Tuesday, November 27, 2007
The things that happen in Malaysia, after exactly 50 years of independance, remains as it is; interesting.
I cannot say more as there are laws preventing free speech even in online blogs. Interesting, as I have already said.
http://news.my.msn.com/regional/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1115051
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wee_Meng_Chee
Well, at least Wee Meng Chee got his name on Wikipedia.
It suddenly seems so real that I'm going to Singapore to study once I've actually seen the boarding school and school. I guess the point never really hit home until I actually set foot on Singapore ground.
I'll talk about the school later...
And I bought about nine of my text books!! I'm delirious with happiness. The Science books, Chemistry, Biology and Physics look like encyclopedias with fully coloured pages and photographs on every other page! The papers used were also the high quality that what somewhat photo-paper-ish, if you know what I mean. The syllabus isn't boring either.
I have no idea why some people that Singapore is too exam orientated and does not promote thinking out of the box. I, for one; find it ridiculously creative (in a good way) in it's way of teaching. I even understand some parts of the Add Maths already. If that isn't a miracle, God knows what is.
All the subjects seem bright and lively, despite the fact that bright and lively can be hardly used to describe anything remotely related to studying. I was so attracted by the text books that it almost justifies anything that I find difficult to put up with in Singapore. The lack of library in my boarding school continues to gnaw at me, though. The literature text book what really interesting, although I still find it hard to interpret some of the poems.
The Additional Maths was a pain, as it was so complex that most of the questions made my head reel. I really do hate Mathematics. The Modern M3 wasn't that difficult although I might change my mind when I touch later chapters. I didn't get any English text books because the load was too heavy for me to carry all the way through Orchard Road.
And I have to take Civics, Geography and Social Studies. Geography and Social Studies are okay, probably because of the influence of their cool text books on me. Civics, I have no idea; no text book either. I didn't buy any of the Malay language books as well. It was first somewhat stressful when I found out that I had to take more subjects than I had intended to. If Biology, Chemistry and Physics were separate subjects, I would be taking a grand total of eleven subjects. I have no idea what the actual scheme is yet.
12:20 PM
Saturday, November 17, 2007
I just came across a real eye-opener. Looking through good books to read by google (in other words, I just search for random publishers for recommendations), I found a blog by an author. It was so exciting when I realised that the entries for her blog were PERFECTLY ORDINARY. I actually expected authors to live in different spectres of the universe, eventhough I aspire to become one. I makes me feel that my goal is so near, just within my reach...!
Even if sometimes I find it it hard to finish something I put my mind on; its still a start.
I'm just so happy...!
2:14 PM
Cute eh?
http://www.worryvsdonuts.com/?p=82
I just noticed that there's so many pieces of me floating about in cyberspace. In fact, a mere google search on my name and lots of things just... appear. Forums that I used to participate in, websites where I was foolish enough to use my actual name.
And so, I'm going to list all my previous blogs; parts of my life on the net here.
2nd March 2005 - 28th July 2006 :http://rebecca-c.livejournal.com/
27th May 2006 -12th November 2006 :http://silv-r-orb.livejournal.com
26th January 2007 - 21st September 2007:http://ex0plain0nation.livejournal.com/ (least updated)
I just feel so... full. I wonder if one day I might be able to publish my 'journals' after polishing them... I'm so glad that I left something of myself in this life. I'd be horrified should I die without leaving a mark on the world. It makes our existence so insignificant and pointless. I guess there's where religion comes in, but I just can't stop believing that God created us to do something big for Him. Perhaps the book I will write in future will help in His work.
This also reminds me on how I feel about my family and religion. It's just all so messy and wrong. I asked my sister whether she was afraid to go to hell just the other day, and she scoffed at me. SCOFFED! And she said she was a Christian purely because my mother was. All that thinking about afterlife and redemption really makes me feel sick to my stomach, especially when I know how imperfect I must be and also about facing my friends and family after death. Will we be in heaven or will we be in hell? Will it be my fault? Which is why I try not to think of such depressing matters. But I do realise that one day I really must spend some time on the subject.
I can think of a thousand things I want to say. But I only can think of few ways to say it.
Strange.
3:07 AM
Friday, November 16, 2007
Next week I'm going to Singapore to check out my new school. I'll probably put up some pictures here just to show what the school and dorm is actually like. I hope it doesn't differ too much from the images displayed in the website. It'd be a huge disappointment if it turns out to be, 'indah khabar dari rupa'. (I need to find out the English equivalent of that someday...) Haha.. I still have to polish my BM as I'm taking Higher Malay for GCSE.
