You Only Live Once

Many years ago, I happen to see an exhibit "Keep the dream alive" in the Art House Print Gallery, 3-16 November 2009.

One of the artwork by Jason jonathan Chandra says:
This girl have many dreams (ballons). Sadyly, due to some circumstances and obstacles, her dreams fly away one by one. Keep your dreams alive. Don't let it fly away...

I agree... my dreams are flying past me....

There is another artwork that I find.. queer... and yet... unique..

Carisia Chew Zixin says:
She wonders all the time why she was born a girl rather than a boy. Everything would feel more right. What if...

And you noticed that the lines were not lines... they were tiny wordings saying "I wanna be a boy".

At that time I did not thought too much of this artwork. But now that I am re-visiting it, I wondered, if she feels that way too?

Lim Nyuk Shan's inspiration was from a sponsored child in Philippines who may be stricken with poverty and confined in small quarters but embrace the chance at education and have big dreams. Like all of us do.

This was actually done by an 11 year old Goh Sher Hwyn Rebecca who hopes that the economy will recover and that competitions like these will be well-supported. Interesting thought I would say. And very sweet for a 11 year old child to think for the event organisers.

My dream is to be a cowboy living in the carefree lifestyle, says Shankar Agasthya who is only 7 years old.

Overall I did find the exhibition thought provoking especially since it was of coincidence that I got to see this exhibition. My original intention was to see the teddy bear exhibition which I did not take any photos and thus no longer have any memories of it haha. 

I also caught sight of a Dawn Kwan Art exhibition where she had her winter holiday in Switzerland. Her artwork Ski-man on Chocolate is a 2 metre art piece. I find it interesting to ski on a bucket of chocolate. Ski and Hot chocolate, the 2 major theme of Switzerland :) 

Oh here's the artwork explanation:


Ski-man On Chocolate was birthed from the artist's exuberant winter experience in Switzerland in December 2008. This 2-metre metaphoric translation took shape as a result of Dawn Kwan's first ski experience on the Matterhorn, one of the world's most famous mountains which rises 4478 metres high. Dawn is at once refreshed by icy snow slopes while skiing and comforted by her favourite hot chocolate drink after ski. Cold and hot. This fascinating theme from this 12-year old artist's imagination, like a flowing swirl, is frozen in stainless steel.

I think it must be after I see this artwork that I tell myself I must try to ski one day too? And then probably 2 years later, I did tried skiing in Melbourne, Lake Mountain. And I then told myself probably the last time to try skiing haha. But having said that, lately, I'm thinking of going back for my last winter experience in Melbourne still. I think the fact that my stint here may end soon is making me whimsical. Haha.


Anyway it's been a long time since I last visited The Arts House.

It was originally a Parliament House and gazetted as a monument on 3rd July 1992.

Designed by G D Coleman and built in 1826-1827, it was used as the Court House before the Legislative Assembly occupied it in 1954. It became the Parliament House in 1965.

In front of the building is this unique rice grain which I felt has a very strong Asian feel.

The Golden Grain: Exposed
Bronze with Patina
2008

Kumari Nahappan
Born 1953, Malaysia, Lives and works in Singapore

Kumari perpetuates the notion of preservation and promote of Nature's gifts in her sculptures of the chilli, capsicum and saga seed. The choice of these is based on their intrinsic qualities such as color (red) which symbolizes "unleashed energy and propensity for growth". She emphasizes their importance as sustenance essential to Man and amplifies their diminutive forms to gigantic proportions in her works. The Golden Grain: Exposed! follows this approach by representing a massive 3m tall grain pod. It features a physical narrative that registers a snapshot of a process - the budding of the grain. This monumental sculpture serves as a tribute to the grain, a symbol of Asia's culture and also celebrates the rejuvenation of new energy and aspirations.

What is the Singapore Embassy Number in Australia?

This is a question that suddenly popped into my mind after the Japan's earthquake.

It was dinner time on Friday and I had just reached Burnie after a 2 hours bus ride. My friend's friends had picked us up for a lovely dinner. When I went to the ladies after the meal, I saw the news of Tokyo's earthquake and immediately got worried for Senpai.

HP was on Whatsapp then and I asked her if Tokyo is having earthquake which she replied yupz. Afterthat, I guess I did not continue my chat with her as I concentrated on trying to get connected in FB (I was in rural Tasmania with limited connection). It was my only way to contact Senpai. Seriously I have to thank FB.. it was through FB that I checked my NZ fren was safe just a month ago.. and it was through FB that I managed to see Senpai posting status updates and photos.

