Cafe Malaysia in Oman :))

Last night saw the proud moment for the owners of Cafe Malaysia in the Sultanate with the newly launched of  their cafe @Al Khuwair. Though relatively small it truly has big impact where all customers especially the locals and Asean expatriates are happy to flock there just to have some teh tarik or the the popular ABC aka Air Batu Campur (Mixed Ice Ball).

The Cafe has started its operation since end May 2013 and to date it has been operational for one month which is indeed high time for the launching ceremony. I like the deco which is simple yet depict Malaysian environment. The black and red theme also shows vibrancy and happy mood in the cafe. Also the enticing menus such as laksa Penang, mee goreng, kway tiaw goreng, sup tulang, nasi lemak with rendang daging and of cause the hot hot roti canai!!! The Cafe also serves Buffett lunch @weekends comprises of all Malaysian dishes including asam pedas, lemak kuning cili padi and rendang :)) The best and also convenient is that the Cafe also accepts catering orders. 

Just after the launching ceremony by HE the Ambassador of Malaysia to the Sultanate, all the guests were served a three course dinner Malaysian cuisine which was prepared by Chef Rid Morat. The sumptuous dishes were chicken and beef satay followed by beef broth as starters. Wow! That was yummy :)

It was followed by the main menu namely  Jasmine rice with 'percik' roast chicken, prawn sambal, chilli egg plant and garnished with 'begedil daging' or the beef ball. I strongly recommended to all customers who will visit this cafe to ask for the delicious 'ayam percik' or the roast chicken!!! The dish reminds me of Ramadhan in my evergreen homeland where we have the Ramadhan Market selling foods for Iftar and among the most sought after food is the 'ayam percik' ...

Then came the desserts. Served with the 'Kaw Kaw' Teh Tarik (pulled tea with condensed milk) was Kuih Ketayap or  the Malaysian pancake with coconut fillings. Also some cup cakes. Yet, to my sweet tooth - the best dessert was still the ABC!!! This yummy dessert suits well for the throat during summer season. Not only the taste but just by looking at it, the customers will fall in love at first sight :D

ABC or Air Batu Campur generally means  Mixed Ice Balls which comprise of smoothly crushed ice, rose syrup, palm sugar and other condiments such as corn, grass jelly and crushed nuts! Sometimes, one adds cendul, too - a green condiment made of rice flour and pandan juice ;)) All in all, the look alone is very tempting so what more the taste ... Wow! How I wish I am having it now. Be patient sweet tooth - tomorrow night you'll be tasting it or perhaps gulping it again and again. Slurppp ...

For now, I shall patiently wait for tomorrow to come ... Well, best wishes to Cafe Malaysia in Oman ;)) Way to go babe!!! Happy Launching ...

Helpers

I vividly remember a quote which was uttered to me by one of my BFF:

"Every step forward that you take, no matter how small or insignificant you think it is ... is a leap towards a better you" and indeed, this little quote I said to Ellen, my helper.

Two years have passed, which means two years she has been with me, helping me with the house chores and looking after our little Gary's need when I wasn't at home. She is my helper, a petite Filipino lady with short yet sassy hair style named ER. Oh! How time flies, and she will soon leave us ...

Before ER works for us, she was a helper to an Arab family looking after a child since the baby girl was born until the little baby turns 5 years old. ER was truly passionate about her.  She also helps them with the house chores and cooking. She has two children in her homeland who are now in their late twenties and early thirties. She also has two grandchildren from her daughter whom she communicated very often. 

Just before the child and her family left for England, ER applied for a job and came for an interview to work as a helper in our home. She fits the requirement which we looked for but obviously she can't cook our foods although we come from the Far East :D It is because our foods are different. So, I have no choice, but to learn how to cook 'my foods' from basic. Yet, I'm thankful to ER because now I could cook some basic dishes although I'm far far away from being an expert ;( For other 'complicated dishes' the in house chef is still my RY!

But, with ER at home - she helps me  with the other house chores especially to help me in preparing the ingredients for cooking, cleaning, washing and ironing the daily wear. The office attires and all other fragile garments, I prefer to send them for professional laundry and dry clean. Once a week, she will help me to water the indoor plants. And, once in a while when we have guests, ER will prepare some refreshments with the help of Mr T to do the serving. 

After one year ER with us, I brought Gary home. It is because the big house which has eight bedrooms and an hexagon hall with only three persons staying in it is indeed very quiet. So, Gary being a playful and mischievous feline, certainly makes the house warm and cheerful with his antics. Also, ER is very fond of him :)

Now, two wonderful years have passed and ER has left us for another job and I truly feel the house is empty. But, being a compassionate lady, ER has arranged for another Filipino lady to come and work with us as her replacement. When we saw the fair lady, we instantly liked her and hoped that she could deliver the job diligently. 

Also a petite lady like ER, but with fairer complexion, her name is P. We were made known that her previous job relates to baby sitting, but she prefers to do housework for a change. So, I pray that she'll adapt with the new work pattern - namely cleaning, washing and ironing just like ER. Perhaps if she could cook simple foods for us, I'll be a lot happier :)

Today, I received a message from ER that she would like to visit me and Gary, also to 'teach P' the ways of handing the house chores which we are used to :)) Since P is new and still trying her best to adjust with the new surrounding, during this first two weeks @weekends on her off day ER will come to our home and show her the routine of doing the house chores according to our liking and comfortablity. Without any doubt, I am thankful to ER for her extended help to me.

Indeed, helpers come and go, but ER is an asset to who ever employs her. She fits the role of a helper - someone who gives assistance or support to her employer. She can also be trusted to look after my little Gary particularly when I had to leave him for some chores in my homeland. At night, Gary will happily stay with her ... And now, she missed Gary, too who will be celebrating his first birthday on 30th June!!!