(add info: GCSE - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Certificate_of_Secondary_Education)
I'm also changing my layout as this format does not allow comments - something that I find really annoying as the main point of this blog is to keep in touch with everyone.
The wonders of internet also continues to astound me.
Quote Ms. Lim: Many Malaysian scholars encounter problems with the Mathematics syllabus in Singapore, let me give you some idea on the topics that we cover in Secondary 3 & 4 - Algebra, Matrices, Trigonometry, Mensuration, Vectors.
And so I looked them up on wikipedia. The result was a big headache as I found it hard to comprehend many (any, actually) of the terms. Of course, I looked through the book Khye Chwin lent me but it's so different from the references online. The book is less complicated. And I really understand better through examples and problems than through definitions. Really, I think they use big words all the time just to torture poor students like me.
Combined Humanities.. I'm probably taking the Social Studies + Literature Elective, whatever that is- since I'm based on literature and stuff. I really hope I don't flunk.
What I'm most worried about now is the triple sciences. Physics, Biology and Chemistry are completely new subjects to me. Memorising what seems like mumbo jumbo and its terms don't really appeal. Worst of all, I'm so lazy to look through my books so as to gain a head start on the other students. Or at least a foundation of what I'll probably face since the students there are no doubt already far more advanced than I am - despite the fact that I'm repeating a grade.
Repeating a grade.
It's sounds so... degrading.
I guess its crucial as there is much to learn and the very next year will be my GCSE year. Still, it just feels so sad that I'll be a year older than practically all (hopefully except for the other scholars) students that will be studying there.
There's also my dormitory. According to my father, it's supposed to be for the Hwa Chong (Chong Hwa, anyone?) school, but since Xinmin isn't a boarding school, I'll be staying there instead. This also means that there's a 45 minute bus trip between my actual school and the place I'll be staying. Have I mentioned that I hate travelling? And I get lost in parking lots?
Is it any surprise why I'm feeling nervous about it?
In Hwa Chong, according to my teacher mentor, there is some sort of roll call(?) that will ensure all boarders are in the dormitories in the evening. After that, there's a two hour study peroid. Fun indeed.
And this is all for my future.
Links:
Boarding School (Hwa Chong): http://www.hcibs.edu.sg/
School (Xinmin) : http://www.xinminss.moe.edu.sg:1285/main/
2:48 PM
Thursday, November 15, 2007
And the time is messed up because I haven't adjusted them yet. I'm waiting till I get to Singapore.
12:39 AM
WOW.
What a day. Well, night actually. (Aliteration! Lookie!)
Anyway, I must first say that the presents were completely unexpected.
In fact, when I heard that so many people were coming, I was already shocked.
Okay, for those who don't know, (which I doubt are many) we had a farewell party in Italliannes (sp? I should check my balloon but I'm too sleepy and I want to finish this entry before the day ends) which was organized by Shuk Huay and Wei Ann. It was supposed to be a farwell party but Wei Ann spoilt it when I was complaining about her RM70.00 birthday present. (Quote: You better be appreciative about me sending so many sms for your farwell party)
I was supposed to go out with Shuk and Devina to 1U just to loiter and window shop on that day. I didn't know anything about the date for the party. (I knew there was going to be one, but wasn't sure exactly when) Until of course, Wei Ann ruined Shuk's plans. It's not that I'm unappreciative, though. It's just fun to be bitter about it.
After reaching 1U, (the experience on the way to Devina's house was also quite terrifying. I thought I might have been lost despite me going to her house at least three times already) Devina and I stopped by Itallianes to see if anyone was already there. No one was. As it was already 7, I thought that Shuk and the rest must have went to watch a movie or something. After all, the waiter said that Miss Koh (Kuh, he pronounced it) said that they would be there at 7.15. We both then decided to walk aimlessly to pass time. We went to F.O.S. (Factory Outlet Store or Full of Shit, courtesy of Shuk) and I made my first impulse buy. (RM20!)
(There were a few interludes where we were afraid that Becca See got kidnapped because she didn't reply our sms)
I guess it was a little late when we finally got there (I blame the impulse buy) and I was so shocked so see so many people. 30 seats doesn't sound like much on the paper, or even on the phone; but in flesh, 30 was overwhelming. I felt so happy that people actually took their time to come and say goodbye to me. They might have came to see their boyfriends or whatever, but wow. And I got plenty of presents!!!!! (unexpected. Really, they weren't necessary!!!!!)