Over the next few days, I have to admit I was in holiday and thus I still have to do my sight-seeings. But I checked occassionally to see my Senpai status. I remembered receiving an office email about a colleague then and thus I checked up on him too even though he isn't a FB contact (haha I did not think of adding him.. though he is nice.. just never felt the urge to do so). Then mum sent me a sms and told me my friend is in Tokyo shopping and Auntie was so worried for that span of time where she was uncontactable.

Hmm, I suddenly remembered how in 2007 Tokyo had a minor earthquake at the time I was in Nikko (and thus avoided it) and that my boss then even emailed me and checked on me. At that time, my classmate also did check on me and reminded me to call my mum (I had earlier on sent Mum an email actually). In some sense, I never realised how serious an earthquake could be bah. And actually I think my mum didn't know about the earthquake either then. I mean she didn't even know about some natural disaster in Osaka the day that I flew (I can't remember it now either haha.. but I remember telling her after I checked in haha)

But there is something different about the earthquake this time. Something which I did not really understand (I was deprived of my morning news that weekend) till I was back in Melbourne and HP told me the seriousness. Furushima was suffering from a nuclear crisis. Then it all made sense on why Senpai was trying to catch a flight back. And in his status updates, why he had mentioned that he will contact the SG embassy soon.

And I realised... I did not know the SG embassy number here either. It had never occurred to me to know it I guess. Later I was telling xL about it and she asked me if I really am in such a crisis, what will I do. I said check FB still because I'm still lazy to search for the number. Besides it is indeed the best way to broadcast to everybody I'm safe. I had read an article of a Canadian first hand encounter and who has posted his touching email to a very long list of friends about his current situation.. but seriously, I think I will first FB. Then I will take my time to write the long email (and say my last words just in case). Then call the embassy.

And yes, I finally did google search the SG embasy in Australia...

Singapore High Comission , Australia

17 Forster Crescent
2600
Yarralumla
Canberra
Australia
Phone:
+61-2-6273-3944
Fax:
+61-2-6273-9823
+61-2-6273-8165
Website URL:
www.mfa.gov.sg/canberra

Canoeing in Little India

Source: 泛舟小印度 by 佚名, 联合早报网 (Lianhe Zaobao) on 2010-8-12 13:24:01

Image source: 联合早报网 (Lianhe Zaobao
Photographer: 洪荣兴

Actual Article as extracted:
昨天下午一场大雨，把小印度一带变成水乡，29岁的洪荣兴一时兴起，在后巷划起独木舟。

洪荣兴和朋友在罗威路（Rowell Road）经营旅行社，专门组织野外旅游、钓鱼和泛舟等活动，所以店里总摆着一些独木舟。

他接受本报访问时说，这一个多月来的几场大雨，这一带都出现积水，特别是7月17日那次，水渗入店里，还把一台电冰箱浸坏。

“当时我和朋友说，下次淹水，我们干脆到后巷划舟。”

昨天下午2时30分左右，一场豪雨又把罗威路和兴都路之间的后巷变水乡，水位大约30公分，生性豁达的洪荣兴想起上次和朋友的对话，于是赶紧从店里搬出独木舟，穿上救生衣，在后巷泛舟拍照。

这有趣的一幕吸引了经过大路的车辆和路过的行人，一些驾车者还鸣车笛向他挥手致意。他特地把独木舟划到路口和路人打招呼。

水来得快，去得也快，大约20分钟后，水就退了。豁达的洪荣兴说：“既然都积水了，换得一点乐趣也挺不错的。”

A short and curt translation of the article:

Due to the heavy downpour yesterday, Little India turned into a pretty lake and 29 year old Mr. Hong decided it is a good day to canoe at Hougang.

Mr. Hong and his friends own a travel agency in Rowell Road which specializes in outdoor trips, fishing trips as well as canoeing trips. Thus it is no surprise that he owns a few canoes in his shop. For the past few months, he has experienced a few flash floods and in 17th July 2010, one of his fridge was damaged due to the flash flood. At that time, he told his friends, he will canoe at the next flash flood occurrence.

So when the heavy rain again caused flooding yesterday at 2.30pm, on an impulse and to honour his promise, he immediately rushed to retrieve his canoe and a life jacket and canoe to his pleasure.

This short canoe stint which lasted about 20 minutes caught the approval of a few drivers and passer-bys who gave him a thumbs up sign. As in Mr. Hong words, since the flooding has occurred, he was just taking an opportunity to lighten things and gain some memorable experiences.

Bflygal's comments:
I like this guy's impulse. Sometimes life gets too boring and since you have made a promise, why not fulfill it as chance has given you the opportunity. In fact I still remember what I discuss with my friends 2 weeks ago (when it rained heavily just as I was heading to Batam), that since Wendy keeps getting flooded, maybe they should consider a water theme for Wendy. Let the staff be in full scuba wetsuits (sorry I was not thinking of bikinis because it might get too cold) and maybe have floats around to be tables perhaps.