To ER, I pray you're happy at your new place and my gratitude to you for being a good helper to me. As of P, welcome to our home and hope this home and the work suit you. All in all, to both my former helper ER and to the newly appointed helper P, Happy Working :)  

Gary with the feather duster which ER used to dust his 'kitty's corner' ... :D

'Farewell'

While thinking of my friends who will be leaving me when summer comes and also what to scribe about them, my mind suddenly soars to an old saying by Richard Bard: "Don't be dismayed about goodbyes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again after moments of lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends."

Indeed, this month has been quite a 'nostalgic' month for me - bidding farewells to lovely friends that I had crossed path in this Land of Sindbad. Well, :( to see them leave but :) for them to see new places. A few will go back to their home-sweet-home but many will be going to other places including another desert posting, or to cool places full of cherry blossoms and some to the land fully covered by snow during winter.

Since school holidays start in mid June, most of my friends are packing their belongings after their spouses finished their tour of duty in this beautiful and hospitable country for their lovely homelands and some will cross post to another missions. Indeed, this is the life of a DS. We are used to pack and re-pack although it is an hectic 'job' to load and re-load our wardrobes and the kitchen cabinets :D 

At the same time, we are getting used to bid farewell  to old friends in one place, and soon after we are being welcome by new friends in another place! We kissed, we hugged and we waved to each other. Next, we shake hands with another and pretty soon the cycle continues and repeats itself.  We  are always on the move where in general we only stay in one place more or less about three to four years. Then we have to be prepared again to pack and re-pack!

In our new posting place or back to our homeland, our life re-cycle again except this time, we are getting older, getting bigger in size for some, getting wiser for most, and most of all with lesser children or none at all to be tagged along. They no longer kids but teenagers and adult, thus gone to colleges or the universities, or some even have their own marriage life :)

But the best part is we have more friends. Perhaps more than others. It is because we keep on making new friends at the new places and yet, still keep in contact eyes to eyes or virtually via emails, FB and other means of communications with the old friends whom we have left behind us. 

So, my dear BFF, although we have to bid you farewell today, but I am sure with the Al Mighty's will and grace, we will cross path again someday and somewhere. By then, some of us will wear glasses instead of contact lenses, less mascara and subtle makeup, prefering short and managable silver hair crowning our heads instead of the long curly blonde hairdo and wearing shorter heels instead of the 5 inch stiletto. 

Whatever we will be by then, Fair You Well for now, Dearest Friends. But, I shall always pray for your good health and well being. Also I always believe that   wherever we are, never forget our friends even though just in thoughts as stated in the lyric of a song which I am now humming - "You're always on my mind, You're always on my mind."

My BFF - AJ & LF

Farewell Brunch to AJ & LF @Paul, MGM

Happy 1st Anniversary ...

This morning, the ever vibrant ALC Members in Muscat gathered @Grand Hyatt to celebrate its First Anniversary since its inception in 052012. 

As a small group which is exclusive to only ladies from the ASEAN embassies in Muscat, it is delightful to note that they had done quite a number of wonderful and cheerful activities for its members in this beautiful land which is surrounded by bronze dunes, rugged mountains and blue ocean faraway from home :))

Since the day it was formed, the members had successfully organized some social events not only for its members but to include other invitees or guests from the host country. The ALC has show cased ASEAN cultures from member countries. First, Malaysia truly Asia showcased a colorful fashion show depicting traditional costumes from every state in Malaysia. The evergreen models captured the eyes of all the spectators. 

Caring and skillful Thailand shared fruit carving activity and 'how to cook' Thai foodies which are synonymous to Thai culture sharing is caring. Exotic and passionate Indonesia showcased its lucrative batik from several islands including Java and enchanting dances from Sumatra. Indeed, it was blissful to have unity in diversity. 

The ever wonderful and sisterly Brunei organized cooking competition for the ALC members where the main ingredient must be tapioca. It was not only fun but the members benefit from the competition where tapioca could be turned into a variety of delicious desserts. Also an informative event for all members when our dear friends from the Philippines roped in some skin specialists to share information and awareness about  health and skin care especially for the incoming summer season.

The variety of events are not only shared within members to know about each other's beloved nation. The ever energetic group also took into account the importance of good physical health to its members by organizing bowling competition @Fun Zone which was successfully organized by the Sports Committee. 

But, the highlight of the group's activity was the ALC Bazaar which was held during winter time at the Omani Women Association building in Qurum. ALC bought a sewing machine with parts of the proceeds acquired from the bazaar, and it was later presented to Sidab Women Sewing Group (SWSG). After the presentation, the members had fun time 'modeling' and 'posing' some of  the Omani dresses apart from enjoying the sumptuous brunch which was prepared by the SWSG. 

It was truly awesome that some of the ALC events received full coverage from the media including Times of Oman, Muscat Daily and The Week. Thus, a word of 'TQ' to the passionate Public Relation Committee for the great job! 

It is to be noted that the ALC group is the brainchild of five innovative and creative ladies namely, NB, NLS, MSR, DP and AJ. Indeed, they were the 'founding' members :) However, without the assistance and strong support from the other members, none of the above activities could be done or successfully executed. 

Hence, to all ALC members, Bravo for Job Well Done!!! Happy First Anniversary ALC Muscat and certainly We, now look forward to the future activities :))  Insyallah, all the well planned proposals and activities for the benefit of the members and others will certainly receive Almighty Allah SWT grace and blessing. Amin.