Since I'm so proudddd of them, I'll list them down. (Hopefully I don't forget anything.) In no particular order, of course. I'll even write down the cost since almost all the presents had price tags on them or receipts. It's just funny. No offense, though.:
a) A BIBLE!
- Reaction: OMG! Never thought that anyone would get me a bible! THANK YOU! I always wanted a new one. Mine was getting frayed around the edges. PERFECT for when I attend my new church in Singapore. And it even comes with the most adorable of bags!!!!!
By: Shermaine, Keith, Bryan, Cheng Ken, Jie Yang, Hon Boon, Shu Ting and Fong
Cost: About RM 60++ (forgot, Shuk threw the receipt away), plus paper bag, who knows?
b) Minnie Mouse STUFFED TOY!!!
-Reaction: Cutest thing that ever existed!!!!! First stuffed toy that I've ever gotten that won't cause me respiratory problems! Love the lack of fur. And it's so cute and squeezable. Expect it squozen. THANKS!!!
By: Jing Li and/ <3 style="font-size:180%;">
c) WALLET
-Reaction: I've been wanting one for ages!!!! (Well, it helped that I complained quite a few times about my half dead one but it proves that you LISTEN!!!) And what a gorgeous one! (Love the colour, the design) Thankzzz.z.z.z.z..z.z.z. (<--- on purpose, btw) By: Khye Chwin, Jie Ying, Kar Yee and Wei Ann
Cost: RM35.90
d) Wheel of Time - ROBERT JORDAN Vol 1!!!!
-Reaction: Wanted to read this for ages! (Saw the series and thought it might be interesting. After all, there would only be a series of books only if the book was good!) Thanx!!!!!
By: Khye Chwin (birthday present)
Cost: Not going to mention it since I've already complained. ^_~ Seriously, once again, I'm not ungrateful or anything. It's just fun to note down and look back on all of it one day. (Like Keith's RM8.90 Purple Lizard Air-Freshener that Wei Ann destroyed the same day)
e) PENCIL BOX!!1!!!111111
-Reaction: Just nice! The deco is not messy and overdone; the colours simple enough to be gorgeous. The place I'll probably try to sneak my notes in during exams... ^_^ TQ!!!
By: Karen and Elaine!
Cost: There was a receipt, but I'm not going to mention the price since they might be hurt. =P
f) WATER BoTTle
-Reaction: Quote (Card): A place to keep my shit-water. (NeWater) Indeed. Bottle's cute though. And Aryl, you are NOT macho and handsome. THANK YEW!
By: Yew Weng and Aryl
Cost: No receipt/price tag! Woah!
g) PeN!!!!
-Reaction: Love the box. Love the pen. Love the sentiment. Hate the implication. Think I'm fat, huh? (Inside joke) TERIMA KASIH! THANK YOU! XIE XIE! NANDRI! ARIGATOU! (please say you guys didn't forget this from primary or I'll just..... be sad)
By: Kien Lam
Cost: Unavailable! Cool!
h) SWEATERRRRRR!!!!!!!
-Reaction: And there I was worried that I'd freeze to death in Singapore. There's school regulation jackets and I was kinda nervous about that too. And now with the jacket....!!!! It makes me look like a cool hip-hopper. (look, the imperative) THank YOu!!! xoxoXOXOX
By: Hao Yan!
Cost: Probably a lot. But I don't know... I really appreciate it!!!! <3
and last, but not least (a phrase I'll never be able to understand)
i)A STOLEN BALLOON!!! zomgwtfroflmao!!!!
-Reaction: "I dub thee my mallet of death!
By: Becca See and Devina
Cost: Nothing. It's STOLEN, you see. I guess they'll say that they risked life and limb for it. You see, there was a room behind our dining area which was probably employees only. It was full with Italliannes balloons. They sneaked in and STOLE the balloons before handing it to me. After my protests at it being STOLEN GOODS, they dutifully asked permission from the poor, put-upon, tortured, cornered waiter who was in charge of our section. He said it was okay, of course. (As if he had any other choice!) And so it was mine. (It's still in my house. I squashed it in Devina's grandmother's Toyota as a momento)
On the side note, I felt quite guilty about the food and all, since Italliannes is a 90% cheese restaurant; I don't think Shuk ate much. And it's not cheap either so I think many scrimped on their food...
Aryl's leaving to another school too. I don't know why, but if someone else was leaving; I'd probably cry. But since it's me who's leaving everyone, it just feels like...... nothing. I don't know if I'm just selfish or.. something.
