Quantum of Solace

What’s the difference between MERDEKA DAY and NEW YEAR? Public holiday – checked, free concert- checked, fireworks – checked. So what is actually the different between the day that is shared/celebrated with the whole planet with this very special day of our- Malaysians’ own? Yes, I do agree that we shouldn’t limit the spirit of the celebration for just one day, and the love for our country shouldn’t be counted only on how big the celebration that we have. But as we already mark this date 31st of August as the birthday of Malaysia, why don’t we celebrate it the more special way? I’m all for the Merdeka Parade, but I seriously think that “Ambang Merdeka” was just lack of originality. I would suggest that we take the word “Ambang” literally by having ‘meaningful’ programmes/activities in remembrance of the sacrifices, hardship, and everything that our forefathers had gone through in getting the independence for our beloved country. Yes, we all learn our history back in school, but sho...

I was at this workshop for officials involved in gender issues. Then we came to this session where we had to state our stand whether discrimination exists in the cases given. The basic options would be whether we agree or not with the subject matter and provide the rationale for it. I’m okay with people having different views than mine, in fact I find it interesting to debate on our stands, but this particular opinion really shook the daylight out of me -- “I disagree. Because it is a masculine job, and if the woman has a responsible husband and can provide her with a beautiful life, why should the woman complains?” I just couldn’t believe what I just heard!! If I were the moderator, I would have shrieked and cast this person aside and do some serious brainwashing! However, the moderator (despite the surprised look on her face upon hearing this) politely dismissed her point and continued with the session. But I really have a problem with her opinion. And I tell you why…. 1. We were d...