If I may borrow Barack Obama's words
"And so, my fellow Malaysians, ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country."
Go back and serve in the best way you can... congratulations to students graduating this year.
Balancing act
Given the opportunity, I would probably consider researching into the matter that would promote the understanding of balanced life as a means to suggest to developing countries that people need to have control over basic necessities in order to ascertain a degree of happiness and success/accomplishment in life. Having the chance to have studied and worked in New Zealand is one of those experiences that I've been privileged with and to compare and assimilate into my experience and understanding of different working cultures. I have to warn that I am no guru in this matter but still decided to write this matter of interests up to raise the for discussion.
The balance of work and life culture I would think is primarily subject to the cultural background of the society and community of interest. In other words, the work and life requirements may vary across different groups of people and would be dependent on the priorities of the individual. And usually, income becomes the driving force and for others the satisfaction of working in a role they have passion for. More or less, both restrictions (if I may call them so) if continually and overly pursued have had the tendency historically to cause failure in other areas of life. Examples like family bond deterioration's, marriage failure/divorce, juvenile delinquencies and unhealthy lifestyles. These situation do not apply to most people but I believe it is a trend that has steadily risen over the years and has become alarmingly difficult to comprehend its recurrence.
It could very well be due to the high expectations of exceeding norms, going the extra mile and securing goals in the most efficient of ways. And with that a high degree of pressure that people will have to cope with. In a time and age where speed, efficiency and efficacy is a daily norm. I personally believe that people have the higher tendency to approach relationships and family matters in the same manner. Which I think will probably not likely work. Relations with the people around should not be bound by the same methods applied in work, instead of efficiency, an effective approach would likely be the answer. Which would usually take a certain a degree of time invested and patience.
The working environment would be a different story to start of with, Martin Luther King quoted “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically... Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education.” Once graduates join the working force. Time becomes the essence, focus and attention is paramount. Those who are at the top are generally masters in efficiency, intelligence and character. With people struggling to be at the top, its to no surprise that people would work even harder to overcome greater obstacles. Instincts to survive kick in with the realization of there can be no failure.
There are probably some things that can be done. People need to be educated to understand these situation and try to prioritize different aspects of life as a whole. Government policies should restrict companies from overworking employees, suggest minimum wages, apply acceptable working hours and protect the labor market. All of these suggested steps would be dependent on the culture of the community and tweaked accordingly. It would also likely take time to implement and should be taken up gradually. The benefits of taking the approach to circumvent unecessary exploitation would promote a better quality of life, capitalization of a sustainable and stable society, and inherently provide a better future for the younger generation.
The balance of work and life culture I would think is primarily subject to the cultural background of the society and community of interest. In other words, the work and life requirements may vary across different groups of people and would be dependent on the priorities of the individual. And usually, income becomes the driving force and for others the satisfaction of working in a role they have passion for. More or less, both restrictions (if I may call them so) if continually and overly pursued have had the tendency historically to cause failure in other areas of life. Examples like family bond deterioration's, marriage failure/divorce, juvenile delinquencies and unhealthy lifestyles. These situation do not apply to most people but I believe it is a trend that has steadily risen over the years and has become alarmingly difficult to comprehend its recurrence.
It could very well be due to the high expectations of exceeding norms, going the extra mile and securing goals in the most efficient of ways. And with that a high degree of pressure that people will have to cope with. In a time and age where speed, efficiency and efficacy is a daily norm. I personally believe that people have the higher tendency to approach relationships and family matters in the same manner. Which I think will probably not likely work. Relations with the people around should not be bound by the same methods applied in work, instead of efficiency, an effective approach would likely be the answer. Which would usually take a certain a degree of time invested and patience.
The working environment would be a different story to start of with, Martin Luther King quoted “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically... Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education.” Once graduates join the working force. Time becomes the essence, focus and attention is paramount. Those who are at the top are generally masters in efficiency, intelligence and character. With people struggling to be at the top, its to no surprise that people would work even harder to overcome greater obstacles. Instincts to survive kick in with the realization of there can be no failure.
