The Babyboss Story

Christmas Wish List

2009-10-26T01:47:00.008+08:00

Christmas is just around the corner and I think its now about time to start planning and drafting out Christmas "wish list". I don't ask for much...just that few same old stuffs all the time. Its obvious that I can't exactly afford any of them, thus my wish list. You may contribute any of the items listed below, you may also give cash, either in full or part. Of course, if you so wish to, you can also use your credit card and enjoy up to 24 months interest free installments.

Here are some of the items that I know I can't afford to buy myself. Maybe you may want to consider?

MacBook Pro 15" @ around RM8,000+

Nikon D3S with AF-S 24-70 f2.8G ED @ around RM23,000

Nikon AF-S 14-24 f2.8G ED @ around RM6,000+

Nikon AF-S 70-200 f2.8G ED VRII @ around RM7,000

Nikon AF-S 200-400 f4 ED VR @ around RM26,000+

Feel free to leave me your feedbacks regarding any of the items above. I am an easy man, very flexible too...so, no worries. Oh ya, I still have not gotten my BMW335i and if anyone of you feel gracious enough...its RM497,000 on the road, without insurance.

Merry Christmas!

Money

2009-10-21T23:12:00.002+08:00

Truths about money...

With money you can buy a house, but not a home.
With money you can buy a clock, but not a time.
With money you can buy a bed, but not sleep.
With money you can buy a book, but not knowledge.
With money you can see a doctor, but not good health.
With money you can buy a position, but not respect.
With money you can buy blood, but not life.
With money you can buy sex, but not love.

But without money...I also die. That's why we need to strike a proper balance in everything we do. That is also why we need...GOD.

Beyonce's Concert "Postponed"!!!

2009-10-20T02:41:00.005+08:00

Beyonce has closed the door on Malaysia...yet again. And frankly, I actually don't blame her.

According to concert organizers Marctensia, a much anticipated and embattled concert set for October 25 has been postponed until further notice. Issuing a statement Monday, Marctensia told media outlets that the decision was solely Beyonce's and her management's call. "The postponement is solely the decision of the Artiste and has nothing to do with other external reasons," said Marctensia.

"The Organisers sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused." Refunds are available for fans who purchased tickets to attend the October 25 show via Ticket Axcess. As previously reported, Beyonce had faced much opposition from local Muslim groups who deemed her choice of dress inappropriate.

"We oppose the holding of such concerts and we will take action to prevent it,' a spokesman for PAS said in a statement earlier this year. "Her skimpy attire and behaviour onstage are immoral and lead to unclean behaviour." Beyonce canceled a concert here in KL two years ago but had vowed to return. A statement from Beyonce and her management is expected to be provided at a later date.

What a blardy blow...yet again!!! "Malaysia Boleh"...my foot!!!

Run For Your Life lor...

2009-10-18T18:09:00.002+08:00

I had to delete my most recent blog post because I just found out that the client I was referring to in the post is now reading my blog and my Facebook shouts outs.

Hahaha....lari ooo...

SkyTrex Adventure

2009-09-27T14:44:00.009+08:00

A few weeks ago, I was commissioned to cover a NuSkin event. They made a trip to SkyTrex Adventure at Bukit Cahaya, Shah Alam. It was an awesome 3hrs spent there despite the scorching hot sun (though the tall trees formed good shelters) and the mosquito feeding sessions! It was a great place for such group outings as the environment there was clean and organised.

SkyTrex Adventure provides varying aerial trails which guarantees hours of fun and excitement for people of all ages, though the recommended age is 10 to 50, depending on your physical fitness level. The challenges are not killing but they do require some form of body fitness to complete. So, if you have never done any kind of sport in your life, then this may not be for you.

SkyTrex Adventure is certified by cete Apave Sudeurope, the maian body of control for high rope course and for rock climbing equipment in France. The circuit was constructed and is managed in conformance to AFNOR standards for high rope course.

There are basically 3 adventure trails and 1 "Jump Start" trail where everybody have to go through as part of the introduction and training session. The 3 adventure trails are "Little Adventure" for kids (though adults can also do, if they so prefer to), The Big Thrill and The Extreme Challenge.

You need to be at least 140cm in height and not more than 100kg in weight. The rates are RM25 (Little Adventure), RM35 (Big Thrill) and RM40 (Extreme Challenge). For more info, you can visit SkyTrex Adventure.

Here are pictures from the event.

The group picture before taking up the challenges!

First, everybody take their gears and get themselves strapped up. This is compulsory for everyone who wants to take part in the challenges.

A staff helping a participant strap up her gear

These are really heavy duty gears

All strapped up, ready to go!

The guy in white t-shirt is Julian, the person-in-charge of SkyTrex Adventure, giving a technical briefing to all the participants. Obviously, not everybody was listening.

One last photo before embarking the challenges ahead

SkyTrex technical staff doing a demo on how to use the equipment

Everyone watched attentatively as the demo is conducted

This is the "Jump Start" station where everybody have to go through before taking on any of the actual challenges.

Here you go...doing a "flying fox" stunt some 100-over feet from tree to tree

I think this is the tallest tree you'd ever get to climb safely. Here it is...the first challenge of "The Big Thrill"

A participant completing her challenge

Mid-way of "The Extreme Challenge"

Flying fox in action!

A team after completing all the challenges

The main entrance to SkyTrex Adventure. There is also a "Sky Deck" (on the left) for hanging out.