And if you want to read more about the flash flood, you may drop by Temasek Review here. It may be a bit sensationalized but I cannot deny it has its usefulness. I'm still trying to check its authenticity on the YOG volunteer's food.

(15th Aug 2010) It's been verified by Straits Times  that was indeed the food served to some YOG volunteers. I wouldn't say it is very terrible if we really want to compare with countries where food is scarce. I would say it is unfair though if we are seeing the food fare served to other volunteers and most importantly to the foreign athletes. I would say the source of dissatisfaction is the differential treatment certain people is subjected to. And I would say the source of my contempt lies in the fact that this is a 5.5 million SGD (taxpayer's money) worth catering contract we are talking about. I hate the feeling of being exploited.

Happy Birthday Singapore

I managed to rush home in time to catch Corrine May singing the NDP 2010 song. (I admit I missed out the front part on those army and marching and MPs coming in but well better late than never right?)

And I started thinking, why did I never take it seriously to understand my National Anthem. So I decided today, I will find out what exactly is the meaning of my National Anthem.

Mari kita rakyat Singapura
Sama-sama menuju bahagia
Cita-cita kita yang mulia
Berjaya Singapura

Marilah kita bersatu
Dengan semangat yang baru
Semua kita berseru
Majulah Singapura
Majulah Singapura

Marilah kita bersatu
Dengan semangat yang baru
Semua kita berseru
Majulah Singapura
Majulah Singapura


Come, fellow Singaporeans
Let us progress towards happiness together
May our noble aspiration bring
Singapore success

Come, let us unite
In a new spirit
Let our voices soar as one
Onward Singapore
Onward Singapore

Come, let us unite
In a new spirit
Let our voices soar as one
Onward Singapore
Onward Singapore

Pulau Semakau

I had wanted to help out with ProjectSemakau in 2010 and attended their training. Unfortunately a job acceptance took me away from all these activities. I sincerely hope I may be able to help them some time in the future perhaps.

Anyway I did a classroom lesson with them and 2 survey trainings.

The first one was a Biodiversity survey training at Pulau Semakau on 31 July (Sat) 5am-12pm

Thus I took a cab in the wee hours to reach Marina South Pier. Being my first assignment cum on the job training, I am totally clueless. This is a hunting trip where we are each allocated a portion to analyse the living specimens and its population in that area. And because of the superb hunting skill of my partner, I saw plentiful actually.

E.g. corals

crabs

sea star

nudibranch

Oh my partner of the day clicks with me as we do share similar interests. She dived a lot, run marathon (she was wearing the bay run tee thus that's how the conversation started) and was a contestant for ultra-marathoner too though she did not participate as she felt she did not train much. In fact she has a friend who is also doing the race in Sahara Desert, fund raising for the Singapore. This lady friend is much more impressive who has participate lots of events and won some.
The second one was a Monitoring survey training at Pulau Semakau on 14 Aug (Sat) 5.30am-12.30pm

This is more tedious as you were walking and investigating the state of health of the seagrass and living specimens in your area based on the marker planted in the shore.

At first all we saw was just sea grass.

Then someone who had finished came over to see our progress and spotted the crab.. woot.. something different to report finally.

Then is back to more grasses 

On the way back, we caught sight of a horseshoe crab...

Other group's unidentified specimen.

I know it is cruel to bring the specimen back. Is really an issue of do we want to conduct further study and understand better at the expense of the caught specimen's life? Sigh too complicated. I can only say in the name of science!

NLB Vertical Marathon

I had wondered how tall can the library be. And it did not 'disappoint' me. It was just 16 storeys.

The view wasn't fantastic either. Plus it was enclosed (i.e. Glass walls) so photography was pretty limited. Sigh as I was preparing to take photos like how I did for my Swiss vertical marathon. Talking about that, saw a few Swiss vertical past marathoners. They changed the shirt to red colour. I prefer my white shirt haha.

However for a free event, I must say I'm impressed that a medal is found in the goodies bag. Oh and I like the toilet in that level, has a pretty good view... that is why cannot resist taking photos of the toilet..

Oh I met my NUS cum ex-colleague and a girl in the event. I did wonder who she was as I know his gf is in Malaysia.. And he kind of guess I was wondering so when we met again at the top, he properly introduced the lady to be his sister. Luckily his sister does not look like him at all. Haha.

Voglia

Voglia, Italian for Desires. My favourite word of the day.
So what do you truly desire?