Ivan's friend, Timothy and Omar's friend came as well. (Sorry, I didn't seem to catch your name) Too bad Omar's friend was quite quiet around me though. I would just love to hear his 'gentlemanly' voice. And Timothy looked quite different from what expected. (which was the pic on his msn, I think) Keeren came too. But he didn't greet me... =(
12:04 AM
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
The first post is always the worst.
Anyway, I created this account on the 13th of November 2007 because I'm due to leave the country on the 26th of December. However, the reason for my departure is not exactly as sinister as it sounds. I am no fugitive, have killed no one and the worst crime I probably have done in the eyes of the law will probably be downloading manga and songs illegally or jay walking. I doubt they evict people out of the country for that though.
I have accepted a scholarship to resume my studies in Singapore.
I feel so strange saying that. For one thing, I am only FIFTEEN and I expected to spend at least another two years in Malaysia before skipping off overseas. The thing is, once I step on Singapore land, I doubt I'd be returning. Of course, coming back for the holidays and all is a necessity. However, if I do not manage to cope in Xinmin, I would still have to remain in Singapore - as its syllabus is remarkably different than of Malaysia's; the only difference is that the schooling fees would be paid from my parents' very own pockets. (or bank account) And I sincerely doubt they could afford it.
So its do or die.
When I was contemplating the scholarship, weighing my pros and cons; I almost panicked. After all, if I refuse - I might never get a chance to take up a scholarship to Singapore again. Even though I never actually intended to study there in the first place, it's still a somewhat threatening thought. I felt so nervous, thinking of all the opportunities I have at my reach and the problems I might face. I was in a complete Dilemma. (somehow, the stuff they taught us for Civics didn't help either. for those who don't know what I'm talking about, flip through our Form One text book)
I had already planned what I would do in the coming two years. (Rough draft) It would be as follows:
Form 4
Join:
Choir
English Society
Christian Fellowship
Wudo
Debate
Drama
(and try to become the President of at least one club the next year)
AND take up at least 12 subjects. - JPA scholars have to have a min of 12A1s along with other curricular stuff
Form 5
see above
(get 12A1s!!!!!)
- apply for scholarships to any college/fund/firm possible
Post SPM
- venture off overseas
It might not seem like much but it was something that I aspired to. Now that I have the ASEAN scholarship, I guess I have to strive towards ANOTHER scholarship that would pay for my college. I'm not sure if this means that I will be behind my friends in studies or not. After all, they would finish their Form 5 the same time I finish Sect 4. Although I will be directly heading off to JC, it's still a little longer than the Malaysian students will be doing.
And I'm also worried about the OTHER scholarship and the competition from other Singaporeans. Mrs. Lim had said that companies will put scholars instead of normal students first. However, I feel that Singaporeans will still be their first priority. All I can do is try to overcome whatever obstacles I might face. In fact, I'm also feeling nervous about the dormitory and stuff. Dorm mates, Room mates, Class mates, studying environment, stress, peer pressure, sickness. Whatever is it, you name it; I've already noted and am preparing myself emotionally for.
Yeah, if you can't tell already, I worry entirely too much. It's a habit, really.
I will also miss all my friends very, very much.
For instance, I've known Ivan for 11 years of my life - and we're parting. (He didn't even come for the last day of school, what a friend.) And Shuk, who I've been close friends with since we were eight. Wei Ann with her idiocy. Khye Chwin, the forum slave. Mei Yin and her inability to speak long words without messing it up (phisolophy indeed). Kar Yee and her soft yet squeaky, girlish voice. Jie Ying and her St.John duties. Omar and his freaky laughter. Bryan and his. Well, himself. Marcus talking about Gunz and how much a pro he was. Keith and the fact that he'll probably tower even more over me.
Really, I must stop before I get even more sentimental.
Subjects I'll probably be taking up:
English
Mother Tongue (Malay / Higher Malay) (no escape!!!!)
Elementary Mathematics
Additional Mathematics (hell awaits...!)
Physics
Chemistry
Biology (triple Science!!! oh noes!)
Combined Humanities (not sure what it comprises of...)
English Literature ("To kill a mockingbird" - in Sec 3, Midsummer's Night Dream - Sec 4, Mining for Meaning - Unseen Text for Sec 3 & 4)
Visit for more perspectives:
http://markeleven.blogspot.com/2007/01/is-singapore-scamming-malaysians-with.html
and here
http://educationmalaysia.blogspot.com/2007/01/asean-scholarship-lifes-experience.html
and here
http://educationmalaysia.blogspot.com/2005/12/seeking-singapore-education.html
and here
http://xangelcharl.blogspot.com/2007/01/asean-scholarship-would-you-do-it-all.html
2:24 PM
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
The things that happen in Malaysia, after exactly 50 years of independance, remains as it is; interesting.