Overall, an awesome outing. If you want to organise something similar to this, you can contact the management of SkyTrex directly and make your booking appointment. Bookings are highly recommended as they are always very busy in the weekends.

Have fun!

Money Killer

2009-09-19T22:48:00.004+08:00

I realised that a few of my close friends and associates are beginning to "avoid" me by not taking up my calls, not replying to my text messages and emails. All because of the same reason...MONEY.

Yes, all these guys owe me money, mostly from events and services that I rendered and my due fees not paid. The smallest amount was a few hundred bucks and the biggest is RM2,300. One guy even blammed me for being pushy [he owed me RM1,500 from a Feb 2008 event]. He said I was "penny wise pound foolish" and have lost several big jobs from his company because of my chasing for the outstanding 1.5k. Gosh...its over a year outstanding...what am I suppose to do...sit and wait? Dur!

One guy, after not picking up my calls, sent me a text message saying that my money is only available end of the month. But my purpose of calling him was not to ask for the money but to give him an event job! He is now either really soooo busy and not being able to call me back or simply just "avoiding" me. It is such a pity that things have to turn out this way.

I am ok if you tell me the truth and admit that you don't have the money to pay me now. Give me a date and I can wait. But don't let the outstanding amount float aimlessly and as it is now...to and extend to "avoiding" me. Don't let money come in the way of a good working relationship. Be accountable and deal with the situation "head on".

Sometimes, money can really turn up the dark side of a person's personality and forcing him to respond with unwise actions. Well, I want my money, no doubt...but I also want to retain that working relationship that we had.

A Day Trip To Malacca

2009-09-17T00:43:00.008+08:00

Two weeks ago, my church organised a day trip to the historical town of Malacca. The day's agenda consist of two primary objectives, i.e., to attend Ps Edmund Smith's church service on Sunday morning and also to feast on the yummy food of Malacca. Altogether, 14 of us joined the trip and it was awesome. Thanks to my borrowed GPS, we drove around Malacca confidently.

We departed KL at around 8:30am and reached Malacca around 10am. We parked our cars at Mahkota Parade and walked over to church service. And spent the rest of the day waling around the Malacca town hunting for good food everywhere we went. Pictures taken mostly by Mabel's Nikon D80 and some with my Canon IXUS70.

Ps Edmund's church, "Real Love Ministry" (RLM) was a small church of around 20+ people, something like my own church. It was located on the 1st floor of a business area just 5 minutes walk from Mahkota Parade, where we parked our cars. The worship was simple but awesome. The message was "entertaining" but spiritually meaningful.

Ps Edmund was an ex-gay and have lived a lifestyle of homosexuality. But God transformed his life some many years ago and he is now living a happily married life with 2 beautiful children...and one wife. His current core ministry is reaching out to the marginalised community of the gays and lesbians, proclaiming God's sexual wholeness back into their lifes.

After church service, we headed straight for lunch...the famous "chicken rice balls" at Jonker Street. Actually, its nothing special besides the rice being served in the form of "golf balls". Taste wise...ok ler.

Walking along Jonker Street, one will surely bump into this guy...a wooden statue with a grinning face!

And there it is...just bought my new Japanese Samurai "Katana" sword. Two years ago, I bought a Chinese kungfu sword from this same shop in Jonker Street. This Katana looks great with superb carvings on the holder and awesome craftsmanship. Most of all, its only RM25!!!

Colorful flip-flops on display along Jonker Street, a place where you can find lots of beautiful things from handycrafts to t-shirts to girls' accessories to cool shades and of course, flip-flops!

This is the famous "Famosa Chicken Rice Ball" shop.

After a good long walk up and down of Jonker Street, its good time for some superb cooling ice-kacangs topped with awesome "gula Melaka". Again, this shop is full and jam-packed with people but we were lucky enough to find two separate tables for all 14 of us.

And yes, my ice-kacang with "red beans and jagung only" tasted great in a hot sweaty afternoon.

But that was not enough, at least not until I have a go at their Baba Laksa! Considering its a tourist spot, it was not too expensive at RM3.50 a bowl.

A "Malacca trip" will not be complete, not unless a picture is taken here at the famous Christ Church near the clock tower.

Here is most of us, up at St Paul's hill. Everyone seem to be pointing at the same angle...not bad.

The sword means "violence" while the Bible brings in "peace and love". And me...brings in joy and happiness! haha...

Here it is...my Katana fully drawn out in full length. Its coated in black for superior durability and strength!

Oh, here it is again. haha...

Our second last item in the agenda was the visit to Menara Taming Sari. The picture says it all. It takes you all the way up and offers one a superb view of almost the entire Malacca town!

The bird's eye view of Dataran Pahlawan and mahkota Parade

The Eye of Malaysia in Malacca

Part of the Malacca town...the Jonker Street area

An aeriel view of the only public swimming pool in Malacca...a view 100+ feet above ground

Inside the cabin of the Menara Taming Sari

A random pic I took of Shaun using Mabel's Nikon D80. I think its nice...

And the last agenda of the day was a good baba nyonya dinner before we leave. Did a search on the internet and we were led to patronise this restaurant called "Bibik Neo". Funny name it is but the food was no doubt...awesome!

We left Malacca town at 8:15pm and the GPS faithfully guided us through the roads of Malacca town and we all reached home safely.