This is something I have been wondering. What do human truly desire? Because sometimes what we desire might not be right for us. And sometimes we dare not achieve what we desire. Frankly, I dare not hope to achieve what I desire. And I'm not sure what I truly desire.

Ms Sumiko Tan getting married is a happy event. But it has also became a thought-provoking event for me. While everybody (or those who are her fans) are happy that another real-life fairy tale had taken place (seriously the plot does has elements of fairy tale in it as it transcends time, and hopefully it has a fairy tale ending of "happily ever after" too), I started wondering that this has came to no surprise on me. Years, she had written countless articles which periodically will dwell on singlehood. She may be Singapore's most famous single bachelorette, but deep down, she had shown signs that she just wish to be the typical happily married lady. And why not, if that is what she truly desire.

Which brings me to my next point, why do people have long courtship and not get married? 'US' is a big word I must say, and probably by conventions, after courtship comes marriage is a natural progression. And thus if one cannot progress to marriage, he/she must then decide the ultimate - the Break Up. But to hover in the courtship for an infinite time, is it deluding oneself? Or is that also something one truly desire? I always thought that your heart knows if the person is right for you and you don't really need to ponder too long. And truth is, Ms Sumiko did not ponder too long, proving my point that if this is the right one, and if you are serious in making the commitment, then marriage should be on the cards. So why is marriage not on the cards for some of the other couples?

Maybe I was too rational? Which is a sin to be when you are in a relationship. They say being too rational, you do not love that person more, or maybe you don't even love him at all. There were times I would argue back on this point, but what is the use when it has been proven that being rational will indeed made one wakes up from the fairy tale and gives reality a serious thought. Rationality does not equate to feelings. But irrationality does indeed make you more reckless and show what your heart truly desires. So I don't argue with people who blame it on irrationality for liking a person more. But I feel, whether you are rational or irrational, the amount of feelings you have for someone has already been decided... since the day the red string has been attached to the two of you. And that is what your heart truly desire to risk.

So back to the big question, what do you truly desire?

忍不住 想要愛你的衝動
不確定你屬於我 會有點寂寞
你給的幸福 在我心中自由走動
撫平我每一個傷口
忍不住 想要吻你的衝動
不確定我的執著 能讓你感動
我只能相信自己感受 不怕失落
關於你的一切 我想要比誰都懂

你是情人 還是朋友
還沒勇氣 想得太多
你的世界 如此遼闊
我會在哪個角落
- extracted from 蕭亞軒 - 衝動
p/s: don't know why, I just felt it was quite apt for someone whom had just "argued" with me about irrationality making her feel foolish. Actually in life, sometimes being reckless and stubborn is the key to find out the answer. Which is why I am currently in a reckless and stubborn mode (not forgetting being in a secretive mode too).
pp/s: this post was actually written on 12th Aug 2010.
ppp/s: got reminded of the vertical marathon once again. And once again, I'm sure I will not repeat it (oh ya I have not blogged on the NLB vertical marathon... will do so after a few more drawings).. I will once again re-iterate my favourite lines
逃到很远的地方前
先逃到很高的地方
And re-iterate that my heart desires lie in going somewhere faraway, as faraway as I can reach. An escapist at heart. That is what my heart truly desires. Anyway I repeated alot of vertical marathons this year, in Italy and in NLB.

水是福

It has been a rainy month this month and twice I experienced mini flood. The first time was the infamous Orchard River though it subsided by the time I reached there. The second time, it was at Aljunied. But while most of us only cringed and be on-lookers, I saw 2 men who was willing to get themselves wet to help the cabbie. And I thought about ARK which I still have not accomplished at all. (Many days later, I realised that one of my boss actually practised ARK almost everyday and my impression of him changed, but that is a story to be told another day.)

Anyway the actual drawn scenario should be this... but hmm I was drawing from memory so well of course it differs GREATLY.

It also got me thinking if water is fortune or misfortune? Or like they always say, too much of something is never a good thing. Whichever is the case, what I really pondered is, if I'm back to olden village days, how would I react?

Rainy Dumpling Day

I had woken up with an overcast sky and thought it was still in the early morning, except it was 8am already. It was supposedly an important day for me. Waited 2 months, had to be screened twice by my agent and her boss, before I was presented to their client. And I stopped all job search for this job, which is funny because when I first heard it, I wanted to reject it.

Except this is the only company that has a chance of bringing me back to Swiss.. my most beloved country... and I really wanted to go back Swiss.. no correction, I wanted to work there. It was my thoughts when I stepped in Interlaken Ost in 2004. That I wanted to work there, even if it is just for a short stint. I remember I was envious of a cousin then who had worked there briefly. Later on, I had another cousin in Nestle and went Swiss twice for a few months. And I wondered, when is my chance? I am still wondering by the way. *cross fingers*

So today is an important day for me. Just as it is an important day for Qu Yuan millions years ago. And so rain is expected because mum said it always rained during dumpling day. I silently hoped it will stopped though because I do not want to be drenched.

