me will come to my house and then handed a list of contacts staying within 5 km radius of my place. We will then list down the contact details among ourselves and went on with our given tasks. We had to do so within few hours time frame and when the visiting task was done, we will don our number four uniform and headed back to our unit for reporting. I remember I went on foot to the residence of each of the recall personnel to hand them the activation notice. If the person was not at home, someone from the house will have to acknowledge it. I think I was given some 20 contacts to get in touch with. I can't help feeling trepidation of sorts in bid to complete the task within the given time frame. Pager was still not developed yet, let alone smart phone of the present and our means of communication was very much dependent on land line. In the absence of mobile phone and Internet, we can still take comfort that majority of the personnel can still be contacted and made it back to camp in time. This silent exercise was even activated when we were reservists. During our time, we had to do few silent mobilisation including one or two open mobilisation<br />
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I now wonder how silent mobilisation is executed in present days. Does silent mob using the old method still apply? I think creating chat group on FB should suffice unless MINDEF feels it is unsafe to do so. 😏😏😏Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-1533734084360222722016-12-31T11:02:00.002+08:002016-12-31T13:19:13.409+08:00Summary of 2016<span style="font-size: large;">I have not been posting many articles on my blog for the entire year of 2016. Yes, I have been too laid back I have to admit 😏. However, no matter how laid back I can be over the one long year, I will always make it a point to post my last entry of the year before the clock strikes past midnight...yes, that is the ritual of sorts for me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Looking back at 2016. The few milestones that I can be proud of should be the Compressport Rail Corridor Run in January and the blueseventy Aquathlon event at Orchid Country Club in July this year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">On Compressport Rail Corridor Run, we were hoping to get 5,000 runners in our inaugural event - our collaboration with Compressport. Boy, as we shouted more and especially the news from the authority announcing the closure of the green corridor belt for three years due to pipe laying project, we were able to capitalise on it by telling the running community that ours will be the last rail corridor race. The sign up simply took off like a rocket from there on. At long last, we were able to garner about 7,500 runners. In fact the overspill helped a rival event much to our displeasure somewhat 😠. It was also my first as race announcer entertaining some 7,000 runners who were waiting eagerly to be flagged off. I really got a high doing that, truly enjoyed the electrifying atmosphere then.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another outdoor event that I enjoyed most was the inaugural blueseventy Aquathlon event at Orchid Country Club though monetary gain came to naught. Admittedly, turnout was not to our expectation owing to clash of a similar event on same day. We had less than 400 but the whole experience was unique for the participants as well as for us, the organisers. It was our first managing the swim leg where each swimmer took the plunge into the pool at every 10 seconds interval and boy, it turned out well. It was a personal project with Pekya and in collaboration with blueseventy, our sponsor.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If there is one event I didn't enjoy a bit in 2016, it should be the iWheel For Fun event 👎. I actually lost interest in the event midway through it; more to do with personality clash with some and I was even prepared to drop it completely had it not for my partner who was persistent all the way - thanks to him actually. Notwithstanding, we bite the bullet to make sure the event went on without hitches and after that, I just want to put all this saga behind. Not my kind of event I must say 😅 .</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The second edition for OCC 3Ten Run in September this year was another challenging one for us. Unique because the run was in the golf course but somehow, it just didn't get the hype from the running community. We tried hard, really hard to promote it and the run event went on and ended well too. The laying of the plywood over the drain that covers some 4 km within the golf course was a nightmarish experience. I went back home at about 3 am in the morning after the event, took my 'so called dinner' at the 24-hour McDonald's near home. Event organiser like us never had it easy sometimes; rather most of the times. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In between, I have had the opportunity to facilitate some corporate events like Munich Re, Canon Singapore and Hard Rock Cafe. In fact, Munich Re is my repeat client. I must be good, right? If I don't measure up, they won't want me to facilitate the second time, right? Hmm, I am not humble leh, lavishing praises on my own. This time I brought the whole team on a cruise vessel and made them swim, run, make up cabin and set up dining table including their CEO 😀 . Importantly, they had a good time onboard....I win liao lor!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Many friends have predicted 2017 to be one challenging year especially with twitter king, Donald Trump in-charge of the sole superpower. Dangerous situation if handled badly but guess, everyone is in if it has to happen. On the contrary, I am looking forward to 2017 with positive hope for some of our events planned for the year. For starter, we will have our Run For Light 2017 happening on 14 Jan at the iconic Gardens By The Bay. It is also our first where we will attempt to break the Guinness World Records for the largest resistance band demonstration on the event day. Wish us luck, people! Happy New Year to all!!!</span><br />
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Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-35318201315875812262016-08-06T14:20:00.001+08:002016-08-06T14:20:12.431+08:00Singapore's National Day<br />
Wow, this is my first post for 2016 and since it is 3 days before our national day, I will write something that relates to our national day (I'll try as I really do not have any specific subject to talk about). <br />
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Last year was SG50 and it was celebrated in a big way, given it was our golden jubilee celebration. Alas, the demise of LKY who was at every of our NDP but sadly, he could not celebrate SG50 with us. This year is SG51 and the celebration may be scaled down compared to last year, I can still feel the NDP mood among us. Just few days ago, we organised a walk event for Canon Singapore with SG51 celebration in mind too. The plan was to end the event with a national day song, Count On Me, Singapore to be sang by all. There was no rehearsal and we just have to sing along which was led by one senior Canon employee. I immediately felt the patriotism in me when the song was played. I jumped on the stage and sang my heart out. I don't sing well but at the spur of moment, I just sang as if there was no tomorrow. On the floor, there were non Singaporeans too. The Canon CEO is a Japanese and she was on stage singing along with the rest of us. With lyrics on hand, they sang along with us. This national day celebration is not just meant for Singaporeans too, it is also our show of appreciation to the foreigners who live and work here. I am proud to be a Singaporean. Happy birthday, Singapore!Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-10436490467787669012015-12-31T20:44:00.001+08:002015-12-31T20:44:23.650+08:00Summary For 2015<br />
This is my last posting for 2015 and typical of me, I will do it on the eve of the New Year before the clock strikes past midnight going into 2016. My Chinese horoscope has indicated 2015 will be a good year for those born in the year of the tiger and, phew...I am among them. No, I am not the superstitious type in case some think I am but 2015 on whole has proven to be not too bad a year for me. That said, Chinese horoscope has indicated 2016 will not be that smooth sailing for those who were born in the tiger year. Notwithstanding, I believe in working hard, be truthful to ourselves and to others and it does not matter what one's horoscope says. <br />
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When I decided to leave my comfort zone more than 3 years ago, where I used to draw a decent pay, I was already contemplating to go into organising outdoor event or training related stuff. Some concerned friends did advise against leaving my comfort zone to go into uncharted territory especially I am not that young anymore. Yep, it was a risk I was prepared to take. I have to budget everything in the past few years and only spent when it was necessary. Stable income aside, I realised I am happier doing things I enjoy. I did some freelance works, organised some outdoor trips and fortunately, I still managed to get by. Most importantly, I do not have to resort to borrowing from friends or relatives. <br />
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I did tell some friends that I was keen to realise a run event for the masses. Well, by some stroke of luck, I managed to get connected to some friends and our first run event, Run For Light was finally launched in January 2015. Admittedly, it was tough as there were just too many run events in Singapore. We went on to launch a cycle event called 'Casio Nongsa Cycle 2015' the first half of the year and one more run event, 'OCC 3Ten Run' in December. Indeed, it was a learning curve for new players like us. I am not sure the good year for those who are born in the Tiger year mentioned in the horoscope means making good money but the good year to me means I am satisfied that I have managed to fulfill my ambition to have launched outdoor run events in 2015. <br />
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Opportunity does not always happen and I am indeed fortunate that a golden opportunity has come knocking on my doorstep. Yes, I will be embarking on another new career path come 2016. I foresee 2016 is going to be another challenging year ahead but I am prepared to take it on.<br />