Superb Jugglers

"Hooray!!! Hooray!!! Holly Holly Day ... Ha Ha Ha. At last I'm free of Juggling! Juggling! Juggling! At least for two and half months," said the happy faces Superb Jugglers. That statement was the standard remark which I received from some friends when I met them and enquired about their plan for the much awaited summer season which is also the school holidays (mid June - end August)

In this foreign land, my daily routine is 'juggling' between a homemaker and to discharge my duty as a DS. Indeed, it sounds very simple as compared to some of my EW (expatriates' wives) friends who have to juggle as wives, mothers, homemakers, 4x4Ddrivers, home-school teachers, self-imposed gardeners, and many more vocations under their belts. Thus, the term 'jugglers' from one 'vocation' to another 'vocation' within one day ;) 

These thirty and forty something 'wonder women' are truly superb - they are beautiful and fashionable housewives, vogue moms, brave & careful drivers, passionate in-house doctors, great chefs, creative  homemakers, self-made interior designers, self-trained clean-house celebrity and most of the time being roped in as 'bidan terjun' evergreen models and dancers. Just name a job, and they will execute it successfully. Hence, I name them the Superb Jugglers! They're truly superb heroines and undoubtedly the true blue reality actresses in action 24/7 where no cuts or dubbing is allowed. 

As a friend and silent observer to all these Superb Jugglers, I truly give them a thumb's up and salute for their multi-tasking vocations. In one word they are labelled as housewives, yet with a much focussed 'binoculars eyes' one can vividly see them honestly and lovingly doing, executing and multi-tasking all the jobs mentioned above in just one day!

Very early in the morning they woke up to perform their prayers. Then, to softly wake up their children and husband to school and work respectively. Within seconds they have to prepare healthy breakfast and homemade foods for 'lunchbox' for the children to grab to school. Then they routinely clean the kitchen back to its spotless self! They were very lucky if their  lovable kiddos could make their own beds, or else these Superb Jugglers will do the house-keeping job, too. :-)

After the muah muah muah and bye bye bye to their destined lovers aka bread winners, they have to start the engines and carefully drive their children to school. All these took them about two to three hours from just after dawn till before the school hours begin ... 

Then, they could take a short break or a little rest an hour or two while 'kopi-kopi' @Bread Talk or 'mengeteh' @home-sweet-home while waiting for their clothes to dry in the dryer before doing the ironing. Others would turn to Vogue Cinderella while mopping the floor or dusting the sofa and 'brasso' their antique collections. Some may go to the Hypermarkets for weekly groceries. Many may be cracking their heads to prepare elaborate menus with new recipes for lunch for the better halves who will come home @lunchtime. A few will go for Kelas Mengaji, a weekly event for the hearts and souls. Thus, the list never stops ...

Sometimes, they have to spare their previous time just to contribute their part to their beloved nation by joining the 'bergotong royong' to make 'bunga manggar' or 'bunga telor' or 'bunga rampai' or 'pulut kuning' or 'kuih muih' or even to practice 'modelling' and to counting their steps for 'tarian' for some cultural shows @social events where they are the volunteers but nevertheless the true blue backbones of the active society :) 

And most of the times, they are required by their children's school to actively contribute and participate in their children's activities such as International Day, Teachers-Parents Day, School Trips and many more ... Yet, sometimes they managed to squeeze their time to have a little enjoyment @Coffee Mornings with various themes - Arabian Nite, Polk Dots, Snow White, Pink Lady, Purple Rain and the list never ends. They always have great ideas which make our lives staying here in the Land of Sindbad more lively, full of laughter and blissfully meaningful. 

At about mid-noon they'll wave each other goodbyes and heartiest hugs with the hope to meet again because they have to return to schools to fetch their children. Then they 'evolve' with the role as home-school teacher to oversee the kiddos homework, assignments and what nought after their late lunch. In the evening, these Super Wives & Moms will prepare lovely and delicious dinner for the entire family. This is also the precious time where they eat together and talk about the day's event. Also a chit chat with their loved ones after a day's work! Then the cleaning up again before ready for bed which they long for to have at least a five hours sleep. But their minds still did not stop thinking about tomorrow's routine :) 

These chores will go on till the much awaited weekend where they will share the 'work' with their better halves and to some extent with their grown up children. But for some, the  routine continues because the little kiddos need to go for Mengaji, swimming lessons, ballet dancing, summer camps or perhaps slumber nights with their peers and school mates, etc.

But, it is indeed delightful and heartening to see them doing all these tasks without grouses or complains, instead with full of pride and ever-willingness to give their best and helping hands. As an observer and their friends here, who saw them often and the opportunity to 'see-through' their active life, I'm truly amazed by these 'multi-taskers' aka the Superb Jugglers! Indeed, they all made me feel very proud of them and of course full appreciation from their life companions or better halves and most of all their children who have such wonderful Super Moms :)

To all these Superb Jugglers Friends of Mine, I am very honoured to know you and to some extent also to be part of your daily routine. Thank You ALL, and my prayers to you always for all the superb jobs you did! You are always the Friends in Need, and truly You are also the Friends Indeed!

Since Summer is approaching and the school holidays has begun, so Happy Holidays to ALL Super Wives, Super Moms and Super Friends. Indeed, you're ALL Amazing!!!  

    (This photo - for illustration only.)

3 Decades & Still Not Bored!

It was on a Saturday evening  and we had an operation 'Dinner Out' :-D 

While having an Irani cuisine in a cool food court with RY @Mersin, we talked about our children who are in our homeland. They are in their early 20s -  already working, and starting their own life. Yet, we still missed them dearly and wished we could fly to them :( But, this is part of my life as a DS, most of the time we are apart from each other physically yet always in each other's minds.

In actual fact, we just met them two weeks ago, but we felt like it has been eons. How we wished they are here with us savoring the delicious saffron rice with the chicken and lamb kebabs, also the fresh tabouleh and healthy Arabic salads. My daughter, Ms Elle would surely love this!