I cannot say more as there are laws preventing free speech even in online blogs. Interesting, as I have already said.
http://news.my.msn.com/regional/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1115051
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wee_Meng_Chee
Well, at least Wee Meng Chee got his name on Wikipedia.
It suddenly seems so real that I'm going to Singapore to study once I've actually seen the boarding school and school. I guess the point never really hit home until I actually set foot on Singapore ground.
I'll talk about the school later...
And I bought about nine of my text books!! I'm delirious with happiness. The Science books, Chemistry, Biology and Physics look like encyclopedias with fully coloured pages and photographs on every other page! The papers used were also the high quality that what somewhat photo-paper-ish, if you know what I mean. The syllabus isn't boring either.
I have no idea why some people that Singapore is too exam orientated and does not promote thinking out of the box. I, for one; find it ridiculously creative (in a good way) in it's way of teaching. I even understand some parts of the Add Maths already. If that isn't a miracle, God knows what is.
All the subjects seem bright and lively, despite the fact that bright and lively can be hardly used to describe anything remotely related to studying. I was so attracted by the text books that it almost justifies anything that I find difficult to put up with in Singapore. The lack of library in my boarding school continues to gnaw at me, though. The literature text book what really interesting, although I still find it hard to interpret some of the poems.
The Additional Maths was a pain, as it was so complex that most of the questions made my head reel. I really do hate Mathematics. The Modern M3 wasn't that difficult although I might change my mind when I touch later chapters. I didn't get any English text books because the load was too heavy for me to carry all the way through Orchard Road.
And I have to take Civics, Geography and Social Studies. Geography and Social Studies are okay, probably because of the influence of their cool text books on me. Civics, I have no idea; no text book either. I didn't buy any of the Malay language books as well. It was first somewhat stressful when I found out that I had to take more subjects than I had intended to. If Biology, Chemistry and Physics were separate subjects, I would be taking a grand total of eleven subjects. I have no idea what the actual scheme is yet.
12:20 PM
Saturday, November 17, 2007
I just came across a real eye-opener. Looking through good books to read by google (in other words, I just search for random publishers for recommendations), I found a blog by an author. It was so exciting when I realised that the entries for her blog were PERFECTLY ORDINARY. I actually expected authors to live in different spectres of the universe, eventhough I aspire to become one. I makes me feel that my goal is so near, just within my reach...!
Even if sometimes I find it it hard to finish something I put my mind on; its still a start.
I'm just so happy...!
2:14 PM
Cute eh?
http://www.worryvsdonuts.com/?p=82
I just noticed that there's so many pieces of me floating about in cyberspace. In fact, a mere google search on my name and lots of things just... appear. Forums that I used to participate in, websites where I was foolish enough to use my actual name.
And so, I'm going to list all my previous blogs; parts of my life on the net here.
2nd March 2005 - 28th July 2006 :http://rebecca-c.livejournal.com/
27th May 2006 -12th November 2006 :http://silv-r-orb.livejournal.com
26th January 2007 - 21st September 2007:http://ex0plain0nation.livejournal.com/ (least updated)
I just feel so... full. I wonder if one day I might be able to publish my 'journals' after polishing them... I'm so glad that I left something of myself in this life. I'd be horrified should I die without leaving a mark on the world. It makes our existence so insignificant and pointless. I guess there's where religion comes in, but I just can't stop believing that God created us to do something big for Him. Perhaps the book I will write in future will help in His work.
This also reminds me on how I feel about my family and religion. It's just all so messy and wrong. I asked my sister whether she was afraid to go to hell just the other day, and she scoffed at me. SCOFFED! And she said she was a Christian purely because my mother was. All that thinking about afterlife and redemption really makes me feel sick to my stomach, especially when I know how imperfect I must be and also about facing my friends and family after death. Will we be in heaven or will we be in hell? Will it be my fault? Which is why I try not to think of such depressing matters. But I do realise that one day I really must spend some time on the subject.
I can think of a thousand things I want to say. But I only can think of few ways to say it.
Strange.
3:07 AM
Friday, November 16, 2007
Next week I'm going to Singapore to check out my new school. I'll probably put up some pictures here just to show what the school and dorm is actually like. I hope it doesn't differ too much from the images displayed in the website. It'd be a huge disappointment if it turns out to be, 'indah khabar dari rupa'. (I need to find out the English equivalent of that someday...) Haha.. I still have to polish my BM as I'm taking Higher Malay for GCSE.