There are probably some things that can be done. People need to be educated to understand these situation and try to prioritize different aspects of life as a whole. Government policies should restrict companies from overworking employees, suggest minimum wages, apply acceptable working hours and protect the labor market. All of these suggested steps would be dependent on the culture of the community and tweaked accordingly. It would also likely take time to implement and should be taken up gradually. The benefits of taking the approach to circumvent unecessary exploitation would promote a better quality of life, capitalization of a sustainable and stable society, and inherently provide a better future for the younger generation.
Birthday wishes
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
I've just turned 21 again and boy is it a great feeling :D
I have to say I am ultimately grateful for having such good people around me wishing the best for me on my birthday. Starting from the morning of my day to the night itself, I can't express my gratitude for those that have organized this for me and those who have contacted me over facebook and text messages. I had an awesome day. As my new years/birthday resolution, I endeavor to be nicer to everyone around me, be compassionate of helping people, animals and of nature. It is my wish for everyone to have happiness and goodness in life, wish that we will all be closely in touch and wish for you to ascertain your wants to succeed in life as your greatest achievement irrespective of whatever you do. That is my birthday wish.
Its been quite a year for me, despite having all the rough edges in life,, I am feeling so happy and grateful, that this time, I've done something right for myself and my faith is stronger than ever. I could not ask for anything more.. I'm happy
My eloquence with words is usually described with less bombastic phrases.
To my family, I am forever grateful for having you with me and will always be in your debt
I wish to also take this opportunity to wish everyone well, and to those I've hurt in the past. I sincerely would like to apologize for my naivety and misapprehensions. I care for all my friends and wish our friendship will last for a lifetime.
Its always good to think positive as your get older, life is just too short =D
Yusuf
I have to say I am ultimately grateful for having such good people around me wishing the best for me on my birthday. Starting from the morning of my day to the night itself, I can't express my gratitude for those that have organized this for me and those who have contacted me over facebook and text messages. I had an awesome day. As my new years/birthday resolution, I endeavor to be nicer to everyone around me, be compassionate of helping people, animals and of nature. It is my wish for everyone to have happiness and goodness in life, wish that we will all be closely in touch and wish for you to ascertain your wants to succeed in life as your greatest achievement irrespective of whatever you do. That is my birthday wish.
Its been quite a year for me, despite having all the rough edges in life,, I am feeling so happy and grateful, that this time, I've done something right for myself and my faith is stronger than ever. I could not ask for anything more.. I'm happy
My eloquence with words is usually described with less bombastic phrases.
To my family, I am forever grateful for having you with me and will always be in your debt
I wish to also take this opportunity to wish everyone well, and to those I've hurt in the past. I sincerely would like to apologize for my naivety and misapprehensions. I care for all my friends and wish our friendship will last for a lifetime.
Its always good to think positive as your get older, life is just too short =D
Yusuf
Traditional versus modern
Thursday, October 16, 2008
I went to see Raja Nazrin's talk today and felt my trip down was time well spent. His talk on "Dialogue and diversity in the contemporary Islamic world" captivated my attention in his choice of words to diplomatically depict how Muslims are not much different than the Westerners in daily life and how Islamic teachings actually drive us towards modernization, ascertainment of economical security and self growth. His choice of words were intellegently and eloquently well versed.
Fortunately, I had a handy dictaphone to listen on in the lecture again some parts that I felt needed to be instilled and understood. His pragmatism should definitely be dicontohi to continuously pursue acceptance through dedication of attaining and deriving new knowldedge. I have to say that I wish there were some aspects of the Islamic contemporary world he'd emphasize on rather than focusing sole attention to Malaysia. I would think some of the people there would have not been able to relate to the lecture given unless they are from Malaysia or have been reading much about Malaysia. Nevertheless, the talk was enlightening and in some ways, I felt like a student again. I'm missing those thought provoking discussions and challenging enigmas that entertain my karat mind. If there were and elective on politics and economics in an MBA, that would be so cool.
His CV...impressive.. wish I had some of those words on my accademic school card. Not to mention his wife is really gorgeous too..