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This is to wish everyone a Happy New Year ahead.<br />
Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-9059659518241244512015-12-06T19:22:00.000+08:002015-12-06T19:22:10.607+08:00Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore 2016 (SCMS)<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Group Picture Taken At Ya Kun</i></span></div>
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I have not been running SCMS event in the last two years until Feng messaged me to replace her in this morning Ekiden event under 'Team PainKillers' and I agreed right away since I didn't sign up many run events for this year. There are 6 runners to the team and each of us will have to run 7 km to complete the 42 km distance and passing the sash to another runner when one runner holding the sash has reached the designated checkpoint. In our team, I only know Daniel. On the eve of the event, I managed to be introduced to Norman who will be taking over the sash from me. The order of our relay team was as follows: Daniel will take the first leg, I will be the second runner followed by Norman, Andrew, Max and Raymond.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Picture Taken at Padang</span></i></div>
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I got up this morning at about 0345 hrs and drove to Leisure Mall to catch the shuttle bus which will take the Ekiden runners to their respective start points. My start point was at Singapore Flyer and I had to pass the sash to Norman, the third runner at East Coast Park near Fort Road. The bus left at exactly 0430 hrs and well before 0500 hrs, we arrived at Singapore Flyer. It was still dark but our chat group started to kick-in when Daniel arrived at Orchard Road start point. I estimated more than 50 Eiken runners at my side. When it was past 0500 hrs, one of the marshals informed us that the race had started and we had to gather at our waiting pen. I did a little warming up while waiting. A group of Kenyan runners were the first to run past the 7km mark and they had already pulled a long lead. After them, a local Ekiden runner arrived and that was fast. The second runner quickly took over from him. Not long later, local elite runners and the Kenyan women runners strode past. More faster Ekiden runners started to arrive. One Ekiden runner was (I think) fourth to arrive and he started to shout for his second runner. No response. He shouted at the top of his voice and actually, letting go a little of his frustration, much to the amusement of the rest of us waiting. Poor chap, he did a fast first leg but his second runner was nowhere in sight. <br />
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Some of the waiting runners started to move forward leaving little space for first leg runners to run through and the marshals started to push them back. Stretching out my head to look out for Daniel in the dark and he suddenly appeared before me. It was about 0545 hrs and boy, he was among the early batch to arrive. I quickly took the sash from him and sped off immediately. Adrenalin rush did kick into me as I did not want to lose the good head start given by Daniel. Still fresh, I was soon running past many runners who were doing the full marathon. I did manage to overtake at least 5 Ekiden runners who were ahead of me. For the first 3 km of my 7 km run, I accelerated faster than my usual 5 mins plus per km pace. I reckoned it was 5 mins or little under per km. I then decided to slow down a little to prevent over burning. At about 4 km into my run, I can see the 4 hours pacers from a short distance in front of me. I told myself that I have to catch up on them and slowly but surely, I did. There were two water points along the way but I skipped them all.<br />
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Running past Fort Road cross junction to East Coast Park, I knew it was near to my check point. I accelerated a little faster and from a short distance, I saw a group of Ekiden runners waiting, I started to shout "Painkillers" to catch Norman's attention. When I arrived, he was already waiting. I passed the sash to him for him to carry on. It was already 0620 hours. After a quick dash to the toilet, I decided to walk to Padang instead of waiting for the shuttle bus to pick us back. It was easily more than 5 km back. I was walking in the opposite direction of the runners who were heading to East Coast Park. I was taking my time as it was still very early. Daniel had by then settled at Ya Kun outlet at Funan, tempting rest of us to join him for a hearty breakfast there. While walking along Nicoll Highway, I found a nice Wang Cafe at Suntec and decided to take my breakfast there. Meanwhile, our run progress was updated on our group chat. <br />
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Daniel and I were waiting at Padang for the rest of our team members to join us. The cool morning started to get hotter by the minute. When our last runner, Raymond completed, it was near 0930 hrs and we finally managed to re-group. Our gun time on the app show 4 hours 22 minutes. Good team effort. We then strolled to Ya Kun at Funan to have another round of breakfast before parting way. It is nice to meet new friends and we promised we will run again next year. The target...to clock under 4 hours for 42 km. Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-30848010488498145442015-11-22T14:01:00.001+08:002015-11-22T14:01:24.607+08:00Fright Of My Life <br />
Everyone should have encountered frightening moment at least once in their life. I have had encountered few but I remember two incidents fairly well. <br />
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That year was 1982 and I was still serving NS. It was our hard earned 3 days rest & recreation trip (R&R) in Brisbane city after more than a month of army training in the wilderness. We went to Dream World, it was already a highly developed outdoor entertainment park then. My army mates and I were queuing up to board a boat which will take us through the man-made river and into the man-made safari. At the entrance, there was this big notice warning us that a lion had escaped from the zoo and was on the loose. I happened to read that notice but it didn't bother me. As we were slowly moving, there were crocodiles in the river and some other animals. We knew these were not real. As we went into this man-made cave, it was quite dark and while the boat was gliding through, I saw a moving lion from a distance away. Suddenly, the warning notice that appeared at the entrance struck me hard and for that moment, I thought a lion was really on the loose and it was hiding inside the cave. I thought there was no escape for us as our boat was moving nearer to the lion. I swear I was frightened stiff. All the hair in my body simply shot up. It took me a while to realise that the lion was not real. My army mates had a good laugh at my expense, of course. <br />
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Second incident was in 1985. I was to attend a seminar in Bangkok. On arrival, I made my own way to the hotel which was quite near the airport. It was a nice 5-star hotel but tried, I did, I cannot remember the name of that hotel now. I managed to check-in, got the key and took the lift to my room. When I opened the door, it was pitched dark. First thing first, I had to find the switch to on the light. I couldn't find the switch which was usually near the door. Finally, I managed to switch on the light. I saw a figure standing in front of me. I cannot describe the fear that struck me at the very moment. I thought I saw something I was not supposed to see. Everything happened very fast. When I regained my composure, I realised the figure that I saw was actually my own mirror reflection. There was a big mirror mounted on the wall near the entrance and since it was so dark, I had no idea that there was a mirror in the room. Again, all the hair in my body suddenly shot up. I had a good laugh at myself after that.<br />
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Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-72438031468365571292015-10-25T20:14:00.001+08:002015-10-27T10:33:35.140+08:00My Two Recruit Days Buddies<br />
When we served our recruit days during NS stint, each of us was assigned a buddy. Both buddies had to work together and if one happened to have erred, both were punished as a result. It is called buddy system and I believe it should still be practised now. <br />
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I was from the first mono-intake which means we did our recruit training and after passing out, continued on as guardsman vocation till we ROD in the same unit throughout our NS stint. My unit was called 3 Guards located in the rustic Kranji area then. The camp has since been re-located where the present Yew Tee HDB flats are. <br />
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Upon enlisting, everyone was assigned to their buddy but I had two buddies, as we were the remaining last three after evenly sorting out the rest. Lang and Tong (not their real names) were my recruit days buddies. Both used to live in the same neighbourhood and prior to enlistment, they know each other in their growing up days but they were not close though. I only know them during enlistment. Their characteristic greatly contrasts to one and other. Lang was quite a sloppy man while Tong was more 'on the ball' type. Lang will not help out in cleaning and spent most of the time lying idly on the bed. Lang sported few tattoos on his body and arms. My initial impression of him was not very good then. In fact, he had one tattoo that says "He loves so and so (the name of his then girlfriend's name)" and when I got familiar with him, I started to tease him by asking what will happen if he changed his girlfriend and sure enough, he changed his girlfriend few times over. I think he eventually deleted the entire tattoo some years later. Lang did not have proper job even after ROD. He used to smoke and gamble heavy. He was also involved in triad activities and I did witness the injury he sustained one gang fight too. Yep, he was a street fighter. Tough he was outside the camp but when it came to training, it was a complete opposite. He will try hard to feign sick to avoid all sorts of training. Once, he went to great extent to get a bunk mate to break his hand using a changkok stick in desperate attempt to earn few days or weeks of MC. Few guys will hold on to him tight and one will just hit his hand hard with the stick. It was a pain to watch and I didn't want a part to play with it. Needless to say, he was not very fit and eventually downgraded. Despite all that, Lang and I got on fairly well actually. We continued to keep in contact for good many years after ROD but we have lost touch in recent times. <br />