While we're happily eating, RY narrated a conversation which he had with his daughter when she visited him last winter. Among others which he vividly remembered was a question asked by Ms Elle. She asked, "Daddy, aren't you not bored of playing the PS3 with the same game for the past thee years?" 

Her Dad usually passes his time after a day's work in the office facing his PS3 at his home-sweet-home after dinner before going to bed. While he concentrates with the  game, I will lay besides him and busy myself with keying or scribbling some words into the iPad :)  This happens if we have no events or functions in the evening :D

Anyway, the answer or perhaps more of an anology which RY gave really made Ms Elle's beautiful eyes rolled 360 degrees :D

"My dear Elle, I have been living with someone for nearly 3 decades, and still I'm not bored of her ... What 3 years are you talking about?" Upon hearing the reply, Ms Elle stunned, blushed and later nodded her head while murmured, "Yeah, Yeah Dad, Hi Hi ..." And, later they both burst into laughter like there'll be no tomorrow :D

As for Ms Elle, sheepishly she said to her Dad, "Indeed, you're Daddy and I'm very pleased to hear that ..." Since then Ms Elle never brought the matter about her Daddy playing the same game over and over again of PS3 which she and her brother bought for their Dad on his birthday when we stayed @Golders Green, a beautiful and serene place in North East London. 

To my RY, my heartiest TQ for the lovely answer which you gave to our daughter. Indeed, I'm very touched and truly delighted with the remark :) And, I'm in cloud9! 

Yeah, RY and I have been together for nearly 3 decades, and so do I - never got tired of him. We have gone through life together more than half of our age. Many obstacles and hurdles we have leaped successfully. We have brought up our children with great care and full of love. We saw them grow to be fine young men and also a sweet young lady! Now, they have lives of their own.  We have been to many places together and enjoy our life to the fullest. Yet, we still feel not enough of each other.  Alhamdulilah ... 

As a trailing DS to him, I tried my level best to be the very best of his companion and partner at every posting places - to the rich oil fields, to the rich soil covered by paddy fields and teak woods, to the land of Snow White and now to the Land of Sindbad! We acclamatised and served our best in these places which have their own beautiful stories ;)

To date, I happily and willingly followed him every where he tagged me and did my part and duties as his spouse and to uphold the good name of our nation which we represent. And, so far I've no regrets, instead I'm more thankful and blessed to Al Mighty Allah SWT with my decision. Amin.

(Note: The bright full moon on the night of Nisfu Shaaban as bright as our love ...)

Dates' Season

The dates' season is here again ...It also  shows the scorching Summer Time is once more in its cycle! And, the air conditioner will be on full blast for 24/7! That means the electricity bill will soar higher  and higher, too. LOL :D

However, most of us here will never complain ... It is because the piling of dates which comes once a year during this summer time is very much awaited by us and more 'sweeter' this particular year since it coincides with the incoming holy month of Ramadhan :) So, the hot sun is very much needed for the dates to ripe.

While looking at the fresh dates which I have just received from our very thoughtful neighbors, my little heart brightens with full of 'kesyukuran' that Allah SWT grants and bless me with beautiful and hospitable friends. Then, my mind soars to my dear elderly mother in my hometown whom I truly know how much she loves fresh dates especially during Iftar and imsak' ... Oh, how I wish I could send some to her :(

Anyway, here in Muscat, apart from eating the dates raw, where upon it sometimes tastes like pure honey there are many desserts which are made of dates. Among others the most popular ones are the halwa, moist dates' cake dates' chocolate  and dates' pudding. All are yummy :))

Throughout my stay here, it is a very common gesture that when the Omanis welcome their guests to their homes or at functions, the sweet meat halwa will be served to their guests with special Omani coffee in a small dainty cup called Khawa. It is their tradition and I am very pleased to learn and emulate their hospitality and beautiful culture.

I also love the Omani halwa which looks like the Malaysian dodol which is made of glutinous flour, coconut milk and gula Melaka. The halwa's main ingredients are dates, starch, eggs, sugar, ghee, cardamom and rose water. But the rose water is usually brought in from a mountainous region called Jabal Akhdar. These ingredients are mixed in a specified proportion and cooked in a large pot called Al Mirjal for not less than two hours with continuous stirring. 

Indeed, once it is cooked it is best to eat while it is still hot! I had great time enjoying hot and delicious halwa when my better half and I were invited to a function in a guest house located in a serene palm garden in Samayil. Normally, I would only take a teaspoon of halwa but in this exceptional beautiful surrounding, I was able to finish 3 spoonful of honey like halwa! 

However, another way to experience the hot halwa - a person may go to Muscat Festival (Cultural and Heritage Site) which is held annually during Winter Season ;) But in most cases halwa is served at room temperature because it could last for months :)

(Note: Different types of Omani dates - the golden yellow and the ruby red!)

Signature Dish ...

At about noon today, I received a delightful message together with a photo of a very familiar dish from my DIL. She wrote, "Hi Mama, today I made your signature dish for Mr Hubby ..." And the picture shown was a platter of 'chokodok ikan bilis with sambal kicap!'

I quickly ran to my other half who was watching the television in the lounge and said, "RY, our DIL cooked my signature dish for our son. Looked at the picture she sent. Not bad huh ..." Spontaneously I gave him my iPhone and showed the message plus the photo :D

He smiled and said, "Great, indeed this time he made a right choice ..." And he quickly   continued, "M, for someone who doesn't   know how to cook (yours truly) and to have a signature dish under her name, that was really  something ... " I looked at him and his cynical cheeky smiles with rolled eyes. But, I can never get angry with him ... Instead, we burst into   laughter happily!