HRH Raja Dr Nazrin Shah holds a
BA(Hons) degree in Philosophy,
Politics and Economics from
Oxford University, a Master’s in
Public Administration from the
Kennedy School of Government,
Harvard University and a PhD in
Political Economy and Government
from Harvard University.
An interesting view that came to mind was when he mentioned that Malaysia's modern culture today has been heavily influenced by the Western world. I'm taking the assumption that this is because the western world pioneers much of the cultural advancements from technology and centuries of experience in developing their civilization. Our traditional ethnic cultures and ethics can be assimilated into this modern outlook and create a higher society of multi-ethnic groups and a society of acceptance (and not primarily tolerant).
Its a great thing knowledge and acceptance can do for us.
Fortunately, I had a handy dictaphone to listen on in the lecture again some parts that I felt needed to be instilled and understood. His pragmatism should definitely be dicontohi to continuously pursue acceptance through dedication of attaining and deriving new knowldedge. I have to say that I wish there were some aspects of the Islamic contemporary world he'd emphasize on rather than focusing sole attention to Malaysia. I would think some of the people there would have not been able to relate to the lecture given unless they are from Malaysia or have been reading much about Malaysia. Nevertheless, the talk was enlightening and in some ways, I felt like a student again. I'm missing those thought provoking discussions and challenging enigmas that entertain my karat mind. If there were and elective on politics and economics in an MBA, that would be so cool.
His CV...impressive.. wish I had some of those words on my accademic school card. Not to mention his wife is really gorgeous too..
HRH Raja Dr Nazrin Shah holds a
BA(Hons) degree in Philosophy,
Politics and Economics from
Oxford University, a Master’s in
Public Administration from the
Kennedy School of Government,
Harvard University and a PhD in
Political Economy and Government
from Harvard University.
An interesting view that came to mind was when he mentioned that Malaysia's modern culture today has been heavily influenced by the Western world. I'm taking the assumption that this is because the western world pioneers much of the cultural advancements from technology and centuries of experience in developing their civilization. Our traditional ethnic cultures and ethics can be assimilated into this modern outlook and create a higher society of multi-ethnic groups and a society of acceptance (and not primarily tolerant).
Its a great thing knowledge and acceptance can do for us.
People and Proton
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
I read two interesting blogs today one of which was talking about Protons plan to sell Lotus and the other specifically about human interactions. The first blog I read was Marina Mahathir's view on ethical behaviour. I was compelled by her title "Let the human in us not be coloured". Her eloquence is noted. Despite racial differences and the ever instinctual racial bias. Should the way we talk to others be weighted on any apparent physical outlook or the assumption of his/hers racial background? It is apparent sometimes that people just simply choose to be rude when they can be and probably have not realized how un-ethical their behaviour can be. In this time and age its easy to get away with words over the phone, Internet, email other media since the person accepting the message doesn't have an immediate counter effective way of talking back. Unless of course you are facing this person. Haven't our parents taught us to look them in when they talk to us? They were teaching us manners. These manners are slowly eroding in our civilization and in ways relates to the second blog I found.
Proton selling Lotus doesn't have much to do with racial discrepancies but please take the time read the comment section of posted entry. Unfortunately, it does depict to a degree the racial intolerance Malaysians have and its sad to say that we only have managed to get this far. I could also say that the people replying these comments are probably in their youths. Educated and across the board, many are able to speak up for themselves but as one commenter said. A person that will always find faults in the faults of others and not look at themselves first is truly an idiot. This is sadly the case as the story unfolded and I think he's right.
I can't claim to be dignified to be talking about this sensitive racial subject but as long as there is an ethical approach by all sides to bring the bread and butter to the table. I do think it would be much better than keeping quiet and not talking about it all and allowing the feelings of insecurity to churn more than ever till it pops like it just has. It is easy to know things by seeing things at a glance but to understand some things will take time.
I would like to apologize if I have tripped over any uncharted territory so to speak to cause any discomfort to anyone reading this.
Going to work, and bringing home some bread and butter...