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Tong was more a righteous person. Both of us did try to apply to apply to become policemen in a futile attempt to avoid tough army training when we were still recruits but were flatly rejected. Tong eventually managed to join the police force after ROD and later transferred to CID handling heavy crimes. Tong was quite fit and we even kept up our fitness regime after ROD but for a short period though. We used to arrange for run together at National Stadium. Tong was also downgraded when a changkok (metal plate) hit his head while digging trench in one of our exercises. I was present too. Blood was oozing out from his head, it was scary to watch and he was in great pain. Fortunately, he did not suffer serious damage to the brain but had to be downgraded to service vocation. He served the rest of his NS stint at the officers' mess. He was a total changed man after he joined the police force as a CID investigation officer. He did not want to contact any of his army mate, me included for reasons he knows best I think and slowly but surely, when we met on the street one day, we acted like strangers to each other. <br />
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The two recruit buddies of mine represented the 'black and white' in society. For a good many years, Lang was always in involved in triad activities but we had always maintained cordial friendship until we lost contact. I have never intended to disassociate with him knowing his triad connections. The righteousness of Tong is the opposite. Perhaps, he must have thought being a CID officer, he must stay away from friends in order to remain impartial. Or perhaps, it was wrong of me to assume so. I harbour hope to meet up with these recruit buddies one day. Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-38063411171737575912015-09-21T18:22:00.002+08:002015-11-21T17:53:58.437+08:00Training In Australia <br />
Australia is everything Singapore is not. They have no shortage of land while we are land-scare. They have abundance natural resources while we have none of it. They are generous with handouts to their citizens while we are definitely less generous. Australia can afford to change five Prime Ministers in short span of five years but many of us here do not believe abrupt removal of Prime Minister one time too many will do us good. Given their sheer size and wealth aplenty, they can afford to shut away from the outside world and still survive while we will sink almost immediately once we shut our doors. Suffice to say, Australia is an ideal destination any immigrant would dream to settle on. <br />
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My first encounter with Australia was in 1982 and it was my first overseas trip. It was not a holiday trip for I can barely afford as a young adult. It was an army stint as a NS soldier. Australia was already a highly developed country while we were still playing catch up in the early 80s. Indeed, it was a honour that we were the first army battalion from Singapore to be sent there for more than a month training which subsequently becomes an annual training ground for combat units to present times. That was also my first time flying a commercial jet and best of all, with Singapore Airlines to Brisbane but boarding was via the cargo complex at the wee hours of the morning. Thanks to the Australia government, we can never have another great overseas training opportunity for our soldiers had that not been granted. <br />
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The training was very tough and the terrain was exceptionally challenging. In the day, it was hot which can hit more than 40 degree C and extremely cold at night. The entire training ground including our campsite is 4 times the size of Singapore in Shoalwater Bay, Queensland. Throughout our training, we can hardly see any human habitat in the vast area allotted to us - really, it was that huge. Kangaroos and wild horses were common sight when they ran past us from a distance - so surreal like in a movie. The cries of wild animals at night that sounded like wolves can be heard loud and near when we camped out. We can never have such experience in our mostly urbanised Singapore's terrain.<br />
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I still remember Australia currency then was stronger than US currency. It was more than two Singapore dollars to one Australia dollar. Now, one Australia dollar is traded for slightly lesser than one Singapore dollar. With our peanut NS pay, it was such a pain to us when we converted our currency to Australian currency then. <br />
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Due to the strong Australia currency, our commanders told us that our hard earned 3 days rest &relax (R&R) after more than a month of hard training was not at any hotel but an army barrack in Brisbane, Each platoon was allotted an open space where we will set up our basha using each of our togo rope to form a long rope. We had to bring our own safari beds too. We did not have the luxury of even the bunks at the army barrack but an open compound instead. Officers or soldiers, we slept together - it was really that budget. Our 3 days R&R were spent in Brisbane touring and sightseeing. Dream World impressed me the most and I even had my first picture taken with a nice Australian lady. As a greenhorn or 'mountain tortoise', we truly enjoyed the tour. I believe present troop training in Australia should now enjoy better amenities and facilities compared to us then.<br />
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We were given one day off in between our long training. We were ferried to Rockhampton town to spend our free time. A few of us were walking and checking out the town. A burly man suddenly came out from the bar to invite us in. We declined his invitation and he then hurled out verbal abuses at us. He even challenged us to a fight. We knew if we confront him, we will be outnumbered. We do not want any trouble. We just ignored him and walked away. This was my first encounter to be openly abused by someone for doing no wrong. This incident has etched deep in my memory to this day. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-IlbY_jOL3JofiNiO95JrxSHBREegp3yEEqF2h9EASmAv48hGHNKM_Rjk6X2K-cFx-GnlMqwGaStWArea2Qg-OKpVfcinZEzRRTqvQAzHxy3sih1an-yxDO4aH34fgWWCBoKp/s1600/IMG_0661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-IlbY_jOL3JofiNiO95JrxSHBREegp3yEEqF2h9EASmAv48hGHNKM_Rjk6X2K-cFx-GnlMqwGaStWArea2Qg-OKpVfcinZEzRRTqvQAzHxy3sih1an-yxDO4aH34fgWWCBoKp/s320/IMG_0661.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo contributed by army mate, Chua Kok Poi</span></div>
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In one of our training, our company had to be airlifted to simulate an attack. The Australia army loaned us few Chinook helicopters for the exercise. It is a twin-engine heavy lift helicopter which can easily take in a platoon of men. SAF did not have Chinook helicopters as only few advanced nations can afford then. We were still using the already phased-out UH1H helicopters. I am proud that we were among the first few in SAF to be airlifted by Chinook. If I can remember correctly, it was only in the 90s, Chinook helicopters were introduced to SAF. We were still far behind the Australia army in term of equipment and weaponry.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo taken by an army mate, Chua Kok Poi during the exercise</span> </div>
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Even their combat rations were so much better than us. It came in few varieties. We can choose menu A to E and it was so good that most of us prefer to eat their combat rations when back to camp from field training than taking the cooked food in the cookhouse. For many of us, we will definitely remember the tasteless 'dog biscuits'. It was so hard that we used to joke that our 'dog biscuits' can knock one unconscious when hit by it. Our combat rations used to come in two types, Muslim or non-Muslim. Save for the meat, everything was the same. I am not sure if our combat rations have made vast changes compared to our times then. However, I do relish those experience. <br />
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When I was young, I used to harbour the hope of emigrating to countries like Australia, New Zealand or Europe. Perhaps I did not have much opportunity to realise the emigration dream then and it slowly fizzled out. It was during my working adulthood, I have come to realise how vulnerable our little red dot is. I used to assume our peace and stability is a given. This is my country, for better or for worse and I will defend our shores if I have to. My emigration dream has long gone. Singapore is my home and always will be. It is not a perfect place but I cannot ask for more. Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-76275347366641704262015-09-13T18:09:00.000+08:002015-09-15T11:05:33.984+08:00Landslide Win For PAP<br />
I am always been on the side of ruling party since the day I am allowed to vote. PAP has been too domineering and in the early years, I can still remember when election was called, they were immediately returned to power as more than half of the seats were not contested by opposition parties. It happened not once but I think at least twice. Lives were much simpler then. People were content with a roof over their head and enough to eat. Without a hinterland after gaining full independence, the government under LKY were focused on making sure the 'needs' of the people more than the 'wants' were met. We were a rapidly growing economy. We were named the 'Four Little Dragons' of Asia, an accolade we shared with Hong Kong, South Korea and Taiwan.<br />