As a DS I must confess that I can't cook. In fact, I admit that RY is a good cook and me together with his children love his  cooking. Among others, his lamb stew which is best eaten with the French Bread. Also all the grilled foodies which he cooked over rubber woods the traditional way especially the simple grilled beef or the ikan jenahak bakar! If he cooked these dishes, I could finish a kilo of grilled beef in one go, or the whole grilled   fish in just one helping ... Hi Hi Hi

Anyway, back to the so called signature dish. In actual fact, it is a very simple food known as chokodok which my late Grandmother Nyai loved to prepare for us as tea time foodies. She also prepared a special sambal to dip with each time she prepared the food for us. Since my siblings and I loved to eat them, she passed the recipe to my mother and each time we meet or group together in  my  Mom's home @Happy Village, my Mom will never fail to cook and serve to us the dish!

When I got married, my dear better half knew that I can't cook. But, one day I surprised him with my late Nyai's recipe and served him at tea time. Indeed, he liked them very much especially to eat the chokodok which was made from flour, some anchovies and Bombay onions as well as cut spring onion. Add enough water to the ingredients. But, this chokodok must be deep fried. As for the sambal kicap, to make it more umph to it, add a sprinkle of limau kasturi ;))

Anyway, I am very happy that my DIL could make the 'signature dish' for her husband, which was one of my son's favorite food and the only foodies which fortunately or unfortunately his Mom could only cook for him and her family :( Also, I'm very pleased that my DIL has learnt one of the first lesson or the art of capturing the heart of one's husband is via the food! Bravo DIL :D

To this newly wed, I wish you both the good life and success in every good deeds you do. May Allah SWT protects you throughout the journey of your marriage life. If there are obstacles and hurdles in between the journey, just take it as a test for there is no easy sailing before we could reach the desired destination. In fact, all those tests or challenges will further strengthen your love and relationship and thus make your marriage life more  blissful! 

As a Mother to both of you, my prayers always to the Happy Couple. Enjoy life to the fullest and Live Happily :))

Conversations with Gary ...

I was waiting for my better half to come home from work one sunny afternoon, when I spotted Gary was lazying on a table in the guest's room which among others 'housed' an antique cupboard full of cats' collection. It has been with me for almost 15 years and since then has been part of my sentimental collection which I tagged along to every posting places.

Well, I don't know what Gary was thinking when I spotted him looking at the cupboard. Perhaps he was 'admiring' my collections when I saw him :) or may be he detested my hobby out of envy? Hi hi hi, only Allah SWT knows ...

Anyway, very slowly, I went to Gary and captured a pose of him :) He did not smile but he just looked at me as if saying, "it's ok Ma, go on and click more photos of me ..." So, I began clicking more pictures of him in various styles and positions as if he is a professional 'cat model' and I'm the the 'amateur photographer.'

After I've finished with the few clickings, I held him in my arms and patted him. He became so 'manja' and at times a little 'mengada-ngada' when I began to stroke his grayish head and scratched his whitish neck and throat :D 

While lovingly patting and stroking him, I began to converse with him. I told him how much I loved him and his presence in our house has brought happiness to me and his Dad! Even though  I did not receive any answer verbally from him, but I knew he understood me very well because he 'meowed' back and looked at me into the eyes. His tail swung rapidly as if he replied "I love you too, Mama" and agreed with what I said to him :)

In fact, in a week's time will be his first birthday. So, I asked him what he wants? A new collar? He just looked into my eyes while his paws were scratching my fingers as if saying "No Mama, I don't like collars." Ho Ho Ho, yeah I had forgotten about it. "I'm very sorry my dear," I told him nicely and continued stroking his long grey hair. And, he later licked my fingers.

Indeed, Gary never likes the kitty's collar, even when we put the personalized chartreuse collar on the first day when we took him home in Qurum29 from the pet-shop. He felt so uncomfortable and kept scratching his neck. In the end, we took the collar off and since then we knew that he was very pleased with the 'freedom' ... He ran freely and happily across the room, which is now became his room. 

I later carried Gary to the sofa and  continued with our conversations. I narrated to him about the story of how I started the cats' collection which he stared or gazed widely earlier on. It all began when I was a trailing spouse to Myanmar.  I went to a Charity Fair organized by the British Women Association. There were many things being put on sale. Among others were beautiful British handicrafts and delicious foodies.

But, at one corner of the table, I saw a tall white porcelain 'cat' waiting for someone to take him home. He captured my eyes and heart instantly, and pretty soon he was in my arms and to home-sweet-home in Yangon.  That was how I started collecting 'cats' and since then it has included cats' collection from all over the world which are made of crystals, woods, metals, and etc. Some of them were gifts from my children, closed-friends, in-laws and former students who knew about my 'hobby' :D

Listening to my stories made Gary more 'manja' to me. I would like to think so! Or may be he was bored. I don't know. It is because he did not fidget, instead he kept himself calm and the more I stroked his head, the more his eyes became droopy and eventually he fallen asleep on my lap :)

But, I slowly woke him up when I heard the automatic gate was opened which signaled to me that my better half has arrived home from work. He quickly jumped from the sofa and run towards the door to patiently wait for his Dad to pat him - the routine :)

Anyway, I'm truly blessed with his existence and presence in my home. He gives us laughter with all his antics. Since I set my eyes upon him @Sabco about a year ago, I have fallen in love with his cuteness and mischief. I have chosen him over the others. He was active and the only one playing in the pet cage, while the others were either sleeping or just lazying themselves  in the enclosure. All my thanks and love to Gary who till today has been my wonderful and playful 'son' ... Alhamdulilah.

Blessed Book

In two weeks time, with Allah SWT grace and will, insyallah I'll be able to welcome the Holy Month of Al Quran again. It has been a year after year event. It has passed my 50th year and, today I'm asking myself "what have I achieved?" 