An Evening With Elvis Presley

2009-09-09T17:54:00.008+08:00

Elvis Aaron Presley (January 8, 1935 – August 16, 1977) was an American singer and actor. A cultural icon, he is commonly known simply as Elvis and is also sometimes referred to as The King of Rock 'n' Roll or simply just "The King". Elvis began his career in 1954. He had a versatile voice and he had unusually wide success encompassing many genres, including rock n roll, gospel, blues, country, ballads and pop.

Of course, as we all know, Elvis is dead. But his legend still lives on until this day with many die-hard followers of his impersonating The King. And in Malaysia itself, we have a few of such impersonators, two of which are my personal friends.

About a month ago, there was this special gathering where all the local Elvises came together and made a simple concert. I was privileged to be the events photographer. Here are some pics.

Some of Elvis' posters and albums on display at the event

The event host was His Sanctuary Glory Church at OUG, KL

Two "Elvises" meeting together. The one of the right is H T Long, my friend and probably the best Malaysian Elvis.

This was the 1st Elvis to perform. Not too bad but movements were a lil slow and voice so-so only lar.

The crowd at the event

This is Alex, also my friend. He is the latest and the youngest Elvis in Malaysia. I think, in my personal opinion, he is probably the best Elvis impersonator thus far. He has great Elvis moves and a superb Elvis voice. Go and search for images of the late Elvis and you will find many similar postures...the bended right leg called "the twist"!

This is "Michael Jackson". And I have no idea what's he doing here!

Another Elvis impersonator. Hmmm...so-so only lar. Weak voice.

This is my bro...H T Long! Probably the 2nd best Elvis impersonator in Malaysia after Alex. But Long is very experienced and a long time Elvis impersonator while Alex is new. But Alex is much younger and always displaying more aggressive moves.

And here we have another Elvis...the senior pastor of HSG Church, Rev Christopher Long!!! Cool, pastor!

"Old Elvis" giving a brand new pair of Elvis shades to "young Elvis". The shades are original merchandise from Graceland, US.

Here we have young Elvis "Alex" in his jump suit, doing this stuffs with his new Elvis shades on!

Alex interacting with the audience

A typical Elvis move by Alex

CD sales were great after the show

H T Long entertaining autographs requests from fans

And the final picture...I introduce to you..."Babyboss Elvis"

For your info, I was wearing Alex's new Elvis shades from H T Long, all the way from Graceland, US.

Away

2009-08-27T00:45:00.005+08:00

Its time for a break!

Will be away for a few days up in the mountains doing nothing but sipping fresh tea and enjoying the cool breeze, watching the locals go through their daily routines and having a small taste of what its like living in the rural areas.

I am only bringing up my compact Canon IXUS70 in case I really decide to put on my shooting instinct. Otherwise, absolutely pure "hanging around" and no "work". May bring home a few pics, I guess.

When I am back, I will show you my pictures taken with the late legendary Elvis Presley! Till then, take care and have a great week.

Resolution Test

2009-08-23T18:18:00.005+08:00

Trying to figure out which resolution setting is best for Blogspot. Some how, for some funny reasons, my picstures here at Blogspot don't seem to be sharp and clean.

A Shitty Day

2009-08-20T22:23:00.005+08:00

Today is a sick day. Not as in medically sick but emotionally, morally and ethically sick. Not that I did something wrong or bad but it was a business associate who made havoc! Let me try to piece everything together and write a good story. Hmm, where and how should I start?

Gosh, I have written a whole lot but decided to delete everything about it. I am not sure who reads this blog and if my post would further agitate the issue. All I know is, I have literally lost a super huge business opportunity thats worth millions! I hope the situation don't get any worst as it may cause me everything that I have in this project.

As I write, my associate, M is now trying hard to restore the situation and resolve the problem. While F, my the other associate, who "ignited" the problem, is not within reach. And me, stuck in between not knowing what to do cause I was not there when the incident happened. Its a horrible feeling to sit around filled with anxiety but can't do anything.

Its a shitty day!

Babyboss @ Coco Banana

2009-08-16T03:42:00.013+08:00

Just completed a simple event for an insurance company on Friday. It was jointly organised by 10 agencies from ING Insurance. They wanted to do a dinner-dance thingy and they wanted a disco-club environment. I proposed to them three venues, namely Zouk (Jalan Ampang), Mist (Bangsar) and Coco Banana (Sunway Pyramid). To cut the long story short, the client finally decided to have their event at Coco Banana.

Working with the people from Coco Banana was easy and pleasant. They were very accommodating and everything went smoothly. Zouk was a lil strict and less flexible. Euphoria Ministry Of Sound (Sunway Resort Hotel) was extremely strict and least "helpful". Aloha KL can't exactly accommodate 150 people and they don't have a decent dance floor.

The only grumble I received that night was on the "black pepper beef". Apparently many of the guests don't take beef...some religion thingy, I was told. One bloke even came up to me furiously asking me why I served beef. I said the buffet menu was submitted to the organising committee and they approved it! Anyway, that was just one grumpy man. Everything else went great.

Atmosphere was good, food was ok, awards were fun and the dance was crazy. Now I know why they themed the evening "ING Crazy Nite". Here are some pics from the evening. All (most of it, actually) images taken by Babyboss photographer, Sandra Wong, using her brand new Nikon D300 at ISO1,250. Image quality is stunning from the D300.

This is Cassandra...the emcee for the evening. Nice gal.

The front wall of Coco Banana

The rotating color-changing tunnel entrance...cool concept.

Main entrance to Coco Banana...the area where the security personnel and bouncers stand guard every night.