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Lives are so much better now than before though we complain about high cost of living here. Our people are better educated now and have travelled to many places. Then, we were mostly relying on mainstream media to be kept informed of current affairs but news can be embargoed, rightly or wrongly. With social media in present times, we receive uncensored news almost instantly. The word, 'embargo' has become passe now. In a short span of five decades, we have become an affluent society. Those who are unable to keep pace have unfortunately fallen behind and they need help of sorts from the private and public sectors to get by. We are not a welfare society like many Western countries where big handouts are given and medical is almost free. We cannot afford to do so though some insist we can because we have accumulated huge reserves over the years. We have to be prudent and be always ready if a recession were to hit us time and again. This is what a responsible government should do. <br />
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Sometimes, I do relish on the slower pace of lives then, cost of living was so much lower and I must admit, we worry lesser. Had we remained stagnant in growth, can we, a small dot on the world map survive on own while the rest of the world continue to evolve? Like it or not, we have to progress and not just progress but to punch above our weight if we want to stay ahead of competition. Nobody is going to take pity on us if we fail. We may even end up seeking refuge elsewhere had the government of the day failed to deliver. Fortunately for us, they did not disappoint - give credit when due.<br />
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PAP has been so domineering that many felt they are not listening to valued feedback from the ground. This proved to be their Achilles heel and perhaps, it was so. The election in 2011 did send a warning sign to them when Aljunied GRC was lost and their win majority dipped too. Some may say government are more receptive to feedback and it is all thanks to the opposition - I agree somewhat. <br />
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The political landscape has changed. The expectations of people in the past and now differ greatly. People are not content living in HDB, they yearn to live in condo or landed properties if they can afford to. Even HDB has to transform. Some HDB flats look almost like condo. I have to say I do not envy the present government. They have to work really hard to appease the wants of many. Failing which, they will be blamed for the slightest of mistake or oversight. Yes, we are complaining more something some may not agree with me. Singapore is seen like a well-oiled machinery that cannot breakdown. Fact of the matter is machine does break down sometimes. We are not perfect, can never be. We are still a work-in-progress.<br />
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When PM called for election this year, I do fear the worst. I do fear freak result may see PAP not in power. We need to have stability in our government to give assurance and confidence to overseas investors. We need that or we will sink. General consensus wanted PAP to remain in power but at the same time, wanted more opposition in. However, nobody can control which ward will go where and then decide how many seats to be distributed between PAP and opposition parties. A freak result may be possible, however remote it may be.<br />
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When the final result was revealed, I am happy that PAP has regained some lost ground. A 69.9% win is simply too good to be true and on this note, I can conclude majority of Singaporeans still want PAP to be in power - a sensible decision indeed. I hope to give one message to PAP. Be humble, continue to listen to the people and work to bring stability and progress to our country going forward. Majulah Singapura!<br />
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<br />Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-90836132271592926522015-08-25T13:33:00.003+08:002015-08-25T13:33:42.876+08:00Election Is Coming<br />
Everyone is talking about it and many say election will happen in September this year. PM Lee did not attempt to hide saying it is soon in his last weekend NDP speech. I say September is likely the month where our election will take place and I am certainly looking forward to it. Already, opposition parties have started to make their rounds and some parties are still quibbling over who is to contest in which ward to avoid third corner fight. <br />
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I live in MacPherson and it is now a single ward under incumbent, Tin Pei Ling from PAP. This is going to be one of the hotly contested wards. Nicole Seah of NSP then was making waves at this ward and I must admit she has held herself well despite her young age. By my own admission, Tin Pei Ling did not fare as well as Nicole during the last election. Nicole is no longer interested to contest and now both NSP and WP are laying claim to this ward. WP is now a branded opposition other opposition parties are trying to avoid and because of their big branding, they are not willing to accede to NSP's request not to contest in MacPherson. At first NSP has agreed not to contest after the meeting by all the opposition parties but they have now overturned their decision - they now say they will contest. Both NSP and WP probably think Tin Pei Ling is a weak link and MacPherson ward is ripe for the taking. There are many poor families living in MacPherson and many are living in old 1-room and 2-room rental flats. They need help of sorts. Granted, I can hear grouses from the common folks at the hawker centre. I even heard of one elderly uncle complaining that he is planning to live in Johor. He cited the reason that our water is not safe for drinking and that nobody will win in our Toto & Big Sweep as it is controlled by the government. Comical and nonsensical but I heard it from this man. If these are his reasons for uprooting, I sincerely encourage him to do so. Probably the grass is greener across the causeway for him. I have even encountered an elderly Indian lady who is always with a younger Indian man and they are always drinking alcohol at the nearby hawker centre as long as they have money. I believe the elderly lady is using her own CPF money to support this younger Indian man. They do not work. From a neighbour's account, sometimes, the younger man would beat up the older lady when money runs dry. The lady looks sickly and dirty. She is a stroke patient and she walks unsteadily. They are on social help. Sad but she needs to first help herself before anyone can really help her. There are many families that need help from the private or public sectors. Tin Pei Ling is aware of it when I emailed her to highlight the plight of this particular Indian lady recently. She has been spontaneous with her follow up and she is sincerely wanting to help. I voted her in then because she was part of Marine Parade GRC though I have never been impressed with her. I am going to vote for her again because she has proven to be a truly committed MP who has served the residents well. Candidates from WP and NSP, don't you think MacPherson ward is an easy target. For the betterment of the residents living in MacPherson, Tin Pei Ling should continue as our MP. Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-63717745762998411782015-07-17T11:14:00.000+08:002015-07-17T11:14:01.192+08:00The Brawl Onboard<br />
It was a party thrown to the officers and crew onboard Renaissance One We were still trading in Sabah water then and that year was 1994. It was our first party celebration in appreciation to the Master, officers and crew for their support. <br />
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Though I don't drink, I did drink a little so as not to disappoint the rest. Everyone was in a party mood. We played games, had a lot of fun and plenty of booze (non-stop, unfortunately). The party just went on and on. Some were highly intoxicated. When the party was at its climax, someone reported a fight. Dropping everything, I rushed off to the scene with a few of us. One gaming crew was quite badly beaten up by a stronger deck & engine crew. Before, we could even settle down, another fight broke out somewhere again. We rushed over to check out. Pandemonium was everywhere and it was akin to a riot onboard. Again, another fight happened. It was never ending. Basically it was between few camps, the gaming department, the hotel department and the deck & engine department I later learnt. Fortunately, nobody was seriously injured as it was just physical fight using fists and not any weapon of sorts. Finally, I can heave a sigh of relief when the situation was kept under control. But at a price, there were few injuries.<br />
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The next morning, we had our own inquiry. Firstly, we realised we made a big mistake by allowing non-stop supply of alcohol for a party celebration. We should have put a cap on alcohol consumption. Too late, damage had been done. Secondly, it was a pent-up mood waiting for an eruption. The deck and engine crew were never happy with the gaming and hotel crew. The guys at the deck and engine did the physical works but they did not get tips unlike those from the hotel and gaming crew. Also, some were related to 'boy-girl' relationships which is common onboard cruise vessel. When the investigation was finally concluded, the identified ring leader of each department was fired. One from the gaming department, one from the deck & engine and one from the hotel department. When they were sober, they regretted their violent actions in the stage of intoxication. Some really needed the job. However, we were determined to send a strong message to all and to be fair too, we decided to release the ring leaders from the various departments. This is a big lesson learnt by us. Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-70919660772202913642015-07-07T17:59:00.003+08:002015-07-08T09:59:03.599+08:00Wondering Spirits<br />
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It was on board one of our vessels, "Renaissance I" when a passenger complained that he felt something unnatural in the room. Not long later, another one complained sighting familiar encounter. Then, the Filipino crew claimed they saw something they were not supposed to see. Soon, words went around that the ship was haunted. Our boss was concerned it will affect our load and therefore, decided to engage a taoist priest (sifu) to exorcise the spirits. <br />