(add info: GCSE - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Certificate_of_Secondary_Education)
I'm also changing my layout as this format does not allow comments - something that I find really annoying as the main point of this blog is to keep in touch with everyone.
The wonders of internet also continues to astound me.
Quote Ms. Lim: Many Malaysian scholars encounter problems with the Mathematics syllabus in Singapore, let me give you some idea on the topics that we cover in Secondary 3 & 4 - Algebra, Matrices, Trigonometry, Mensuration, Vectors.
And so I looked them up on wikipedia. The result was a big headache as I found it hard to comprehend many (any, actually) of the terms. Of course, I looked through the book Khye Chwin lent me but it's so different from the references online. The book is less complicated. And I really understand better through examples and problems than through definitions. Really, I think they use big words all the time just to torture poor students like me.
Combined Humanities.. I'm probably taking the Social Studies + Literature Elective, whatever that is- since I'm based on literature and stuff. I really hope I don't flunk.
What I'm most worried about now is the triple sciences. Physics, Biology and Chemistry are completely new subjects to me. Memorising what seems like mumbo jumbo and its terms don't really appeal. Worst of all, I'm so lazy to look through my books so as to gain a head start on the other students. Or at least a foundation of what I'll probably face since the students there are no doubt already far more advanced than I am - despite the fact that I'm repeating a grade.
Repeating a grade.
It's sounds so... degrading.
I guess its crucial as there is much to learn and the very next year will be my GCSE year. Still, it just feels so sad that I'll be a year older than practically all (hopefully except for the other scholars) students that will be studying there.
There's also my dormitory. According to my father, it's supposed to be for the Hwa Chong (Chong Hwa, anyone?) school, but since Xinmin isn't a boarding school, I'll be staying there instead. This also means that there's a 45 minute bus trip between my actual school and the place I'll be staying. Have I mentioned that I hate travelling? And I get lost in parking lots?
Is it any surprise why I'm feeling nervous about it?
In Hwa Chong, according to my teacher mentor, there is some sort of roll call(?) that will ensure all boarders are in the dormitories in the evening. After that, there's a two hour study peroid. Fun indeed.
And this is all for my future.
Links:
Boarding School (Hwa Chong): http://www.hcibs.edu.sg/
School (Xinmin) : http://www.xinminss.moe.edu.sg:1285/main/
2:48 PM
Thursday, November 15, 2007
And the time is messed up because I haven't adjusted them yet. I'm waiting till I get to Singapore.
12:39 AM
WOW.
What a day. Well, night actually. (Aliteration! Lookie!)
Anyway, I must first say that the presents were completely unexpected.
In fact, when I heard that so many people were coming, I was already shocked.
Okay, for those who don't know, (which I doubt are many) we had a farewell party in Italliannes (sp? I should check my balloon but I'm too sleepy and I want to finish this entry before the day ends) which was organized by Shuk Huay and Wei Ann. It was supposed to be a farwell party but Wei Ann spoilt it when I was complaining about her RM70.00 birthday present. (Quote: You better be appreciative about me sending so many sms for your farwell party)
I was supposed to go out with Shuk and Devina to 1U just to loiter and window shop on that day. I didn't know anything about the date for the party. (I knew there was going to be one, but wasn't sure exactly when) Until of course, Wei Ann ruined Shuk's plans. It's not that I'm unappreciative, though. It's just fun to be bitter about it.
After reaching 1U, (the experience on the way to Devina's house was also quite terrifying. I thought I might have been lost despite me going to her house at least three times already) Devina and I stopped by Itallianes to see if anyone was already there. No one was. As it was already 7, I thought that Shuk and the rest must have went to watch a movie or something. After all, the waiter said that Miss Koh (Kuh, he pronounced it) said that they would be there at 7.15. We both then decided to walk aimlessly to pass time. We went to F.O.S. (Factory Outlet Store or Full of Shit, courtesy of Shuk) and I made my first impulse buy. (RM20!)
(There were a few interludes where we were afraid that Becca See got kidnapped because she didn't reply our sms)
I guess it was a little late when we finally got there (I blame the impulse buy) and I was so shocked so see so many people. 30 seats doesn't sound like much on the paper, or even on the phone; but in flesh, 30 was overwhelming. I felt so happy that people actually took their time to come and say goodbye to me. They might have came to see their boyfriends or whatever, but wow. And I got plenty of presents!!!!! (unexpected. Really, they weren't necessary!!!!!)