But the rain continued and showed no signs of stopping even in the afternoon. And so I carefully made my way to the MRT and as usual, checked FB, emails via my phone. That is then I realised everybody was posting something in FB - Orchard River... Flooding in Orchard. I thought was it yesterday news? And opened my chat to find my friend to ask her as she had smsed me yesterday to see if I was in Orchard.. and she said it wasn't raining yesterday at all. Another chat with a fellow FB who posted the youtube video confirmed the horror to me - that Orchard is flooding... today. And I'm not in boots. (Ok obviously I will never be in boots in SG anyway and I don't possess a pair hahaha.) Further google search tells me the flooding is at Scotts Road, where I am alighting. Geez, what great news. I have no choice but to cross my fingers and hope I will still be sufficiently presentable to meet the interviewer.

So I alighted at Orchard and came out of the station. And it does look pretty alright. Roads may be wet but vehicles were on the move. I thought the situation had return to normalcy. Then I passed by Lucky Plaza and saw all the basement stores partially closed with passer-bys stopping to see what they do.. and of course taking photos. I took only one photo though and is after the interview. Too depressing to take more. Shops with clothes, books, accessories are not spared. I guess their whole day was spent fishing their products, packing into bags and mopping the stores.

But my greatest sympathy goes to these car owners. At that time I did not know the extent of the water level in the carpark though from the interviewer office, I saw a crowd had gathered. And from a conversation with one of the employee, I found out that his car was swimming. Swimming, sounds too incredulous that I had to repeat "Really?" After the interview, I went to join the crowd and realised it has been half a day and they were still trying to drain the water. And dad told me all these vehicles probably had to be scrapped. (More rubbish created sigh.) And some of the cars probably were branded or new. What a pity!

Later I met a HK friend working there and she told me the flood was in the morning and it receeded in an hour's time. Oh and she shared with me some photos, one of them being this flooded bus-stop

Credits: Mandy

In the end, Orchard River became a bigger event than the world cup tonight (my interviewer was saying he will first check about Orchard River then World Cup) and more memorable than my interview experience... or dumpling experience... It even became my starting topic to the interviewer who did not know this is a rare sight. Well, neither Mandy nor me (being local) expected such a sight in Orchard either. As for the reasons for the occurrence, as usual, it is still under investigation. Oh and dad said I should carry my camera out daily haha. I admit my camera phone is CMI but at least the shot looks decent in thumbnail version.

STAMP

STAMP is a posting box painting project in Singapore.

And I quite like their idea on this project. And I'm all for voting this box.

I'm biased of course, and I do not know the artiste. I'm biased because I saw her paint, under the sweltering sun. I sensed her professionalism. And I was actually sorely tempted to take photo of her at that moment. Too bad I lack the courage.

So I'm doing the next best thing for her, I shall blog about her art work.

Post-box code ER07
Title ER07
Location Tampines Street 41 (Linkway Blk 406)
Team Name Nur-Izzah Ali
Team Members
Category Open
Description
Singapore is definitely proud to hold the 2010 Youth Olympic Games - and its joy shows among many of its citizens. It's always sunny in our little island so that gives a perfect opportunity to work those muscles and enjoy a fun ride on the bike! Cycling as a group is as gratifying as cycling solo. When one cycles in the city, our familiar sights of clean parks, high rise buildings and all the greenery are hard to escape. Among the background are iconic cityscape silently cheering on wherever one goes, whizzing by. Go team SG!

If you are interested to cast your vote too, drop by http://www.forecepts.com/stamp2/votes/public_votelist.php
and vote for ER07 (plus another 4 more boxes as you can cast a total of 5 votes).

Sincerely wishing everybody the best :)

All image sources from farm.sg

Visit to the dragon

And in case you are wondering, this post has no relation to the movie 'How to train your dragon'. I do wonder though if the movie is nice but that is digressing.

In 2008 QR brought me to Keppel @ Marina. (Psst, I know we are not on talking terms lately and I heard he tendered. So I just want to wish him well and hope he will find his avocation if he is still lost.) After that, google told me there lies a Long Ya Men (Dragon's Teeth Gate) in Singapore and I made up my mind to visit it again. (I used the word again because that night I did not realise I already saw the Dragon.... Teeth. Only after my re-visit did I realised the place looked familiar.)