Here with the other co-emcee (the one in front of me)

This is Stone, Coco Banana's assistant operation manager...in front of the buffet line. Check out the pizzas!

Nice candles shot by Sandra

Just waiting to start the dinner

There it is...dinner is served. A few minutes later, one uncle complained about the beef thingy.

Black pepper beef...the most unpopular dish of the evening. So, I ate all the beef lor.

Agency managers having a breather outside the club...for some fresh air, I suppose.

I climbed up onto the subwoofer speakers to grab this shot. Zoomed the lens during the 1/8th secs exposure.

I look kinda "red" in this pic...maybe too much Carlsberg!

That's crazy nite!

With the organising chairlady, my boss and client...Serene Chong.

The DJ and his console

More crazy nite stuffs!

A final closing speech from...erm, I think their Director of Agency (DOA) or some sort

Beer + beer = lots of beer!

We were only allowed to use the place till 10:30pm after which Coco Banana opened its doors to walk-in customers and resume their business as usual. We were given a huge corner in the VIP area and all remanding booze and drinks were sent to the tables. We were all allowed to stay back and party if we want. Nice...!

A final "yam seng" before calling it a nite.

At the end, everyone was happy and I was happy that my clients were happy. Full payment paid to me, full payment paid to Coco Banana. Case closed. Till next time!

Happening Events

2009-08-11T13:51:00.010+08:00

Its been like over a week since my last blog post. Its not like I am overly loaded with work or anything like that but somehow...I have been pretty occupied. Had an event or two to plan, some meetings to attend to, a shoot here and there. And of course, my church commitments.

Just completed an event last Saturday at PGRM, Cheras. Managed to steal some time before the event to attend church at 3:30pm. We had a guest speaker, so I had to be there. Dashed back to PGRM by 7pm to execute the event.

When I left at 3pm, this was how the hall looked.

And then, it became like this at 8pm.

Nice huge crowd of 1,750 people (175 tables). Everything went perfect. Most importantly, the client was happy. The company's CEO came up to me at the sound console to personally thank me. I guess that means he is happily satisfied, rite?

Will be doing another smaller event this Friday evening. An insurance company's agency challenge dinner-cum-awards presentation. They themed it "Crazy Nite". And I can see why since its gonna be held at Coco Banana...a local hotspot dance club at Sunway Pyramid.

The organising chairlady was very professional and understood event management practise. She did not discount me, not even a single sen! And made my life very easy. And as of yesterday (Monday), she has already released to me 100% full payment!!! I appreciate this type of clients and I am encouraged to give her my best services, maybe even throw in an extra here and there. Complimentary free (means I have to pay lar) VIP parking bay for her right infront of the club entrance. Maybe complimentary free pics from Babyboss Pictures!

Will upload some pics from the event this weekend. I will try to have a pic with this organising lady and show you who she is.

And one final exciting job...a shoot in Langkawi. No just an ordinary 1-2 days event shoot but to be based in Langkawi and to cover EVERYTHING in and about Langkawi! From aerial to underwater to ground photography. From tourist spots to local culture and lifestyle photography. Likely to spend like a month or so there. Never done such an assignment before and this one should be very exciting. Hope the job is confirmed. [keeping fingers crossed]

If the job is on, I will definitely actively blog and keep posted of my "daily life" there. Should be having lots of very nice and exciting pictures to show! If anyone of you happens to be in Langkawi around October, call me...I have lots of time to hang out! Let's hope the job is on...

My Birthday Barbie-Q

2009-08-01T04:09:00.018+08:00

It was supposed to be just a "BBQ-for-fun" thingy but turned around and kinda became a semi-birthday party. My birthday! Actually, my actual birthday is on July 28.

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Anyway, it was filled with loads of fun. Almost everyone from my church, Revival One, came. We even had some new friends. Had a great time fellowshipping, chit-chatting and laughter everywhere.

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A total of 93 pictures have been selected and they are all uploaded at Revival One's Facebook page. Click HERE to jump to the gallery now! With 93 pictures, I won't be able to upload everything here, so do visit the link above. Leave your comments too, if you wish to.

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Here are just a few images from the event. All pictures taken with Nikon D80 (with pop-up flash) at ISO1600.

-The main entrance to Awanapuri Condominiums

The fire starters

BBQ in progress

Nice fire

With Babyboss photographer, Brian Lee

With Iris Liew

With Thomas, Chong and Isaac (in black)

With Christine and Jacinthia (longer hair wan)

With my over-burnt chicken wing!

With my birthday cake!

My Birthday SIGG Bottle

2009-07-29T16:30:00.009+08:00

This year's birthday was somewhat different from the ones I had over the last many years. As far as presents are concerned, I only got one. But the best and most happening part was receiving loads of birthday wishes at Facebook. I think I got almost a hundred birthday messages. To me, thats a lot. Never have I ever gotten so many well wishes before.

I only got three birthday text messages on my handphone. And that shows the power of cyberspace and the popularity of Facebook over SMS. I guess its simply because writing a message on Facebook is free while text messages cost some ten-fifteen sen. Yes, I also understand that the birthday reminder at Facebook also helped reminded many about the date, thus the hundred messages. Nevertheless, I am still happy about it.

Well, my one and only present this year is my much needed SIGG water bottle. I wrote a blog post about this Swiss-made water bottle and its superior features. I got a blue one.