Proton selling Lotus doesn't have much to do with racial discrepancies but please take the time read the comment section of posted entry. Unfortunately, it does depict to a degree the racial intolerance Malaysians have and its sad to say that we only have managed to get this far. I could also say that the people replying these comments are probably in their youths. Educated and across the board, many are able to speak up for themselves but as one commenter said. A person that will always find faults in the faults of others and not look at themselves first is truly an idiot. This is sadly the case as the story unfolded and I think he's right.
I can't claim to be dignified to be talking about this sensitive racial subject but as long as there is an ethical approach by all sides to bring the bread and butter to the table. I do think it would be much better than keeping quiet and not talking about it all and allowing the feelings of insecurity to churn more than ever till it pops like it just has. It is easy to know things by seeing things at a glance but to understand some things will take time.
I would like to apologize if I have tripped over any uncharted territory so to speak to cause any discomfort to anyone reading this.
Going to work, and bringing home some bread and butter...
Travels
Sunday, September 14, 2008
I've been fortunate enough in my early days to have traveled to a few places where my parents were sent to on duty. Having the short affair with the countries of chance has given me the opportunity to get some insight of the world around me and to gradually understand the differences in culture and perception of each race I've encountered. I have regressed a bit on my adventures since having moved to NZ about 6 years ago but have plans to travel once again soon.
New Delhi,
Now, I rarely get to meet people that share their experiences visiting India let alone think much of it as a tourist destination. As I was born there and have since many pictures taken in my first 5 years. My memories of the place are quite vague yet the pictures have shown me the many places I've visited and done there. I can honestly say that there is so much to look forward to in India, culturally and historical infrastructures that still stand to this day.
"Jantar Mantar was an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II" - Wikipedia
I have pictures being here but samar-samar. I recalled it as a playground where my friends and I were playing tag. Who knew it'd be an astronomical observatory!
The India Gate commemorates Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War 1 - Wikipedia
I think I've been here...
The Akshardham Temple is a Hindu Temple in New Delhi - Wikipedia
I haven't heard of this place. I'm sure my parents have been here though.
Its amazing how these infrastructures have lasted throughout the years. Thanks to the Indian people that have preserved these fabulous building for the people of today to see. There is always something fascinating about history that you can't quite put into words. Its an emblem of beauty and experience that gave them the impetus to construct such beautiful buildings for us to see. When arriving at such places, you can't help but feel humbled by its greatness.
Amongst the places I would like to see the most now is the Taj Mahal.
There is probably no need for any long explanation to introduce the Mumtaz Mahal, or better known as Taj Mahal. Its absolutely stunning from up close. In the evening you can see the reflection of the Taj on the stream of water laid in front. I've quoted some words from Wikipedia that depicts the Taj and read what Shah Jahan himself described the Taj. Wow.
In 1631, Shah Jahan, emperor during the Mughal empire's period of greatest prosperity, was griefstricken when his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, died during the birth of their fourteenth child, Gauhara Begum. The court chronicles of Shah Jahan's grief illustrates the love story traditionally held as an inspiration for Taj Mahal. The construction of Taj Mahal begun soon after Mumtaz's death with the principal mausoleum completed in 1648. The surrounding buildings and garden were finished five years later.Empror Shah Jahan himself described the Taj in these words:
"Should guilty seek asylum here, Like one pardoned, he becomes free from sin. Should a sinner make his way to this mansion, All his past sins are to be washed away. The sight of this mansion creates sorrowing sighs; And the sun and the moon shed tears from their eyes. In this world this edifice has been made; To display thereby the creator's glory".
It is a beautiful Muslim world heritage that is a must see. Look at the caligraphy on the wall!
Personally, I am inspired by the sheer greatness of this building as it is not simply a building with looks from the outside but it has essence that was built in the name of love that has lasted to this day. I hope I didn't sound mushy, but I really think that the notion is really extraordinary, true love?
I would try to build one but I just don't have the money. Building a miniature set counts right? haha.
Anyway, I hope that I didn't sound as if I was bragging about being there rather I'm encouraging those that haven't to try going here. Its cleansing that now we have the Internet and can see things online but it beats seeing the thing in real life by a long shot. My parents loved it and they have called me up to meet them there sometime next year and see all the great places we've been to. Insyallah
I would definitely recommend it as a place to visit especially for those who have just married and have plans to go on a honeymoon. Lots of things to do.