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Through a recommendation, this particular 'sifu' was introduced to us. My colleague and I brought him to the ship to conduct an inspection. He had with him a small coffin which he carried in his hand. When we were showing him around the ship, he will sometimes make a stop and then, placed the small coffin on the floor. He will then open the coffin cover and then shut it, sensed around the place and then, continued on. He repeated this few times. After the inspection, he told us our ship was not 'clean' and he had to conduct a thorough 'overhaul'. It was so urgent for us to restore our passengers' confidence, it was to be conducted on the same evening when the ship sailed out on a one night cruise voyage. The 'sifu' had to quickly mobilise his team of disciples. I counted at least 10 of them when they came on board.<br />
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First they had to find a lowest point in the vessel. We found a small room in the engine room for them. They then set up an altar. The 'sifu' will start by combing from the top and lead the spirits to the room while his disciples will do chanting in the room. I was curious and so too for my more superstitious colleague, we decided to follow the 'sifu'. He started to pray starting from the highest deck followed by some of his disciples and two of us. We had to sweep from the top to the lowest end. We went to the bridge, we went to the open deck, we covered all the public corridors, we went to the casino while the game was still on going and I think we covered all the rooms too (moving from room to room). 'Sifu' was chanting some prayer as we moved along. Prior to that, we had informed our customers that we will be conducting some prayer in order not to alarm them. Our captain and officers hailed from Italy and they were also very co-operative throughout.<br />
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Finally we reached the lowest deck where our prayer room was. 'Sifu' then sat down facing all his disciples and they were deep in their chanting. It went on and on. My colleague and I stood by the side and watched the whole proceeding. Suddenly, two disciples started to shake vigorously (a sign that a spirit was trying to get into that person) and 'sifu' sensed that. He immediately held on to them and do a prayer. He continued to chant and a short while later, they started to calm down. It was already in the wee hour of the morning. The whole proceeding took few hours. At some point when the prayer was so intense, I tapped on my colleague's hand to get his attention. He was a joker by nature but he was so serious and totally immense in watching the whole proceeding. I then turned around and asked him, "did you see anything passing by?". He gave me a serious look as if telling me this was not the time for any joke. I returned back with a wicked smile. <br />
<br />
When it was finally over, it was already in the morning and the ship was about to come alongside at Singapore Cruise Centre. 'Sifu' told us that there were more than one spirit. He told us that the first wondering spirit found the ship and decided to make the ship its home. It then welcomed rest of the wondering spirits to its new 'home' and eventually, we formed a group. He further told us that he did not engage in any 'fierce battle' with these spirits but sought their consensus to leave the ship on promise to find a better place for them in the netherworld. The few lights were said to contain their souls and the lights cannot go off or it will spell trouble. We had to send these wondering spirits to Chua Chu Kang cemetery but before we could do so, we had to clear immigration and customs. I walked in front to clear all the formalities while the rest followed behind. As it was already daylight, we had to use an umbrella to shed the lights another person was carrying. As I approached one of the customs officers and he happened to be a Malay, I told him that it was the spirits from the ship that we were carrying. The officer must be puzzled to see someone holding an umbrella and another holding lights walking slowly inside the arrival hall. After my explanation, he understood the culture (likely giving respect to the Chinese custom), he gave us the clearance to pass through without stopping us. The spirits were finally sent to proper burial ground in Chua Chu Kang. For the longest time, we did not receive any complaint on unnatural sighing on board. Not very long later, I left the company. Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-67894705092083955562015-07-05T10:29:00.000+08:002015-07-05T10:29:56.120+08:00Dust, Powder Can Be Fire Hazards<br />
My note: This is written by a former colleague in the cruising industry who is a retired master mariner and it appeared in the ST forum recently. Given his training and profession, he has always stressed on maritime safety. The recent Taiwan party incident which took 2 lives so far and sadly, more might follow has triggered him to pen his thought.<br />
<br />
It is my pleasure to append his article on my blog for the better guidance of the readers. <br />
<br />
Quote<br />
<br />
At least two died and hundreds were injured in Taiwan when clouds of multi-coloured corn starch sprayed on the crowds exploded and engulfed the young revellers in flames ("S'porean among 500 injured in Taiwan festival fire". Monday, and "Colour Run to continue in Singapore", Thursday).<br />
<br />
The cause is likely to be cigarette lighters or heat from stage lights. The manufacturer had marked the powder as "flammable" , but the organisers ignored the warning. They said they had never heard that such an activity could be dangerous.<br />
<br />
Likewise, housewives cannot imagine that a bag of corn flour in the kitchen can explode, the way it did in Taiwan.<br />
<br />
Last August, the metallic dust suspended in factory air exploded in China, killing at least 75 and injuring many more ("Safety breaches at auto factory led to deadly dust blast, says Xinhua"; Aug 5, 2014). The factory polishes hubcaps. Perhaps the heat source was also a cigarette lighter.<br />
<br />
Experts have said that dust can be highly explosive when it is suspended in air, in the right concentrations, and this is true even of materials such as aluminium and iron that typically do not burn.<br />
<br />
We need to learn from these incidents. We must bear in mind that a heat source need not be external; dust particles rubbing against one another at high speeds can also result in a spark of explosion.<br />
<br />
By Capt Kevin Ho ( Master Mariner)<br />
<br />
p.s. this article of mine above was published in the forum page of the Straits Times on 4 July 2015. Owners and operators of buildings and ships, especially those that are very old, should note that fine dust may form in ventilation or air-condition ducting, with time. The ducting is like blood vessels, enveloping the human body. A careless spark or heat source, may cause the whole building or ship to end up in a ball of fire. Hence, regular cleaning of said ducting is absolutely necessary, not only for safety, but also for health and hygiene purposes. Learning from the factory fire in China in Aug 2014, the air-condition ductings of 2 very old cruise ships, under our management, were opened up for inspection. Dust of about one inch was found at its base. <br />
<br />
UnquoteCollin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-38011287339644096462015-07-02T21:48:00.002+08:002015-07-03T09:24:27.126+08:00My Cruise Journal<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I started working for a ground handling agent at Changi International
Airport after completing my national service and not long later, I landed a
decent job with an airline company which I worked for 5 years. I was last with a travel company before I
landed my first job in the cruise industry and it was by default too. That year was 1991 where cruising to many
then was only meant for the rich and discerning travellers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then it was a friend who called me one day to ask me to join
him urgently but he didn’t elaborate much except saying it was a travel job
which was related to cruising. I was
excited about the prospect of working for a cruise vessel. When I dropped by his office, I was surprised
to see him so immaculately dressed up like a high flier executive. Yep, I was so used to seeing him in his tee
and Bermuda shorts but what a transformation he had turned up to be. Even the office personnel addressed him as
“Mr Lim” and after I joined his company, I had to follow the rest in addressing
him the same way too – much to my reluctance though. He was the executive director of the company
that chartered a cruise vessel for operation in Singapore and Jakarta. It was a quick chat and soon, I was given a
job by him. He wanted me to help
set up the travel arm for the company.
But before I could even sit down to map the travel plan, I was asked to
take a cruise on board their vessel to render any help. Gosh, I had never been on board a cruise
vessel in my life but it certainly sounded exciting for me as a greenhorn. The Singapore Cruise Centre at the then World
Trade Centre (the present HarbourFront) was not fully operational yet and
therefore, the vessel had to berth at Keppel Container Port. My first association with any cruise vessel
was called “Orient Sun”, an ageing vessel which was the company’s first
chartered vessel that plied between Singapore and Jakarta. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was waiting at the container port for the ship to come
alongside where I got to see all the actions for the first time in my life. Everyone seemed busy with their own chores except
for me. Someone briefly introduced me to
some of the key people on board and thereafter, I was left alone. I really had no inkling what was I supposed
to do while on board as there was no specific instruction given by my new boss. He just threw me in the deep sea. Like any “true warrior”, I just went along and
did what was deemed fit to do. I went to
the purser office and started to help them in the manifestation work; helped to
man the reception even duplicating keys for passengers; helped at the
restaurant when it was busy and even went to the supermarket to make urgent purchases
for ship when the ship supplier did not turn up with fresh supplies. It was the chef who frantically ran up to me to
ask for help in getting urgent supplies.