This is 1.0L SIGG Dark Blue Traveller #7533.30

The old and the new. My old bottle is from F.O.S. The paint on the mouth of the bottle is peeling off and is likely no longer safe to use (I don't want to be swallowing paint!!!).

Even the box for the SIGG bottle is luxuriously handsome.

So yeah, I have already put my new SIGG bottle into action. Somehow, don't know why, the water from the SIGG bottle seem to taste better! Hmmm...

Acts Of Betrayal

2009-07-20T18:27:00.004+08:00

The world is sometimes so wicked, so filled with wicked hearted, unappreciative and cunning people. And I am not even taking about those unproductive, lazy and incompetent ones. It has become a known fact but having to experience it myself is another totally different experience.

Many years ago, a friend approached me and asked me for financial help. And for some reason, all these wickedness and cunningness are always related to money. Anyway, this friend needed RM10,000 for his mother's emergency medical cost and even gave me a post-dated check for the repayment of the loan. When the day came to bank in the check, it bounced. Called him up but he won't pick up the call. After a while, even the number got disconnected.

About three years ago, I referred a lady friend to open a banking account with a European bank. She was a divorcee and I wanted to help her make some money from the much higher interest rate from this bank. And so she did and had been enjoying good interest rates for over a year, collecting her monthly interest payouts happily. Sometime middle of last year, she wanted to take out all her money, in the climax of global recession. All banks, especially European banks tighten up all money transactions.

To cut the long story short, she is now blaming me for the delay of releasing her money. She is even threatening to sue me in court if I don't get her money out. And even to the extreme of asking loan sharks to come collect the money from me. What has it got to do with me? I was only the referrer. I don't have the money! She even scolds me with harsh vulgar words and accusing me of "cheating" her money. But she never thanked me even once for giving her the high interest payouts over the last one year plus! When things go sour, all she can think of is accusing and blaming me for everything. This was supposed to be a friend. Thanks but no thanks!

Another friend, from one event management company whom I have worked closely with, asked me for a favor. He wanted me to take photographs and video of some big shot police officer's daughter's wedding. In the name of "favor", I did it for him and even gave him a good price. The even was in April this year. Until now, I have not received my payment. He is no longer taking up my calls and neither is he replying to my text messages. He is totally ignoring me.

He bumped into me a few days ago at a coffee shop, he was with some friends. He did not even dare to look at me and chose to sit with his back facing me.

Another case. I did an event for this public listed company and I was dealing with their national sales director. A day prior to the event, he asked me to supply to him projector screens, switchers and cables. He said to issue a separate invoice and not to add on to the original event invoice. And so I did. The event was last year February. To cut the long story short, I have yet to receive my payment until today. Again, he is denying my calls, text messages and emails.

I can go on and on with a few more other incidents. It is so sick when these "friends" who asked me for help and favors, turn their backs on me when things got sour. My monetary loss is the small issue, it is the betrayal act that hurts me the most. Sometimes I wonder if I have been too kind to people. Someone once told me that I need to learn to say "no" even when I feel like saying "yes".

And that has brought to me many conflicting experiences, especially when I serve in the church. The Bible says to love your enemies, to forgive and to be a blessing. With God's grace, I truly need to learn and master the art of DIVINE WISDOM.

Sigh, jadi orang bukan senang! God...help us all.

The Haze

2009-07-15T19:13:00.007+08:00

The haze situation in Cheras, as of this morning and afternoon, was reasonably pleasant with only a slight hint of its presence. But when 6pm came, things changed for the worst. The haze was thick and brought visibility down to like 3 km! The surrounding condominiums and buildings opposite my own condo unit were showered with thick haze. And the further buildings seem to have "disappeared"!!!

This picture was taken from the left side of my condo unit, 17 floors up, at 7pm. A normally easily visible KLCC and the KL Tower have gone "missing" in the thick haze. The furthest building I can visibily see is around 3 km away.

At a glance, the ambience does resemble a typical evening at Genting Highlands where instead of 37C worth of dusty haze, is 16C worth of cool fog and midst. Unfortunately, this ain't the case!

Opposite view from my unit is Leisure Mall, which is now almost hidden in thick haze! I think its the worst of haze condition so far.

SIGG Water Bottles

2009-07-14T23:41:00.019+08:00

SIGG, "The Original Swiss Bottle", is recognized world-wide for Swiss quality and craftsmanship that comes with nearly 100 years of heritage and experience. Produced from a single component that is seamless and has no comparable weak points, SIGG bottles are tremendously durable and virtually unbreakable.

In June 2006, Backpacker magazine conducted a relentless field test of leading water bottles brands. With the services of a 100 pound cannon packed with golf balls, they were able to destroy all of the targeted bottles – except one! Following the bottle barrage, they dubbed SIGG "The World's Toughest Water Bottle."

As tough as they are on the outside, it's the inside of SIGG bottles that make them so special. Due to SIGG's special, proprietary internal coating, these high-tech bottles are resistant to fruit juice acids, energy drinks, alcohol and virtually any consumable beverage. Because the liners are taste and scent neutral, you can enjoy any beverage you'd like – without any lingering smell or taste of the last beverage you drank.

The composition of the liner also reduces the chances of bacteria build-up. And because the liner is virtually baked into the inner walls of the bottle, it will not flake or chip even if dented on the outside.

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There has been a lot of press concerning plastic water bottles (polycarbonate) leaching harmful chemicals into the container's ingredients. It's extremely important to note that SIGG bottles exceed FDA requirements and have been thoroughly tested to ensure 0.0% leaching – so they are 100% safe.