As usual I 'jioed' my trek mate - CL. Haha I know she is smug that she probably is the only one I will ask along on such treks. I have to admit when I am used to something, I will not consider changing due to my lazy nature. And since she asked to meet up before she MIA in SG for 2010, I just thought it should be time to realise the sunrise in Harbourfront and walk in Labrador park with her as mentioned in the previous afterthought. However this is March, the rainy days season. So though we had a good climb up the trail, we could not catch the sun hidden behind the clouds. Thus my photos of the sunrise wasn't as splendid as previously. Sigh.

Then we headed back to Harbourfront as I wanted to use the ladies before we walk towards Labrador park. (Yes we wanted to walk instead of taking a bus but.. I come to that later.) Passed by Mcdonalds and got sidetracked to have breakfast (to replenish her battery). The only thing I have not tried is the cereal McFlurry and was thinking can I have that as breakfast. Well nobody has ice cream for breakfast but there's the cereal component. Plus CL say I never conform to the norms afterall (eh not true though). After much deliberation, here's my breakfast...

After breakfast, we were just about to start our Labrador 'expedition' when we caught sight of the rain. So we spent an hour standing and talking and people watching in Harbourfront haha. When the rain finally ligthened, we decided to take a bus down.

While walking in, these flats caught my interest. I kind of like the wooden windows.

Visited Villa Rain Tree Resort and Spa again, this time in daylight. The night view is nicer though my night photos of it were yucky haha. Anyway not publishing the day view either.

Time for my Labrador Nature Reserve Walking Trail following the guide given by nparks here.

Sidenote: I missed the casemate in Luxembourg. I had also missed the casemate in Labrador Park.. because admission ticket is required and nobody was open for operation when I was there. Sigh.

The 6 inch gun barrel
An authentic war relic discovered at the former Beach Road Camp in 2001. These cannon, aimed south and seaward with concrete barriers behind them, were originally intended as defence from coastal attacks. However, during the 1942 invasion, the Japanese attacked from the North. In the battle for Pasir Panjang, these guns aided the Malay Regiment by firing high explosive shells at enemy troops advancing along the coastal road. Tunnels and bunkers beneath the battery were used to supply ammunition and to hoise the troops.

Labrador played a significant role during World War II. Military installations were built on the highest points (now inside the nature reserve) overlooking the reserve below.

A machine gun post in this area is one of several war relics you will see. This bunker was built to guard 12-pounder guns on the hill right above.

Red beacon
Served as a navigational guide in the maritime history and marks the shortest distance between Sentosa and mainland (about 240m)

Dragon's Teeth Gate (Long Ya Men)
It was originally a natural rock outcrop that stood in the waters just off Labradors' shore. These waters now house Keppel Harbour, Singapore's main port since the 19th century. This rock outcrop used to serve as the gateway to Keppel Harbour's western entrance, acting as a navigational guide to sailors travelling through the narrow channel.

The landmark was blown up in 1848 to widen the channel for modern ships to sail through. What stands today is a symbolic replica of the original. It was installed in 2005 for the commemoration of the Singapore Celebrations for the 600th Anniversary of Admiral Zheng He, the famous explorer.

Why Admiral Zheng He you wonder? Let wiki tell you the story..

From as early as the 13th century, the Keppel Harbour waterway between Tanjong Pagar and Tanjong Berlayar and Sentosa Island had been used as a passage for ships sailing from the Straits of Malacca to the South China Sea.

In the early 1400s, the great Chinese navigator, Admiral Zheng He, could have sailed past this strait when he came to Nanyang (countries south of China) to visit every major port to set up diplomatic relations and bring back envoys to pay homage to the Ming emperor.

It is not conclusive but the Long Ya Men mentioned in his exploration records appears to be the same as that recorded by trader Wang Dayuan who, travelling extensively in the southern seas for about 20 years, provided the first description of sailing through the Keppel Harbour waterway.

Wang's record describes it as the waterway that "runs between the two hills of the Danmaxi barbarians, which look like dragon's teeth..." The dragon's teeth referred either to the prominent granite outcrops which overlooked the western entrance to Keppel Harbour, or the hills on Sentosa and the Mount Faber range.

So desu ne!

Suddenly I remember the history of Keppel Harbour in Major General William Farquhar exhibit @ NLB. Keppel Harbour, originally New Harbour, was named after Admiral Sir Henry Keppel. However it was Farquhar who discovered the deep water harbour at the western entrance to Singapore in August 1819 and called it New Harbour. He constantly advocated and argued for its use even though most of the town continued to grow up along the Singapore River. In his book, Memoris of the Raffles Museum in 1953, Carl Gibson-Hill, last British director of the National Museum opined that 'it would have been farer to have called it Farquhar's Harbour.'