I didn’t know who to approach but somehow I managed to get a passenger
van driver to send me to the nearest supermarket to clean up the shelves. Come to think of it, it was quite comical
then. I came from an established
European airline company where everything was so structured and orderly. Over here, it was like everyone to themselves
and one had to learn to find one’s own way to get things done. It was really a culture shock for me but a
great learning curve I must say. There is
no textbook to follow. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While waiting at the wharf-side for the vessel to come
alongside at the container port for the first time in my life, it was surreal to
see a fleet of sleek white Mercedes Benz lining up nicely in one row. One would have thought the cars were meant
for export out but no, these cars were on standby to pick up the VVIPs on
board. When the VVIPs finally strolled
down the gangway in high fashion accompanied by gleeful customer service staff
(generous tips were expected from these high rollers) who then whiskered them
to the waiting vehicles. It was like a
HK triad movie to me. I then realised ours was a ‘high octane’ gaming vessel that just got back from an
overnight high sea cruise packed with high rollers from Indonesia, HK, Taiwan,
Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. Stakes
were high which ran into millions of dollars.
This charted my inroad to the booming local cruising industry. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the beginning of the 90s, local cruising landscape
started to transform rapidly. Our
company quickly chartered another passenger vessel, “Royal Pacific”. She was a newly refurbished vessel, converted
from a car ferry. During that period,
she was considered one of the better passenger vessels that plied in our region
waters. I didn’t stay very long with the
company and I later joined the ship owner of “Royal Pacific” as its operations
manager when the charterer (my former company) decided to off-hire the vessel. The ship owner company was known as Starlite
Cruises took back the vessel. In our new
business plan, we had planned to run a leisure cruise voyage with lesser emphasis
on gaming. Our ambitious routes had
included Port Klang, Penang and Phuket. We
roped in experienced personnel from our Miami-based company to help us. However, fate did deal us a cruel blow when
our vessel, “Royal Pacific” sank in the Straits of Malacca during our maiden
voyage. She collided with a fishing
trawler in the Straits of Malacca. I am
one of the survivors of the sunken vessel and the rest is history. Fortunately, fatality rate was low though we
were ill-prepared for such a crisis. That
year was August 1992 when the ship sank and the local cruise industry did take
a tumble but quickly recovered. Not many
people can still remember about the sinking vessel now which was then a major shipwreck
incident. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Few months later, our ship owner re-positioned another of
its Miami based vessels, “Regent Spirit” to Singapore. We had renamed our company to Regency Cruises. Finally, I left the company to join another upstart
local based cruise company called Renaissance Cruises. That year was 1994. My new company chartered two Italian built
vessels, “Renaissance I” and “Renaissance II” which they later bought over from
the owner. It was another high sea
cruise where gaming operation is the key to survival. I was managing these two vessels for the
company. Personally, I like “Renaissance
I” as it was this vessel that went through turbulent period with me. The vessel was like a second home to me and during
my stay on board, I was always well taken care by the crew too. It was not a big vessel and we were quite
closely knitted. I was practically left
to fend on my own when “Renaissance I” was re-positioned in Kota Kinbabalu. I followed the ship to Kota Kinabalu and
helped in the setting up of operation. The
vessel faced harassment of sorts from the authorities and even threats from gangsters. One day the vessel was arrested while on high
sea cruise in South China Sea. We were
actually sabotaged by a local influential figure who initiated the police to arrest
the ship. We were hauled back to port
and we had to stop operation temporary. We
then fought a bitter court battle with the authority for a good one year and
fortunately, we won the case - much thanks to our Sabah legal counsel who is now my good friend too. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In 1995, I joined another locally based vessel, “Leisure
World” as its owner’s representative and subsequently, went on to manage the
company’s travel division on shore. This
was to be my longest stint. I stayed
more than a decade with the company before venturing out to set up my own
travel and aviation companies in year 2001.
I re-joined the company in 2005 when my own businesses went topsy turvy during
the SARS outbreak. My time with Leisure
World and the company was largely peaceful.
I finally left the organisation in 2012 to pursue my other passion in
life. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Admittedly I have never been not trained in the maritime
industry before as I started my career in the airport and airline. Everything I learnt was purely based on
trial-and-error. Even when our ship was
struck with an ill-fated tragedy and many a time, I had to apply some common
sense to the things I had to do and follow up.
At time, it was really high tension and looking back, I do not know how
I managed to survive through the aftermath.
I am glad I did, somehow. Despite
all the knocks in the volatile cruising industry, I have had enjoyed the many
opportunities given to me and at the same time, the adversities I had to face
and overcome. The early years in the cruising
industry was exciting for all. At its
height, there were easily 7 to 8 cruise vessels plying the lucrative high sea
route. In the last 2 decades, many players
appeared and many left too. The local cruising
industry can now witness just a handful of players. To have survived this long tumultuous period,
this says something special about these handful few. <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-51328700309828281532015-06-17T22:35:00.003+08:002015-06-18T18:24:40.678+08:00Fifth Edition Cycling Cruise To Taiwan and Okinawa 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5yjkj-NY0Rufncj6It_I3iT-SmJqv1UW8alNqG6z35FPINUTQYKHxx81FirJhLlCAWwfedaoSF16ZeWmQZleJXaZJbYisJrwIi4_vVVp5yF2XXdjm1rNFSjjRjerpXHyX38kQ/s1600/STARCRUIS_OKINAWA_JPG-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5yjkj-NY0Rufncj6It_I3iT-SmJqv1UW8alNqG6z35FPINUTQYKHxx81FirJhLlCAWwfedaoSF16ZeWmQZleJXaZJbYisJrwIi4_vVVp5yF2XXdjm1rNFSjjRjerpXHyX38kQ/s320/STARCRUIS_OKINAWA_JPG-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Group picture in Ishigaki on first day of ride </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
It has been my pleasure to co-organise this event with Star Cruises once again. It was our fifth edition and our second to Taiwan and Okinawa on Superstar Aquarius following our first trip in September last year where we had an unusual date with typhoon "Fung-Wong" then. This time we did not get to meet any 'typhoon of sorts' but it was the hot weather that we had to contend with in Taiwan and Okinawa.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Briefing on board before our ride</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
The cycling cruise trip was scheduled on 7 June over 6 days duration. This time we had a motley group of some 50, from the leisure PCN cyclists to the hardcore cyclists and surprisingly, quite a number of them are senior citizens. There were non-cyclists among them, mainly the accompanying wives of the cyclists. Much to our delight, we saw those who were with us last year and they were Andrew Lum (Star Cruises' staunch supporter who came 4 out of 5 times), Hong Choon and the 'forever young' Murphy and his three regular cycling kakis. Added to that, some 40 cyclists from Taiwan also joined us for the 2 days ride in Ishigaki and Naha respectively. In all, we had about 90 cyclists. The ride was supported by a team from Giant Adventure led by gregarious Frank Hou. Once again, their efficiency and professionalism did impress all of us at the end of the cycling tour.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Final preparation at Ishigaki port before rolling off </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
It was an early departure on 7 June, Sunday by SQ876 leaving at 0820 hours. My two kakis, Tan and Jane had arrived few days prior on their own and they will then join us at Keelung port on 7 June. It was a pleasant and hassle-free onboard SQ flight. And upon our arrival, we had to rush a little so that we can arrive at Keelung port by 1500 hrs. Frank was already at the arrival hall to greet us and when everyone was out from customs, we were well on the way to the port - an hour drive needed. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Couple Tan and Jane in Ishigaki</span></div>
<br />
We arrived at Keelung port at about 1500 hrs. We were among the last group to embark. While onboard, Frank took the opportunity to introduce his team to us during the briefing. For the second time, chatty Hong Choon shared the cabin with me. He came alone, enjoyed the last trip and was hoping to know more friends in this trip. Save for the time we met at our cabin, I largely left him to mingle with the rest. I was mostly with Tan, Jane and Andrew. There was this group comprising senior citizens, Sunriders and Long and Doris whom I know from other events are among their members. They even took the trouble to design a special cycling jersey for their own group. There were other couples and friends who signed up separately and it was just a matter of time they will warm up to each other. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cyclists cycling in single file in Ishigaki</span></div>
<br />