In Malaysia, the SIGG water bottle (1.oL) is retailing at RM129 each.

July 28 is just around the corner and guess what's #1 on my birthday wish list?

A SIGG WATER BOTTLE. :)

TV3 - Inspirasi Konsert

2009-07-12T17:14:00.005+08:00

Again, for some funny reasons, I can't seem to move the pictures around. So, the sequence is, again, in reverse order.

This was the TV3 concert I covered while of my other fellow friends were shooting the Japan Super GT 2009 at Sepang. Given a choice, I'd take Japan GT anytime! Anyway, this was TV3's 25 years anniversary concert themed "Inspirasi". As usual, like their monthly Jom Heboh concerts, it was attended by Malays with maybe 1 or 2 foreign visitors who'd probably get a shock seeing how the crowd behaved. And I am not making this up and neither am I being biased because I actually interviewed one of the visitor.

The concert, being a Malay concert, had all Malay local artistes lined up for the evening. Some names I know, some I don't know and some I don't even bother to know.

Here are some pics that should tell the whole story.

Fireworks at the end of the show. I think the budget was the main reason for the rather "thin display".

The finale, all the artistes came out for a final good night.

Hmm, this is Awie!

Faizal Tahir

Malaysian veteran singer, M.Nasir.

The Malaysian "divas". From left is Adibah Noor (in white), Ning Baizura, Noryn Aziz and Jacklyn Victor (of Malaysian Idol fame).

The crowd and the stage.

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I have shot TV3 concerts for some years now and I always, and mean ALWAYS, see fights. Somehow, the people just can't stay polite and keep peace while enjoying the concert. Somehow, they just have to irritate each other and start a fight. You kacau me, I kacau you! Not just once but a few times in ONE show!

This is what I mean "gangsterism" among the youths! The police, and I mean POLICE and not the RELAs, had to come and literally "arrest" the boys!

I have also covered many Hong Kong, Taiwan and international artistes' concerts here in Malaysia and we don't see such rowdy behaviours. Yes, there were "naughty" boys too but not to an extreme of a "police arrest"! In fact, only the RELAs were on duty. Somehow, the TV3 concerts require the presence of the police force. That tells us something, doesn't it?

Not sure who they are. In fact, I don't know 60% of the artiste line-up.

Veteran singer, Jamal Abdilah. Married and divorced 3 times. And I thought this only happens in the Western celebrity culture. Malaysia Boleh!

Before the show started, balloons were distributed. And everyone, including the adults, rushed for them. The father would take 3 balloons, 2 for his kid and one for himself. I mean, haven't they seen balloons before? Why would city folks go to the extend of "fighting" for balloons? Gosh!

Our "spiderman" up there, 40 feet above ground, fixing the molefay lights.

Huge amount of power was consumed that evening. The source...industrial generator sets.

The clowns

The crowd

The inflatables

Street artistes at work on their graffiti

The "Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad" also known as the "clock tower" in front of Dataran Merdeka. A view that I have not shot for more than 10 years. I remembered when I started photography as a hobby some 18 years ago, I always drive down town shooting these old buildings.

EAW KF750 speakers used to give rear coverage for the people at the far back area. Personally, I think these aged KF750 performs far better than the newer ESS line arrays used as front of house at this concert.

TV3's sound engineer at the Yamaha PM5D digital mixer for FOH mix

The entire stage at 6pm

The ESS (East Sound System) line array Front-Of-House system. They sounded ok but I think it was a little "hard". Maybe the sound engineer preferred "harder" sound.

The music director's keyboards station. Not sure who she was but it was a lady. No, it was not Jenny Chin.

The drummer. Forgot his name!

The Yamaha M7CL digital mixer for stage monitors mix

The ESS power amps for the line array FOHs

Well, that's about it. That was my evening at TV3's Inspirasi Konsert Ulang Tahun Ke-25. I still think shooting the Japan GT would be more fun!

Sigh.

Moments at Michael Jackson's Memorial

2009-07-09T03:19:00.011+08:00

I watched the live telecast over Astro's CNN coverage of Michael Jackson's memorial service at the Staples Centre. At first, I didn't get good signals from Astro due to the rain, so I watched it over CNN's website on streaming video. But later, reverted back to Astro when the rain stopped.

It was a super slow 2 hour plus event. And the replay the next day got everything told in less than 60 minutes! Should have watched the replay instead. But then again, nothing beats the suspense and thrill of watching a live telecast and knowing that its happening there over in US, exactly as you see it on TV. That is also why I only watch football matches if its "live" and if its "the finals".

Anyway, a few things brought me to tears while watching MJ's memorial last nite. The pushing in of his coffin by his brothers was somehow heart moving. I mean, its Michael Jackson's body lying inside there, alright!

But I was especially touched when his 11 year old daughter, Paris Jackson, gave the short but super touchy speech and when she said her daddy was the best daddy in the world, it brought me tears. This were her exact words, "Ever since I was born, daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine. And I just want to say that I love him so much", and she burst into tears.

I mean, the world has never heard from this girl and when she speaks, she moved the world to tears! How powerful. Watch the video HERE.

When Brooke Shileds gave her testimony, she concluded with the lyrics of "Smile" and she teared. Then Michael's brother, Jermaine, sang the song in full.

Awesome lyrics, super meaningful. He almost couldn't finish the song. Again, brought me to tears.