As a DS, for the past two decades my life has been blessed to see some parts of this beautiful world. From my evergreen homeland to the spectacular land of bronze desert of Kuwait where the temperature sometimes soared to 50 degrees Celcius. Next, to an exotic teak tropical woods but lovingly covered with glittering rubies and sapphires. After being adorned with layers and layers of Burmese silk, I was soon taken to the fantasy 'Land of Snow White' where in this cosmopolitan city I could walk miles and miles to window-shop along the Oxford Street, browsing @Liberty and finally stopped at Harrods. 

If being covered with the enchantingly cooling whitish snow at Hyde Park isn't enough for me, I am now blissfully surrounded by the warmth and soft sandy dunes on one side and the other by the pristine coastline of the blue ocean till the Gulf of Eden ;) Yet, during winter season the temperature will suddenly drop to zero at the highest peak of Jabal Sham aka the Snake Canyon. It was indeed, a wonderful feeling while being entertained by cheerful friends under the bright moon light and over hot creamy coffee with delicious tom-yam soup and at the same time merrily surrounding the scarlet blazing bonfire just to keep us warm :)

Reminiscing the happy moments and blissful experiences both past and present in this cosy room which is filled with aromatic sweet scent from the Omani frankincense, I said to my little heart - "Be Thankful with what you have, you have no idea how many people would love to have what you have got!" ...

Alhamdulilah, all praise to Allah SWT for all the worldly gifts for me to see and experience in the lovely side of this world. I don't know about my life in the hereafter, although I pray and doa that my life there will be as blissful as in today's world. Insyallah, and I'll never stop praying for the truth to come. I also told myself that with all those bountiful gifts of sound mind, good eye sight, good hearing, lovely taste buds and all the wonderful things and happy family life that I received in this worldly world, indeed I am truly one of His Al Mighty privilege servants. Amin. 

So, in return what shall I give or do to His Almighty Allah SWT for all the beautiful 'presents' which Allah has bestowed upon me? I know Allah doesn't  need or want anything from me except Allah wants me to 'never forget' HIM. This is also the 'last' word from my Mom each time I called her and just before I put down the receiver. She never fails to remind me although I am no longer in my teens anymore and knowing that I have grown and married children of my own :D 

But, I took her word with lots of 'Terima Kasih, Mak' because that shows she loves me full hearted with all her heart and soul, which undoubtedly reflected in her name Rahmah. I also believe a person will not remind us of anything unless he / she truly loves us.  The remembrance of Allah is not difficult, isn't it? Just anytime and anywhere to zikir  'SubhaanAllah' apart from executing all the Rukun Islam and Rukun Iman. Alhamdulilah, to Allah SWT again for honoring me with a wonderful late Dad and strong hearted Mom Rahmah who did their duties and responsibilities very well by engulfing me with all the basic foundation of Islam and instilling in me the reading and knowledge of the Holy Al Quran, the Blessed Book!

So, in this final month of Shaaban while waiting eagerly but patiently for the Holy Month of Ramadan to come, I am now starting to flick open the Blessed Book which my dear better half has presented to me and recite its contents and its meaning via the translation published by Jakim. I also vividly remembered the words said by one of the  'Spirited Sisters' in her workshop, "in the next life, each person will recite to Allah SWT all the Al Quran he / she knows and be elevated in Jannah with each verse and his / her place will be at the last ayat which he / she knows." Allahualam. But, I strongly believe that the messages and teachings in the Blessed Book truly provide guidance for all mankind and me to progress and become dignified and respected 'khalifah' in this worldly world and also in preparation for my time in the hereafter. 

To me and all the people around me, 'Selamat Membaca & Memahami' the Blessed Book Al Quran nul Karim ... Amin.

(Note: To my RY, please accept my heartiest and sincere Thanks for this Blessed Book)

Spirited Sisters

Today, out of the blue I decided to join a 'Ramadan Course' organized by a group of wonderful expatriate wives whom I like to name them as "spirited sisters" in this blissful land far away from home. I went there without any expectations except to say hello and wish them 'Salam Ramadan' which we are eagerly waiting to come :)

However, when I stepped into the humble yet cozy and cool room which I later found out to be the place for the 'sharing of knowledge' I felt so blessed that Allah SWT touched my little heart to join them. There, waiting at the entrance were volunteers who did the registration while some with their ever smiling faces were seen greeting and distributing some files and goody bags to the participants. In fact, I was really touched by a warm gesture shown by one of the sisters who went all out to spare for me a 'purple' file just to match the purple goody bag, when in passing I told her that I like purple colour :)

Alhamdulilah, all praise to Allah SWT that it was the second good sign of happiness which I acquired in just a few minutes after I entered the cool room. After that, I said hello and shook hands to some of the sisters  whom I knew. Soon after, I was introduced to a few participants who later became my new found friends from other countries. It was certainly a blessing to know them all with one purpose to further understand the soulful Rahmah of Ramadan.

We were divided into groups of four per group, and all together were seven groups. I was truly delighted that the members of my group are not only sweet people but also very knowledgable. One of them is still studying an architecture course in Scotland, while the other two were former professionals in their respective fields in the private sectors before they followed their spouses in this oil rich land.

Then, the 'Ramadan Course' took its full swing when one of the sisters was given the responsibility to conduct the course in a 'workshop' style or manner with slide presentations and followed by group assignments as well as Q&A. Indeed, it was truly a refresher course for me who has been nearly a decade away from work. Here,  once again I was able to taste the stimulating event of a workshop - discussing, brainstorming and put the thoughts into words and drawings, also one of us was made as a spokesperson!