Here is a pic of me I think in Nepal. Cuakla ok, first horse ride.
Closing remarks...
"The most wonderful of all things in life, I believe, is the discovery of another human being with whom one's relationship has a glowing depth, beauty, and joy as the years increase. This inner progressiveness of love between two human beings is a most marvelous thing, it cannot be found by looking for it or by passionately wishing for it. It is a sort of Divine accident." Sir Hugh Walpoe
New Delhi,
Now, I rarely get to meet people that share their experiences visiting India let alone think much of it as a tourist destination. As I was born there and have since many pictures taken in my first 5 years. My memories of the place are quite vague yet the pictures have shown me the many places I've visited and done there. I can honestly say that there is so much to look forward to in India, culturally and historical infrastructures that still stand to this day.
"Jantar Mantar was an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II" - Wikipedia
I have pictures being here but samar-samar. I recalled it as a playground where my friends and I were playing tag. Who knew it'd be an astronomical observatory!The India Gate commemorates Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War 1 - Wikipedia
I think I've been here...The Akshardham Temple is a Hindu Temple in New Delhi - Wikipedia
I haven't heard of this place. I'm sure my parents have been here though.
Its amazing how these infrastructures have lasted throughout the years. Thanks to the Indian people that have preserved these fabulous building for the people of today to see. There is always something fascinating about history that you can't quite put into words. Its an emblem of beauty and experience that gave them the impetus to construct such beautiful buildings for us to see. When arriving at such places, you can't help but feel humbled by its greatness.
Amongst the places I would like to see the most now is the Taj Mahal.
There is probably no need for any long explanation to introduce the Mumtaz Mahal, or better known as Taj Mahal. Its absolutely stunning from up close. In the evening you can see the reflection of the Taj on the stream of water laid in front. I've quoted some words from Wikipedia that depicts the Taj and read what Shah Jahan himself described the Taj. Wow.
In 1631, Shah Jahan, emperor during the Mughal empire's period of greatest prosperity, was griefstricken when his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, died during the birth of their fourteenth child, Gauhara Begum. The court chronicles of Shah Jahan's grief illustrates the love story traditionally held as an inspiration for Taj Mahal. The construction of Taj Mahal begun soon after Mumtaz's death with the principal mausoleum completed in 1648. The surrounding buildings and garden were finished five years later.Empror Shah Jahan himself described the Taj in these words:
"Should guilty seek asylum here, Like one pardoned, he becomes free from sin. Should a sinner make his way to this mansion, All his past sins are to be washed away. The sight of this mansion creates sorrowing sighs; And the sun and the moon shed tears from their eyes. In this world this edifice has been made; To display thereby the creator's glory".
It is a beautiful Muslim world heritage that is a must see. Look at the caligraphy on the wall!
Personally, I am inspired by the sheer greatness of this building as it is not simply a building with looks from the outside but it has essence that was built in the name of love that has lasted to this day. I hope I didn't sound mushy, but I really think that the notion is really extraordinary, true love?
I would try to build one but I just don't have the money. Building a miniature set counts right? haha.
Anyway, I hope that I didn't sound as if I was bragging about being there rather I'm encouraging those that haven't to try going here. Its cleansing that now we have the Internet and can see things online but it beats seeing the thing in real life by a long shot. My parents loved it and they have called me up to meet them there sometime next year and see all the great places we've been to. Insyallah
I would definitely recommend it as a place to visit especially for those who have just married and have plans to go on a honeymoon. Lots of things to do.
Here is a pic of me I think in Nepal. Cuakla ok, first horse ride.