But I think, the best part, at least in my opinion, was when the pastor (I think it was Pastor Lucius Smith) closed the event with a prayer and mentioned this, "the King of Pop will now have to bow his knees to the King of Kings". And that's God, our Heavenly Father! Rest in peace, Michael.

I woke up at 12 noon this "morning" and I am still awake now (its 4:30am). I think I better hit the sack now and hopefully get back to my "normal" sleeping routine!

Good night, Malaysia!

A Satisfied Event

2009-07-06T01:34:00.009+08:00

I actually wrote quite a lot about this event but somehow for don't know what reasons the entire text just disappeared! Anyway, it was a good evening. Everything went well. Most of all, the client was happy and have their thumbs up! It was an awards nite for their Presidential Directors of an MLM company.

The pictures are in reverse order and I can't seem to rearrange the order of the pictures! Don't know wuts wrong with Blogspot. Anyway, here they are. All images taken with Canon IXUS70.

The distributors buying products like there is no tomorrow. I think easily some few hundred thousand Ringgit worth of sale was made that nite.

The crowded hall at MAEPS.

My DJ console overviewing the stage.

DJ of the evening! Haha...

The LCD projector monitors and video selector.

The hall with 181 tables!

Hall D of MAEPS (Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang).

My two projector screens at the back foyer area.

My "Wall-E" looking LCD projector!

Speaker amplifiers from SoundStandard.

MLA line arrays.

My workstation for the evening...the DJ console!

Allen & Heath GL3300 overlooking the stage area.

Tribute To Michael Jackson (1958-2009)

2009-06-26T12:41:00.012+08:00

Today is a special day. Farrah Fawcett (Charlie's Angels in the late 70s) died. My fighting fish, Sally, also died early this morning. And about 10 hours ago, marked the death of The King Of Pop, Michael Jackson. He was 50.

The hospital pronounced him dead at 2:26pm on Thursday, June 25 (US time). Apparently, he suffered a cardiac arrest at his home and was immediately rushed to the hospital. He was not breathing when he arrived. The doctors failed to revive him despite trying for almost an hour.

Rest in peace, Michael.

Japan Super GT 2009

2009-06-20T14:31:00.010+08:00

It is sad to acknowledge that I won't be shooting this year's Japan Super GT 2009 in Sepang. I have been shooting JGT for the last 3 years and to watch others having the fun this year would be a real drag. I feel disappointed when I see my friends' Facebook pages flooding with images from Sepang, the setups, the practise runs, the crew, the photographers in actions, etc.

I was almost devastated when I was informed a few months ago that our Japan GT client, Hankook, is not hosting any events this year during the race in Malaysia. Normally, Hankook will bring in their Hankook (tyres) distributors from Asia to Malaysia in conjunction with the JGT here in Sepang. For the delegates, there will be tours, seminars, dinners and of course, the race day itself. I enjoyed the "Safari Tour" where the bus makes two rounds at the Sepang race track with the super cars rushing in and taking over from the back. Its really adrenalin-rush! But Hankook cut its budget this year, I heard and thus, no hosting of events. But I think the Porsche Hankook team is still in the race this season.

Nevertheless, I will still be shooting. But shooting a dull and boring local TV3 live concert at Dataran Merdeka! Boring local artistes compared to hot Japanese babes. A boring stage setup compared to shinny super cars! Boring local music compared to the loud roars of the super engines! Sigh.

Action started on Thursday with all the teams coming in, setting up and getting ready at their pits. Yesterday was the practises. Today is qualifying. And today is the day ALL the hot Japanese babes aka umbrella girls come out in droves, parading in their skimpy team outfits, attracting immense attention from hordes of photographers rushing for a good shot like they've never seen a gorgeous babe before. And I must say that this is, like it or not, where most of the fun is. The cars are secondary! haha..

Photo forums are beginning to be flooded with pictures of the girls and cars. Tomorrow, we will see the actual race and the pinnacle of all action...both the cars and the babes! The focus will be more on the cars tomorrow since its the actual race day.

Here are some of my friends in action at the Japan Super GT 2009 in Sepang.

[The pictures have been taken down because the photographer(s) who supposedly took the pics say that I am not allowed to use his/their images unless I have his/their permission. I didn't see the matter as so serious since these are just general pictures of people at Sepang and some are even my friends. These images are not some "high profile copyrighted" images of some superstar or anything like that. But since the "apparent owner(s)" of the images are making noise, I will take them down to make everyone happy. I apologise for making the rightful photographer(s) uneasy over the matter. Happy shooting, boys!]

OK, gotto run off to my boring concert shoot now. Have a great weekend. :)

Babyboss Junior Photographers

2009-06-19T00:33:00.013+08:00

I received a call this afternoon from CMG boss, asking me to cover this Saturday's TV3 25th Anniversary Concert at Dataran Merdeka. The show will be a live telecast over national television. Must be a big do!

So, as usual, I contacted my junior photographers to see who can come along and practise shooting live concerts. The engagement only pays for one photographer, thus the junior photographers that come won't get paid. Instead, they get a chance to shoot a live concert and build up their portfolio.

A good portfolio is important for someone who plans to come out in the near future as a fulltime professional photographer. A good portfolio will elevate his / her market value and allowing him / her to command a better fee.

But somehow, all my juniors were not available. Sandra Wong will be in Malacca this Saturday. Brian Lee is also in Malacca this Saturday. Angie Ong is now in New Zealand. Ee Yin has a movie date this Saturday. I think Christine Wong will also be in Malacca for something. Thank God Mabel Kuan said yes when I contacted her!