Hmm sometimes it really is a matter of ..fate? Or as I was discussing with a friend, 'Life is unfair... but due to its unfairness, Life is ever-changing.. and as Life changes, can we change for better or for worst too.' As I firmly believed, 'unfair' is but a childish word that has little effect.

Halfway though the walk, CL had to leave as she had a 2nd appt but I decided to proceed on with my umbrella. I'm glad I did as at least it is something I accomplished. Righ now other than Old Ford Factory which I don't think I will visit unless I am in that area, I guess I am finally done as an internal tourist. Unviversal studio and casino and integrated resort?? Hmm I'm so keen yet. I have this strong urge, this wish, to not be in SG this year. i don't know how or what I must do.. And my mum's sad words still ring in my ears to haunt me.. But judging the behaviour exhibited in my job search.. And the feeling after I finished Labrador Park (and finish being an internal tourist)... I guess I should be resolved to do what I am supposed to do long ago.

A few days later…
While at the airport to send CL off to UK, I suddenly remember a decade ago, where I tried to send doc off to Canada but failed to see her. It took many years later to catch her in SG again. Sincerely, I want what's best for CL so if it means not seeing her for several years, if it is necessary then let it be so. That's why I chose to send her off... (other than the fact I have the car and I like to visit airpot).. hmm but right now, not catching sight of her makes me recall back doc's incident... Hmm... And I suddenly wondered when is it my turn?

Travel Fair

Judging from the masses in Suntec queuing at ASA, Dynasty, Chan Brothers and even UOB travel, I can safely conclude tourism is back on track.

Anyway I rarely visit such fair.. I have never even been to Natas Fair. Because I hate crowd. But the planning for Italy trip has been too sluggish that I needed expert advices. And these places have a plethora of advices in the forms of their pamphlets and itineraries. Even the agent in Dynasty Travel had been extremely helpful in telling me that the air tix to Rome on 9th is no longer the cheaper one. No wonder I baulked at the price when I was checking at it a few days ago. He told me during Natas fair, the tickets had been snatched already.

Anyway it had been a fruitful trip considering I came down specially for it.

Judging the references I lugged back, you can guess how heavy my bag became that I forgot I had wanted to find a friend at the office and just headed straight to the mrt... Typing this post on my journey way home.

Back to planning mode.. I realised travelling excites me.. If only I can do that for the rest of my lifetime? Maybe I really am the typical only like to play type of person. Hmm...

P/s: I really think either starhub mobile data is crappy or my handphone connection to internet is pathetic. I am almost reaching home yet I still cannot login Facebook to update my status. CMI! Luckily I have Foolsgold to amuse me else I will be so bored. (That and Quickoffice!)

PP/s: Southern Italy Threatened by Tsunami from Undersea Volcano
I came up with a conclusion that those afraid will avoid Italy and those avid chase or Tsunami/Typhoon will flock Italy. Hmm I actually would prefer people be more "kia-se"... because hotels are getting full fast....

PP/s: It took me many days.. almost to the end of the month (which was my mum's deadline to decide whether to fly to Milan first and back Rome or to fly to/fro Milan or Rome or....) to finish the planning. And even now (8th April), everything is still fuzzy because air tickets have increased and nothing is confirmed. Nothing other than the fact that I will be getting a new passport tomorrow (9th April) haha. And the fact that I am going Italy with them regardless of how broke I will be..

 By the way, I could not resist snagging this 2 "tourist cards". To think I need to even planned how many days of WC card I need... Only Venice can think of it sia..

A long awaited encounter with Buddha

It is the time of the year once again. A year ago, auntie told me that in Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastry (KMSPKS) lies one of Asia's largest Buddha. At that time, she suggested I come back for a vegetarian meal and visit the Buddha. But a year passed by me and I never did make time to drive to KMSPKS. So when mum asked if I want to follow her for tomb sweeping, I decided I better agree and then try to find time to visit the Buddha while praying.

So i sacrificed my Sunday training (I totally stopped training this week sigh. Hopefully I can finish the Italy planning today before I konked out.) and sleep to catch sunrise in KMSPKS haha.

Besides this time, I have lumix with me so time to update photos. Took some repeated shots, skipped some sights. And due to time constraint missed some sight still. So what did I accomplished this trip?

First I learnt from auntie who suddenly explained the reason for choosing block 6 because it will remind my aunties due to the old address. Somehow now that I am typing this post, I suddenly thought it might also bring some familarity for my grandparents.

Then auntie tell me that she chose KMSPKS because for temple, the land is only 5 years renewable. But here due to it being a tourist attraction, it is freehold. Google search tell me that this is one of the largest Buddhist Monasteries of Singapore in present times. It had originally started out as a remote temple intended to propagate the Dharma and provide lodging for monks who came to Singapore without any arrangements. (Not sure about the land deed though. Too lazy to research “p.)