While hearing the on-going discussions and sharing of knowledge with fellow sisters, my heart silently soared to the Al Mighty for the blissful morning and the sacred achievement that I've gained. Suddenly came to my mind the words of Camille Pissarro "Blessed are they who see things in humble places when other sees nothing." Indeed, the humble gathering turned out to be one of the biggest event of my life in particular the meeting of the minds with these spirited sisters ;)) TQ all for the lovely food for thought. May all your good deeds be repaid by Allah SWT ..

(TQ to Sofia, our spokesperson for the 'bubble' ...)

"I Survived ..."

"Thank You to the Camel's Milk" said an amazing Lilianne Donders who is living an eventful life in the Middle East. That was among the first words she said to the Members of the AWG, when we visited her at her Camel Farm in Seeb last Spring.

(Note: With Lilianne and Zahra - a rare white camel, @The Camel Farm)

The tough and strong yet a truly beautiful lady who was ruggedly dressed in a flower power blouse and a pair of khaki pants really amazed me and my friends. Indeed, she has survived from the 'killer' cancer for the past ten years. She is now leading a healthy life and continue to consume the camel's milk. She also busied herself with many charitable projects namely Caravan for Cancer and Caravan for Hope.

Since then, she has rented a place in Seeb and turned it into a farm which housed more than five camels. The purpose is to have no shortage of camel's milk for her consumption. She is also a staunch supporter of Camelicious products from UAE. 

During her short briefing, she quoted Hareb Juma, "Camel milk has always been a traditional staple for the Bedouins ... research has now scientifically proven that it has incredibly health benefits. Thus, she also distributed to us pamphlets about Camelicious as well as generously served all of us with fresh from her farm some warm camel's milk and homemade chocolates also from camel's milk :))

Before we left the Farm, we thanked Lilianne for the warm hospitality and sharing her life as well as passion to us. As a DS, indeed I learned a lot from her, especially about love and survival. We left the Farm with many prayers and all our hearts go to Lilianne and pray for her success who is very passionate when she talked about her camels especially Zenobia and Zahra (rare white camels) as well as Zubeida and Sheba.

(Note: Cassandra - Former AWG President is helping and serving us with the Camel's Milk @The Farm) 

Fruitful Life!

There is a saying which I always like to quote and share with my children and friends: life is too short, so give our best in what we do, and enjoy life to the fullest :))

In this country where the warm weather is most of the time longer than the cool season, it makes me prefer to stay @home-sweet-home or attend activities which are held indoors instead of outdoors. One of the monthly activities I joined was the MQ Book Club. It comprises of a small group of 12 persons from many nationalities who love to read and share the knowledge of what they read (in most cases we already decided what book to read and discuss at the  monthly gathering). Among others, Tuesday with Morrie, Autumn Melody, Sharon and MIL, Aleph, Wolf of the Plain and many more. It also forms as a discourse or brainstorming session of a particular book which normally leads to further fruitful discussion of a related topic. 

It was during one of these gatherings that I met an author of a book Before Becoming a Legend whose book was chosen by our group for us to read and discuss. Her name is Professor Zahida Ijaz and her lovely daughter in law is also one of the members of our Book Club.

(Prof Zahida is signing her book for my keep-sake. TQ Prof.)

This 'living legend' is someone whom I adore  and  admire even before I met her in person, and to this day has live her life to the fullest despite her inability to walk due to polio since aged one. Despite her 'handicap' which the normal people say, see and observe, she has indeed become a legend against all odds, 'harrasments' and challenges she faced.

I truly liked her statement "I am not disabled. I just cannot walk." She truly believes in herself. It is because if we were to look around us, there are many so called 'abled people' (not deaf, not blind, not mute or not handicapped), yet they were not abled to do many things. What more to achieve the highest accolade like what Professor Zahida has achieved. To me, when people uttered the word 'handicapped' it is not physical but just the mind (unsound). 

The fruitful life which Professor Zahida is now experiencing is something which she truly deserved.  Also her book was not only inspirational to the readers but it goes deeper into our hearts which was based on her true life story - the sweet sour journey of her life, the trials and tribulations she faced during that passage of life, and all the achievements she achieved where in most cases were after a long struggle. In short, never once she got it easy! Indeed, that achievements made it all sweeter for her and in my case more tear drops of happiness for her ;))

As a DS in this desert land far away from home, Professor Zahida is like a second Mom to me. A naturally caring person she never chooses her friends, and most of all she devoted her life to her understanding and loving late parents, her beloved late husband, her wonderful children and her 'hunger knowledge' students. Hence, it is not a surprise if she is known as a 'celebrity compassionate teacher, to all her former students. 

Her honesty and sincere heart in believing His Al Mighty's power and our Prophet Mohamad SAW (pbuh) gives me strength for I, too believe in HIM. Her inspirational and motherly words will always be my guiding light while I travel in my journey of fruitful life. I sincerely thankful to His Al Mighty for giving me the opportunity to cross path with someone so brave and cheerful as her who lives and enjoys life to the fullest. And to Professor Zahida, all prayers and love for you. :)

 

Sharing is Caring

I always believe that each person is born unique :)

I may know one thing, but most of the time I don't know many things. And, I think most people do. That is why there is a saying, "we aren't perfect" for as long as we are human. But, what we know, we should share with others and what we don't know, we should learn from the others who know and also willing to share the knowledge with us. In one sentence, it means 'sharing is caring.'

So, as part of my life as a DS in a foreign land, I've never failed to learn new things - be it from colleagues, new found friends or even people on the street. There are many talented persons around us! But, most of the time I learned and acquired new knowledge from the beautiful mind people around me namely my colleagues from different missions who are ever willing to share their know-how with me and my friends.

True enough I was able to learn the art of carving from a caring colleague from Thailand. Although it was not an easy skill to acquire, yet we were able to at least have the knowledge to hold the carving knives - the proper way :D We were intrigued with the carver who was an expert in her field and also her patience to teach us the art. 