Actually, I don't really need someone to "follow" me during a shoot. I don't actually need an assistant or anything like that. But it would be nice to have a company and someone to chat with during shoot. And of course, he / she gets to "practise" in real action!

I still remember a few years ago, when all my current senior photographers were still juniors and following me around shooting concerts and stuffs. But now, they have all moved up and are now fulltime professional photographers making a living taking pictures.

L-R : Sandra, Caxton, Paul, TVXQ poster, me and William.

Sandra is still our junior photographer. Caxton and Paul are now senior photographers. William has always been independant. Shooting in a team is always more fun and less pressure as the work load is spread out to the few of us instead of just one photographer. The risk of camera failure is also not too much of a concern as there are other cameras to cover.

The other benefit if bringing along a junior is this...you get to have your own pictures taken professionally. Many times in concerts, we get to mingle around with the artistes. And if you ask a non-photographer to help you take your picture with the artiste, you are likely to get very disappointed with the shot! Its either not in focus or camera shake or something!

This picture of me and Rain was taken by a non-photographer who does not even know how to hold a DSLR. The image is not sharp! But I had no choice as I was the only photographer allowed inside Rain's room.

The setting up at the studio before shooting the Babyboss Pictures "family portrait".

Back Row (L-R) : Paul Kok, Sandra Wong, Dr Yung, William Lim

Front Row (L-R) : Christine Wong, me, Caxton Chow

This group picture was taken a few year ago, so its a lil outdated. A few new juniors are not in the picture. I think maybe its time to have a new Babyboss Pictures photo session!

Church Camp 2009

2009-06-14T16:02:00.011+08:00

It has been almost 3 weeks since I last blogged something here. The last 2 weeks, I have been either very busy or just plain lazy. Last weekend, I was at my church' annual camp. The few days before it, I was busy preparing for the camp. And the few days after it, I was busy with some business deals.

Other than that, I was just too lazy to write anything. All I did with most of the remaining time was just day dreaming, thinking about how things would have been if I had taken the left turn instead of the right. Or how my life would be if certain things have worked out. I don't exactly regret over things that have happened but sometimes I do wonder how it feels to be on the other side of the hill.

My new church is now almost 1 year old and we hosted our first church camp this year at Fraser's Hill. At the mention of the name, one would instantly relate the place to cool weather and fresh air. Well, there isn't much to see in Fraser's Hill, its actually quite a boring place. Weather was not exactly that cooling but at least I get to escape from the immense KL heat for a few days! Approximately 60 members participated in the camp, with only about 10 from the English congregation.

We stopped by at Ulu Yam for lunch and when we got off our cars, we were instantly greeted by the familiar heat we have in KL. The wind blowing onto my skin was literally hot air. But thankfully, the food was good.

The "loh meen" was superbly tasty and was totally gone within minutes. Murphy took the last drop of the gravy!

Fried chicken wings were great too and definitely deserve a mention here. Also gone within minutes.

The worship team. All musical instruments and sound system were brought up from KL. Very dedicated sound crew. This is the first time in a church event where I didn't have to touch any equipment. All I did was just preach the Word and relax.

I remember how I used to be so busy last time with transporting the equipment and stuffs and setting up at the hotel, sound checks and practises. But now, we have someone else doing all that work. :)

That's what I did, preached the Word of God. I spoke at the 1st session of the camp, on the topic of "United For God's Purposes".

But the majority of the campers were from the Mandarin congregation and I spoke in English. So, I had my senior pastor Rev Dr Jason Loh to do the translation for me. Because of his enthusiasm and experience, there were times where he spoke ahead of me and more detailed than me!

But nevertheless, we brought the message through. I shared from Ephesians 4 : 1 - 13, Unity In The Body Of Christ. I was speaking on how each member of the church plays a different role and coming together as one in the Body of Christ. How some of us will do more glorious work while some will do "not so glorious work" in the ministry. How some will command loud applause while some may not even be noticed.

At the end of my sermon, I made an altar call for those who want to "come back" right with God and rededicate their lives to Jesus. I wasn't sure if God wanted me to lay hands and pray, so I waited. And then, after a while, God said, "Now, go lay hands on them and pray for them".

And so I did. By that time, I could see that some of them were already in tears. God was already soaking in them. I have not been praying for people at altar calls for some time now. The last one I did was at Influence Conference 2007. I was on "sabbatical leave" the whole of 2008! But it was a great feeling again to experience God's mighty hands at work through me. Its good to be at service again.

It is always important to wait upon the Lord for the "right timing". By the time I laid hands on the people, they were ready to "rest in God's presence" and slain under the power of the Holy Spirit. It was a tremendous time, even for myself. As God worked into their lives, I myself was touched.

Our faithful Kurzweil SP88...Daesi's baby!

Leisure time at the nearby Jeriau Waterfall, some 5km away. Babyboss junior photographer, Mabel Kuan was the official photographer of the camp. She supplied all these pictures you see here.

The group picture. Everyone from En Dian (Chinese) and Revival One (English)...well, almost everyone. Some were stuck in the toilet due to food poisoning!

Just a note, never come to Shazan Inn!!! The rooms are lousy! No aircond but I can understand lar...Fraser's Hill cold mar. But fan pun takde!!! At least Genting's First World Hotel budget budget also got fan! The only thing I was thankful for was the free wifi at the hotel's lobby.