The first ride was in Ishigaki and for some, it was our second trip there. On our first day of ride, we worn the 5th edition all yellow cycling jerseys. It was almost the same route we had for last year. There were some climbs but not particularly steep save for the last part where the highest point stands at about 100-metre high. The road is nicely paved throughout. not a single pothole can be seen and the motorists generally gave us wide berth. From the port where we rolled off, we cycled along the scenic coast to the popular Kabira Bay and we then made a u-turn back to the town centre. Ishigaki is a small island which attracts throngs of tourists mostly from Taiwan. There are not many modern buildings and corns are a common sight. The support team from Giant Adventure made sure that there was a support crew at every turn so that no one will be left behind. The weather was generally hot but compared to our humid weather here, I can't say for more though. First day ride clocked about 45 km. We had late lunch in town before heading back to the port for our re-boarding.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Bikes waiting for customs clearance at Naha port on day two of ride</span></div>
<br />
We missed our ride in Naha last year due to typhoon but this time, I was looking forward to it. Naha is the capital city of Okinawa Prefecture. We were supposed to cover some 70 km but the stringent customs procedures at Naha port did delay our roll-off somewhat. Naha seemed to be hotter than Ishigaki. The place is definitely much developed than Ishigaki. There are more buildings and nice flyovers. For the large part, we were mostly cycling in the city area and traffic movement was quite heavy. Every 200-metre, there is always a traffic light and it changes quite fast too. Much to my delight, I have not heard a single horn from the motorists while alongside the cars and trucks. We were cycling in single file and obediently observed all traffic rules. They have nice park connector too. It is still an island and the breeze from the sea did cool us down despite the hot weather. We did not clock 70 km and had to stop around 50 km. We had our lunch before heading back to the port. This capped our second day of ride.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Group picture in Naha</span></div>
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In the evening while cruising back to Keelung, Frank and I organised some fun and games for the cyclists. As the Taiwanese cyclists will not be joining us for the ride in Taiwan, we had a simple certificate presentation for them. We had great time with the Taiwanese cyclists. One particular group called the "Taichung Apple Bike Club" (ABC) and among them, there are two senior cyclists who are 75-year old. The two gentlemen were given the highest applaud when their names were announced. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Warming up and getting ready at Naha port</span></div>
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When we arrived at Keelung port in the afternoon, we were transferred to Yilan where we will start our 91 km ride to Taipei. We stayed one night at Yilan Shangrila Boutique Hotel. Yilan is a rustic country side surrounded by a range of mountain. There are many padi fields in this countryside. In the evening, we went to the famous Luodong Night Market where we just hopped from one stall to another to fill up our tummy. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Taiwanese cyclists taking a break in Naha</span></div>
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It was our final day of ride on 11 June, Thursday and we were expected to cover about 91 km and ending at our hotel in Taipei. We got up early and by 0730 hrs, everyone was already out. Mentally we were prepared to overcome two mountains and at its highest point, it stands at 500 metres. The route is famous for its '9 turns and 18 curves' during the climb. The first 30 km was mostly flat before we start our climb. We stopped for lunch first. Along the way, we even made pit stops at a discarded brick kiln and Gin Tung Chuen waterway. We also visited a fruit factory, toured around the premises where prunes are produced. <br />
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I<span style="font-size: x-small;">dyllic Yilan countryside</span> </div>
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After lunch, we then started the climb. It was a gradual climb for a good 14 km, not very steep. For the regular cyclists, it should not pose any major challenge. The road is curvy and I understand it is very heavily used during the weekend by cyclists and motor cyclists. Fortunately for us, it was a weekday when we rode save for trucks that send deliveries to Taipei on a daily basis. The trees that line on both sides did provide shelter on a otherwise hot day. As we climbed the countryside and the mountain range appearing on the background provides a picturesque sight. After reaching the highest point, the downhill is some 8 km. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Model couple Lung & Doris </span></div>
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The second climb is less demanding than the first climb, about 400 metres. This will lead us all the way to the city. I was mostly with Tan and Jane on the second climb. Tan enjoying away and he actually was singing away and when it came to the chorus part, I backed him up. Jane was somewhat tired as she had not been doing much climbing in Singapore of late but the songs did provide reprieve of sorts to her (I hope). The downhill is about 12 km. I was going down quite fast when I noticed my handle was shaking that rendered my bike unstable. I then decided to pull a stop when I found a flat section. I realised my front tyre was punctured. Phew, it was a close shave and had I continued on the downhill, I may be thrown off from my bike. It was certainly a wise decision to pull a full stop. A quick change of wheel by the sweeper when the rear support vehicle arrived and off I went again to re-join the group at the foot of the hill. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Climbing up and still looking cheerful</span></div>
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Another 8 km ride on the road and we finally reached our hotel by 1800 hrs. Everyone had arrived safely and that is key. Kudos to all of us, we clocked 91 km on our last ride of ride to Taipei city. In the evening, we roamed the street for dinner before retiring to bed.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">From the top looking down in Yilan</span></div>
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On our last day before we flew back, we had a simple certificate presentation to all. After that, we gave three big bows to Frank and his team for their excellent support throughout. This ended another successive cycling cruise, our fifth edition. Hip, hip, hip...hooray! (3 x)<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Me giving thumbs up when the ride is finally over</span></div>
Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-74723766995751889482015-05-23T14:40:00.002+08:002015-05-23T14:57:21.481+08:00Football Diplomacy<br />
I played football when I was a schoolboy but at best, I can only make it to class team and not beyond. My favourite player was Kevin Keegan who played for England and Liverpool as midfielder. Admittedly, I tried to emulate him but still cannot improve on my footballing skills. In the nutshell, I am not cut out to be a footballer.<br />
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When I was stationed onboard a passenger vessel, 'Leisure World' for a short spell, I organised football game for the crew members on shore. That was in the mid to late 90s. The ship has many nationalities but the Burmese crew are one football craze lot. Some were really good. Many of our Filipino crew were not interested in football. When we had Brazilian entertainment crew onboard, I approached a former colleague who was managing an Italian class passenger vessel, 'Renaissance' for a friendly football match. The game was on and it was to be played at PSA Sports Club. <br />
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My former colleague, Vincent was the manager for his team while I acted for my team. When our players were doing their warming up, I issued a warning to Vincent that we had Brazilian players in our team and asked whether he wanted to bet with me. When he saw our Brazilian players who looked muscular and fit, he was awestruck. Before we started play, he was already betting his team to lose. On his side, his officers were from Italy and some of the younger officers were playing. I even told him at least he had Italian players on his side but he was already "defeated" when he saw some of our fit and mean looking Brazilian players. <br />
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When the referee blew to start, it was actually his Italian players who were controlling the game. As for our Brazilian players, actually our Myanmar players were a notch better than them. I then turned to Vincent and told him our Brazilian crew do not play football as they were professional dancers only. Our Brazilian players were all over the place, couldn't kick the ball properly and easily lost possession of the ball to the opponents. It was quite comical watching our "prized" Brazilian players on the field. Vincent's team played very well and his Italian players were fast, controlled the ball well. Very soon, they were one goal up and leading. I cannot remember the final score but we lost eventually. I then turned to Vincent who was betting against his own team, gave him a good laugh and he was dumbfounded. <br />
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Another occasion when I arranged a friendly football match for our office team against a local team. Most of my younger colleagues were in their 20s and some had just ROD from the Commandos. They were fit and in their prime. Derrick was the team captain and I asked if his team had been training well. He gave me the confident look and then told me not to worry. The night before the game, some of them including team captain, Derrick were actually partying away onboard the vessel. <br />