1920 Venerable Zhuan Dao expressed his desire to construct such a temple which took one year to complete construction and commenced as the first traditional Chinese forest monastery in Singapore and later become one of the most well known international Buddhist hub.

After founder Venerable Zhuan Dao expired in 1943, in 1947 Venerable Hong Choon became the monastery's abbot. He is well known due to his success in expanding the monastery.

After his death, Venerable Hong Choon Memorial Hall, a four-storeyed building was built in honour of Venerable Hong Choon. It resembles a huge ship and consists of the kitchen, dining hall, a meditation hall, Hall of No-Form and offices for Dharma propagation and activities. And the Hall of No Form is my main agenda as it has one of the largest and most spectacular bronze image of Buddha rising to a height of 13.8 metres and weighing 55 tons.

Other landmarks I took (again for some):

Pagoda of 10,000 Thousand Buddha : The roof of the pagoda has a golden stupa that is symbolic of the Buddha's sharp piercing wisdom. Within, there is one of the largest bronze image of Medicine Buddha in Southeast Asia. Also seen are the thousands of small Buddha images. I did not even went in for this one... sigh...

Statue of Guanyin : The statue stands the Dharma Hall and the Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas.
I still remember the first time I came KMSPKS and caught sight of Guanyin Buddha. Told my mum I don't think will get lost if I catch sight of the Buddha next year. Up till now, yup I haven't got too lost. In fact I am getting familarised with this place after today's exploration.


My mum was rushing me so I did not take any more good photos that are worthy to be published. Probably the next time? But here's a recap of what I did not take...

Bodhi Tree : The sapling of this tree was brought from the sacred Bodhi tree at Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. The latter was itself brought as a spaling from the sacred Bodhi Tree of Bodh Gaya, India. It was under the sacred Bodhi tree of Bodh Gaya that Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Actually I have no idea how to take this tree.. but I was sorely tempted to hide under it and see if I can attain enlightenment (except Mum probably will drag me home.. or rather I have to follow her home as I'm not sure of the way back haha... Oh wait, if I attain enlightenment, I don't need to know the way back right? )

Hall of Amrta Vinaya (Precepts) : This is the hall where monks and nuns receive their precepts, guidelines for leading a peaceful life while spreading happiness in teh society.

Bell And Drum Tower : As per the name, this building has a bell and a drum. Everyday, in the morning, the bell is rung followed by the drum, each 108 times. In the evening, the process is repeated, nonetheless in opposite sequence. The sound of the bell and drum, it is believed, wards off troubles and adds to the wisdom.
Unfortunately the drum tower was closed when I was touring.


Dharma Hall : The two storey structure has a lecture hall on the ground floor with a Burmese-styled Buddha image and a library on the upper floor housing Buddhist scriptures and literatures.

Sairira Stupa : This one is dedicated to the founder abbot of the temple Venerable Zhuan Dao. Devotees walk clockwise around the stupa to pay their respect to the revered founder.



Hall of Great Strength : The hall is dedicated to the historical Buddha, Shakyamuni. Above His image, a higher sign reads, "The Precious (or Treasure) Hall of Great Magnificence or 'Great Strength' or 'Great Hero'." A lower sign reads "Teacher of Men and Gods". A glass stupa in front of the image of Buddha preserves some of His relics gifted to the temple by a well known temple of Sri Lanka. The Image of Buddha is surrounded by an image of Amitabha Buddha (behind), young Arahant Venerable Ananda (right) and an elder Arahant, Maha Kashyapa (left). The image of Amitabha Buddha has Avalokiteshvara or Guanyin Bodhisattva on the left and Mahasthamaprapta or Dashizi Bodhisattva on the right. Along with Amitabha Buddha, Guanyin Bodhisattva and the Maha Kashyapa form the trio called "The 3 Saints of the Western Paradise (Pureland)."

Before I left, the Hall of Great Compasion is my last stop. Also known as the The Mahakaruna, the hall is dedicated to the great compassionate virtues of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva or Guanyin. An image of Guanyin Bodhisattva with 1000 arms and eyes is right in the centre of the hall. It is flanked by Samantabhadra (Pu Xian) Bodhisattva with an elephant on the right. The bodhisattva is symbolic of perfected diligent practice of all Bodhisattvas and Buddhas and his elephant stands for the steadfastness and strength in the Bodhisattva's practice of the six perfections. Also standing close to Guanyin are Skana Bodhisattva and Sangharama Bodhisattva, both of whom are Dharma protectors. To the left, is an image of Manjushri bodhisattva.