Since I'm so proudddd of them, I'll list them down. (Hopefully I don't forget anything.) In no particular order, of course. I'll even write down the cost since almost all the presents had price tags on them or receipts. It's just funny. No offense, though.:
a) A BIBLE!
- Reaction: OMG! Never thought that anyone would get me a bible! THANK YOU! I always wanted a new one. Mine was getting frayed around the edges. PERFECT for when I attend my new church in Singapore. And it even comes with the most adorable of bags!!!!!
By: Shermaine, Keith, Bryan, Cheng Ken, Jie Yang, Hon Boon, Shu Ting and Fong
Cost: About RM 60++ (forgot, Shuk threw the receipt away), plus paper bag, who knows?
b) Minnie Mouse STUFFED TOY!!!
-Reaction: Cutest thing that ever existed!!!!! First stuffed toy that I've ever gotten that won't cause me respiratory problems! Love the lack of fur. And it's so cute and squeezable. Expect it squozen. THANKS!!!
By: Jing Li and/ <3 style="font-size:180%;">
c) WALLET
-Reaction: I've been wanting one for ages!!!! (Well, it helped that I complained quite a few times about my half dead one but it proves that you LISTEN!!!) And what a gorgeous one! (Love the colour, the design) Thankzzz.z.z.z.z..z.z.z. (<--- on purpose, btw) By: Khye Chwin, Jie Ying, Kar Yee and Wei Ann
Cost: RM35.90
d) Wheel of Time - ROBERT JORDAN Vol 1!!!!
-Reaction: Wanted to read this for ages! (Saw the series and thought it might be interesting. After all, there would only be a series of books only if the book was good!) Thanx!!!!!
By: Khye Chwin (birthday present)
Cost: Not going to mention it since I've already complained. ^_~ Seriously, once again, I'm not ungrateful or anything. It's just fun to note down and look back on all of it one day. (Like Keith's RM8.90 Purple Lizard Air-Freshener that Wei Ann destroyed the same day)
e) PENCIL BOX!!1!!!111111
-Reaction: Just nice! The deco is not messy and overdone; the colours simple enough to be gorgeous. The place I'll probably try to sneak my notes in during exams... ^_^ TQ!!!
By: Karen and Elaine!
Cost: There was a receipt, but I'm not going to mention the price since they might be hurt. =P
f) WATER BoTTle
-Reaction: Quote (Card): A place to keep my shit-water. (NeWater) Indeed. Bottle's cute though. And Aryl, you are NOT macho and handsome. THANK YEW!
By: Yew Weng and Aryl
Cost: No receipt/price tag! Woah!
g) PeN!!!!
-Reaction: Love the box. Love the pen. Love the sentiment. Hate the implication. Think I'm fat, huh? (Inside joke) TERIMA KASIH! THANK YOU! XIE XIE! NANDRI! ARIGATOU! (please say you guys didn't forget this from primary or I'll just..... be sad)
By: Kien Lam
Cost: Unavailable! Cool!
h) SWEATERRRRRR!!!!!!!
-Reaction: And there I was worried that I'd freeze to death in Singapore. There's school regulation jackets and I was kinda nervous about that too. And now with the jacket....!!!! It makes me look like a cool hip-hopper. (look, the imperative) THank YOu!!! xoxoXOXOX
By: Hao Yan!
Cost: Probably a lot. But I don't know... I really appreciate it!!!! <3
and last, but not least (a phrase I'll never be able to understand)
i)A STOLEN BALLOON!!! zomgwtfroflmao!!!!
-Reaction: "I dub thee my mallet of death!
By: Becca See and Devina
Cost: Nothing. It's STOLEN, you see. I guess they'll say that they risked life and limb for it. You see, there was a room behind our dining area which was probably employees only. It was full with Italliannes balloons. They sneaked in and STOLE the balloons before handing it to me. After my protests at it being STOLEN GOODS, they dutifully asked permission from the poor, put-upon, tortured, cornered waiter who was in charge of our section. He said it was okay, of course. (As if he had any other choice!) And so it was mine. (It's still in my house. I squashed it in Devina's grandmother's Toyota as a momento)
On the side note, I felt quite guilty about the food and all, since Italliannes is a 90% cheese restaurant; I don't think Shuk ate much. And it's not cheap either so I think many scrimped on their food...
Aryl's leaving to another school too. I don't know why, but if someone else was leaving; I'd probably cry. But since it's me who's leaving everyone, it just feels like...... nothing. I don't know if I'm just selfish or.. something.