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It was still the same ground at PSA Sports Club. When I arrived, the other players from the other team were already warming up but our players were still not to be seen yet. Then slowly but steadily, our players made their grand entrance to the field. They looked "stoned" as they were drinking merrily onboard the day before. Derrick even assured me that they will do well but deep inside me, I was not that hopeful. <br />
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When the match was kicked off, it was lopsided all the way. Our players cannot muster enough strength to chase, evidently their fitness was all gone and they were not chasing after the ball at all. One goal up, two goals up, three goals up and counting. I was unfit to play but some of our players were already burning out fast and reluctantly, I had to step in too. The other side relented on their assault and finally, we managed to score a solitary goal through late Seow. The score in the end read 12 to 1, I think or maybe more, I cannot remember the actual score. We had a good thrashing and a wake up call. From there on, I never organised another football game for the office team anymore to preserve our dignity.<br />
<br />Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-15594930695762058692015-05-16T18:31:00.001+08:002015-05-18T12:30:15.607+08:00Aranda May Day Run 2015<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Group picture at the club</span></div>
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This morning I helped to organise for my club's maiden run event, the Aranda May Day Run 2015. In all some 80 runners signed up for the run which covers a distance of 5.5 km at Pasir Ris Park. <br />
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To prepare for the run, I had to wake up at 0445 hrs and quickly leave my house to pick up two staff from Aranda Country Club, Vivian and Linda along the way. We had early breakfast at McDonald's joined by the rest who were involved in the early morning set up. Steve, one of our house committee members who helped with the set up of the water station at half way mark joined us for breakfast too. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">At the start line</span></div>
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Our flag-off was scheduled at 0800 hrs and already, some runners arrived early. When I saw a group of young runners from F1 running group, I knew it will be an uphill task for our Team Aranda runners, the likes of Peter, Gavin and Simon and my regular run kaki, Long Chua to snatch a podium finish. I was also expecting Vanja who had registered under F1 group (she hails from Belgium and she has been a top finisher in all local 10 km run events since she arrived in Singapore more than 2 years ago) but to my slight disappointment, she did not turn up in the end. But it was still a strong turnout of runners especially some of the male runners. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Final remainder to runners before the flag-off</span></div>
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Tan Chai Koon, our Club's house committee Chairman was our guest-of-honour who will flag off the runners. Peter Goh, the General Manager of both Orchid Country Club and Aranda Country Club joined in with the flag-off too. Among my friends who signed up, Long Chua came with his whole family, Doreen Go, Esther and Khishgee (one of our run kakis who was aiming for a podium finish in the ladies' category). Edmond and his wife, Jamie did not turn up as they overslept.<br />
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The start venue is at the start of the park connector near Aranda Country Club and when all marshals and water point were up and ready, our runners were finally flagged off at 0800 hrs. The actual distance was slightly less than 5.5 km. The weather was fine though it did look like it was going to rain with some overcast building up. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Our runners at Pasir Ris Park</span></div>
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I was waiting at the finishing together with some. The chat group we created reported the runners at different stage and therefore we had a fairly good idea of the various positions of the runners especially the front pack. It was reported that the front runners were from F1 group. When the first runner dashing down on the final 100 metres stretch, he was from F1 run group. He was running at a very fast pace and when he hit the tape, he was just under 20 minutes. My stopwatch showed 19 mins 57 secs. The first runner up came in some 37 seconds later. 7 seconds later, the second runner up came in. Long Chua was not that bad too. He was in 7th position and credit to him, he actually beat some of the much younger F1 runners too. For the ladies, the first runner clocked 23 mins 41 secs. 1st runner up came in 1 min 13 secs followed closely by the 2nd runner up 19 seconds later. I was pleasantly surprised when I saw Khishgee running down the final stretch and came in 4th position, just missing out on the podium finish. Had Khishgee trained more regularly, she could have been among the podium finishers. In all, not that bad for my Wednesday running group. For Team Aranda runners, Peter came in first followed by Gavin, Simon and Teong in that order.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDyBC0tE6u8rt9RavNQLlRmyymOgHjO-n-Rb_3QsBy78ZBxVlkwkt2XJgR3p6XUOKkoQJ_11T3O-q8ajcufDhLB-wLglZMN6oqlJYHVsFKMEBtQvVMo7dsy4JJiIQtK2ia7Ab/s1600/IMG_3717%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDyBC0tE6u8rt9RavNQLlRmyymOgHjO-n-Rb_3QsBy78ZBxVlkwkt2XJgR3p6XUOKkoQJ_11T3O-q8ajcufDhLB-wLglZMN6oqlJYHVsFKMEBtQvVMo7dsy4JJiIQtK2ia7Ab/s320/IMG_3717%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The podium finishers</span></div>
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After the run, the runners were ushered to Ban Hing Restaurant for a light breakfast and refreshment. Completion certificate was presented to everyone and of course, all the 6 runners from F1 group grabbed all the top three in the men's and ladies' category respectively. However, we did prepare one exclusive trophy for our Aranda's member. It is an inspiration award and it went to Teong, our regular runner at Aranda. Teong did not expect to receive this award but he truly deserved it. Teong who is in his 60s has set good example to many senior citizens to take up exercise to stay fit and this is the message we want to put to our senior members in the club. A lucky draw followed and the morning event ended with three loud cheers from all - hip, hip, hip...hooray (3 times)! Aranda May Day Run will be back again next year, I am sure.<br />
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<br />Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17324052.post-76506466418939920822015-04-26T12:34:00.000+08:002015-04-26T15:23:30.530+08:00My Pen Pal<br />
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Anyone still remembers "Pen Pal"? I think only those in their 40s and above are aware of its existence. With internet comes email, Facebook, Twitter and the rest of the social media stuff and this thingy called "Pen Pal" which had been part of our growing up years has regrettably becomes insignificant anymore.<br />
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I was in my lower secondary school when I started to have pen pals. It went on for few years. It was the in-thing then. During those days, many magazines targeting the young people would have a column which featured contacts of those who are keen to have pen pals. One particular magazine was the Fanfare if I remember the name correctly. Back then, such thing like spam was unheard of then. Home addresses and names of those who wished to find pen pals were openly published. Their hobbies and interests were also listed. <br />
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At my height, I had quite a number of pen pals but I can only remember one in particular. She is an Eurasian girl, quite pretty by my standard. I still remember the school she was studying (quite a popular school then compared to mine, a neighbourhood school). It was really fun and exciting to have pen pals. We had to personally pen down our thought, write it nicely to impress the other party and then post out. I used to keep all the letters from my pen pals and they are all girls. I don't have male pen pal for obvious reason. Unfortunately, this form of communication is fast fading away as people either email, tag, whatsapp or whatever using modern mode of communication. Sheepishly, I am now following the present trend too. Back to the favourite pen pal of mine, that Eurasian girl. We communicated quite regularly via letters. She even mailed me her school badge which I put it close to me. Each time, I would check my letter box for her letter and very quickly, I followed up with mine. I had her photo too. Did I send mine? Quite frankly, I cannot remember now. I was actually quite a shy boy. I did not arrange to meet any of my pen pal and gradually, the interest kind of fizzled out. So, no first date from any of my pen pal during my teenage years. Let's get real, I was too poor to go on date anyway. I was also afraid I would fumble with what to say. Alright, the latter was the real reason why I didn't date any of my pen pal then. <br />
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Lastly, I hope my favourite pen pal, that Eurasian girl is living well. She may not remember me now even if we happen to meet. The platonic relationship among young people where boys are keen to know girls and likewise is norm with youngsters, me included . "Pen Pal" is indeed an important part of my growing up life.Collin Nghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17620820661249579661noreply@blogger.com0