Closing remarks..."The most wonderful of all things in life, I believe, is the discovery of another human being with whom one's relationship has a glowing depth, beauty, and joy as the years increase. This inner progressiveness of love between two human beings is a most marvelous thing, it cannot be found by looking for it or by passionately wishing for it. It is a sort of Divine accident." Sir Hugh Walpoe
Path
Friday, September 12, 2008
Since its Ramadhan, I thought I'd talk about what little I've learned so far and if you don't mind, just hope to share. It is the time to fast and persevere with living in lax of things we'd normally have and do during the day. Aside having to refrain from eating and drinking, there is also the spiritual side of fasting. I probably shouldn't test the knowledge of my readers as they probably know better than I do of these things i.e avoid cakap tak elok things and refrain from exerting unnecessary anger to others.
In fact, should a person be touted with troubles. The person should say "Saya sedang berpuasa - I am fasting" and walk away from confrontation. Sissy as it may sound, it is a true test of preseverence depending on how well you can handle the situation, sabar - patience. Though we do need to be patient in every way, it definitely doesn't mean that should a person start chasing after you and threaten to beat you up, you come up and say the same line again. no. You'd be probably getting a knuckle sandwich to break your fast with and teeths for appetizers. Lol
Ramadhan is truly the month that we really know who we are as everything in our lives will be perfect in this period of time. Gods blessings are upon us in this holy month. All the devils are chained and barred from any activity to distract us. Who would distract us now except for ourselves?
Life these days are tough. Expectation to succeed and self pursuit of greater accomplishments are the driving factor (for me at least) to work harder to ascertain the goal. And yes, in total honestly, its probably worth it. But at the end of the day, I realised my head is always filled with details, an influx of information overload, and ceases my mind to be else where than it should be. It even dilutes into my prayers. It's embarrassing to admit but my body is praying but my mind and heart are somewhere in the world of materialists. Actually, I can confidently say, everyone is the same ahaha, I'm not going to feel too bad. That said, I thought it was some devil whispering thoughts into my head.
What I'm trying to say after this long and convoluted post is, pursue life as you wish, but strengthen yourselves with beliefs that this life doesn't terminate as soon as we reach our goals. I probably realized that I've been chasing after a dream, maybe a little too much kot, of wealth and all the worldly goodies. I am myself to blame for forgetting that there is more to life than just life. There is the afterlife. So yeah, better start getting good credit ratings to apply for a one way trip ticket to the later on life. Sembahyang tu focus ...ingat-ingat skit.
Puasa kat NZ best betul tahun ni. Berbuka kul 6 feels like eating lunch and my sahur is like dinner..boleh?
In fact, should a person be touted with troubles. The person should say "Saya sedang berpuasa - I am fasting" and walk away from confrontation. Sissy as it may sound, it is a true test of preseverence depending on how well you can handle the situation, sabar - patience. Though we do need to be patient in every way, it definitely doesn't mean that should a person start chasing after you and threaten to beat you up, you come up and say the same line again. no. You'd be probably getting a knuckle sandwich to break your fast with and teeths for appetizers. Lol
Ramadhan is truly the month that we really know who we are as everything in our lives will be perfect in this period of time. Gods blessings are upon us in this holy month. All the devils are chained and barred from any activity to distract us. Who would distract us now except for ourselves?
Life these days are tough. Expectation to succeed and self pursuit of greater accomplishments are the driving factor (for me at least) to work harder to ascertain the goal. And yes, in total honestly, its probably worth it. But at the end of the day, I realised my head is always filled with details, an influx of information overload, and ceases my mind to be else where than it should be. It even dilutes into my prayers. It's embarrassing to admit but my body is praying but my mind and heart are somewhere in the world of materialists. Actually, I can confidently say, everyone is the same ahaha, I'm not going to feel too bad. That said, I thought it was some devil whispering thoughts into my head.
What I'm trying to say after this long and convoluted post is, pursue life as you wish, but strengthen yourselves with beliefs that this life doesn't terminate as soon as we reach our goals. I probably realized that I've been chasing after a dream, maybe a little too much kot, of wealth and all the worldly goodies. I am myself to blame for forgetting that there is more to life than just life. There is the afterlife. So yeah, better start getting good credit ratings to apply for a one way trip ticket to the later on life. Sembahyang tu focus ...ingat-ingat skit.
Puasa kat NZ best betul tahun ni. Berbuka kul 6 feels like eating lunch and my sahur is like dinner..boleh?