Ivan's friend, Timothy and Omar's friend came as well. (Sorry, I didn't seem to catch your name) Too bad Omar's friend was quite quiet around me though. I would just love to hear his 'gentlemanly' voice. And Timothy looked quite different from what expected. (which was the pic on his msn, I think) Keeren came too. But he didn't greet me... =(
12:04 AM
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
The first post is always the worst.
Anyway, I created this account on the 13th of November 2007 because I'm due to leave the country on the 26th of December. However, the reason for my departure is not exactly as sinister as it sounds. I am no fugitive, have killed no one and the worst crime I probably have done in the eyes of the law will probably be downloading manga and songs illegally or jay walking. I doubt they evict people out of the country for that though.
I have accepted a scholarship to resume my studies in Singapore.
I feel so strange saying that. For one thing, I am only FIFTEEN and I expected to spend at least another two years in Malaysia before skipping off overseas. The thing is, once I step on Singapore land, I doubt I'd be returning. Of course, coming back for the holidays and all is a necessity. However, if I do not manage to cope in Xinmin, I would still have to remain in Singapore - as its syllabus is remarkably different than of Malaysia's; the only difference is that the schooling fees would be paid from my parents' very own pockets. (or bank account) And I sincerely doubt they could afford it.
So its do or die.
When I was contemplating the scholarship, weighing my pros and cons; I almost panicked. After all, if I refuse - I might never get a chance to take up a scholarship to Singapore again. Even though I never actually intended to study there in the first place, it's still a somewhat threatening thought. I felt so nervous, thinking of all the opportunities I have at my reach and the problems I might face. I was in a complete Dilemma. (somehow, the stuff they taught us for Civics didn't help either. for those who don't know what I'm talking about, flip through our Form One text book)
I had already planned what I would do in the coming two years. (Rough draft) It would be as follows:
Form 4
Join:
Choir
English Society
Christian Fellowship
Wudo
Debate
Drama
(and try to become the President of at least one club the next year)
AND take up at least 12 subjects. - JPA scholars have to have a min of 12A1s along with other curricular stuff
Form 5
see above
(get 12A1s!!!!!)
- apply for scholarships to any college/fund/firm possible
Post SPM
- venture off overseas
It might not seem like much but it was something that I aspired to. Now that I have the ASEAN scholarship, I guess I have to strive towards ANOTHER scholarship that would pay for my college. I'm not sure if this means that I will be behind my friends in studies or not. After all, they would finish their Form 5 the same time I finish Sect 4. Although I will be directly heading off to JC, it's still a little longer than the Malaysian students will be doing.
And I'm also worried about the OTHER scholarship and the competition from other Singaporeans. Mrs. Lim had said that companies will put scholars instead of normal students first. However, I feel that Singaporeans will still be their first priority. All I can do is try to overcome whatever obstacles I might face. In fact, I'm also feeling nervous about the dormitory and stuff. Dorm mates, Room mates, Class mates, studying environment, stress, peer pressure, sickness. Whatever is it, you name it; I've already noted and am preparing myself emotionally for.
Yeah, if you can't tell already, I worry entirely too much. It's a habit, really.
I will also miss all my friends very, very much.
For instance, I've known Ivan for 11 years of my life - and we're parting. (He didn't even come for the last day of school, what a friend.) And Shuk, who I've been close friends with since we were eight. Wei Ann with her idiocy. Khye Chwin, the forum slave. Mei Yin and her inability to speak long words without messing it up (phisolophy indeed). Kar Yee and her soft yet squeaky, girlish voice. Jie Ying and her St.John duties. Omar and his freaky laughter. Bryan and his. Well, himself. Marcus talking about Gunz and how much a pro he was. Keith and the fact that he'll probably tower even more over me.
Really, I must stop before I get even more sentimental.
Subjects I'll probably be taking up:
English
Mother Tongue (Malay / Higher Malay) (no escape!!!!)
Elementary Mathematics
Additional Mathematics (hell awaits...!)
Physics
Chemistry
Biology (triple Science!!! oh noes!)
Combined Humanities (not sure what it comprises of...)
English Literature ("To kill a mockingbird" - in Sec 3, Midsummer's Night Dream - Sec 4, Mining for Meaning - Unseen Text for Sec 3 & 4)
Visit for more perspectives:
http://markeleven.blogspot.com/2007/01/is-singapore-scamming-malaysians-with.html
and here
http://educationmalaysia.blogspot.com/2007/01/asean-scholarship-lifes-experience.html
and here
http://educationmalaysia.blogspot.com/2005/12/seeking-singapore-education.html
and here
http://xangelcharl.blogspot.com/2007/01/asean-scholarship-would-you-do-it-all.html
2:24 PM