Similarly, I was shown how to practice yoga for purposes of good  breathing and posture from an Indian colleague. At the same time, a Palestinian friend showed us the beauty of her country though the various beautifully designed handicrafts that were on put on display when she entertained us over one coffee morning. From the information and  knowledge which were shared by my friends to me, I got to know their countries, their people and their beautiful cultures.

In return, I must also share what I know with them about my beloved country and if I am not able to to do that, I must find a way to do it - perhaps by inviting other people from my country to share what we have in Malaysia to our friends who are thirsty of knowledge to be brought home to their homeland. 

Indeed, I did when in one coffee morning, I show-cased to all my friends about the intricacy and beauty of our Malaysian batik in our residence @Rumah Malaysia in Qurum29. I was fortunate to be assisted by lecturers and students from UiTM to practically show how to chant batik paintings where my friends were able to try the paintings themselves using wax and colours. Indeed, it was not only fun to learn new things, but it was also like a life time experience to most of them which they truly appreciate. In short, since we all care for each other in this blessed land, so we also share with what we know with our friends. 

Below 1: An  article about learning new art from Thailand in the Times of Oman.

Below 2: An article about the Malaysian show and activity in Muscat Daily.

Ramadan is here again :)

An article in Oman Observer dated 25.07.2012 featuring Ramadan in my beloved homeland while I am far away from home-sweet-home ...

Browsing through the above article, which was written by Raal, a journalist who interviewed me about spending the holy month in Oman truly reminds me of the soon to come Ramadan, the sacred month for all Muslims and Me. Wow! How time flies ... 

It is almost a year since I braved through my fasting time in a scorching hot summer season last year in Muscat. Now, Ramadan will be here again, precisely in about three weeks time. Alhamdulilah, indeed I'm looking forward to do my duty in this beautiful land for the third time. Insyallah.

One of the things that beautifully happened during fasting time in Muscat is observing the prayers and iftar together among the Malaysian community at weekends both in Rumah Malaysia  and at other Malaysians' home. At other times, we were invited by our hospitable neighbors to break fast at their homes in a traditional Omani ways. 

Normally, while waiting for the Azan, we would interact with the host / hostess families and with other invitees. Once the call of the prayers by the Muezzin is heard, the host invited us to breakfast with the delicious fresh Omani dates, followed by some desserts and drinks. It was indeed blissful to quench our thirst with some Zam Zam water and other drinks such as laban and also the signature lemon mint in such a lovely summer evening.

After the iftar, we took our ablution and performed the Maghrib prayer together in a true Muslim brotherhood and sisterhood feelings irrespective of our nationality. It was a wonderful blissful feelings of the heart when we made doa and followed by chanting of the Selawat to our Beloved Prophet Mohamad SAW during the hand shakes which only showed the strong ukhwah among us the Muslim people. Soon after, all of us  gathered   together for a special dinner which was prepared by the host and his   family. Usually, it was a big feast with Omani delicious foodies such as harees, muqalab and mishkah as well as other sumptuous delicacies including the famous Um Ali and luqaimat ;)

Alhamdulilah, one day of fasting has passed and we look forward to the next day of performing our duty   until its completion and also to welcome the Eid Fitri.  However, during the holy month of Ramadan also we took the opportunity to perform the nightly congregational Terawih prayers at the host's home after the sumptuous iftar and isyak prayers. Although it is non obligatory or must-do, it is indeed advisable (sunat) to perform this prayer in Jamaah after the Isyak prayers. I truly enjoyed performing the Terawih prayers with fellow Muslimah where the focal point of these prayers is the focal point of Ramadan itself namely the Holy Quran. 

Although, I do miss fasting like I did in my homeland, but with the strong ukhwah shown by my fellow countrymen and hospitable neighbors, the performing of fast during the holy Ramadan in Muscat is truly blessed. Alhamdulilah. 

Snaking up the Green Mountain

One sunny morning just before the beginning of Summer Season last year, a friend of mine RJ called to find out if I'm free to join her and some other ladies to Jabal Akhdar aka The Green Mountain. Quickly and positively I answered 'Yes!'

So, that beautiful morning was the start of a fruitful journey for me to one of the most magnificent places in Oman. I like to name the place as the Green Mountain aka the heaven on earth! Not only it was an amazing place to go and worth while to spend for a whole day trip but the spectacular view throughout the two and half hours snaking journey was indeed mesmerizing and enchanting. In fact, it was truly fascinating to watch the lush green mountain 'layer by layer' as we weaved through the snaky road that to me words just could not describe the beauty ...

In a rugged safari beige American Jeep, RM - a Kiwi friend drove the vehicle which took me, RJ and BB to that memorable excursion :) Accompanied by beautiful songs from the CD player our journey was never bored. So do the winding road which was wide and evenly tarred  throughout the journey brought us safely till we reached our blissful destination. 

I was amazed that the snake like road from the City of Nizwa towards the Green Mountain was truly safe and reasonably   wide for both vehicles - for those going up the mountain and those coming down the hill. Throughout the journey there are clear signage which provide information and guides to the travelers including us ;))

Once we reached the Green Mountain, we visited the pomegranate  farms and the blooming Rose Garden. Meeting the hospitable local Omanis who briefed us about the place which intertwined with colorful stories made our eyes wide awake and our ears fully elert, in particular the making of the rose water which they normally used in the halwa or sweet meat. I was deeply interested in knowing the process of making the famous rosé water the traditional way from a very veteran Omani man. Although the process took him hours but the result of obtaining the pure rose water was indeed worth while and profitable to him :))

The experience of 'climbing' the snaky Green Mountain aka heaven on earth in a rugged FWD was something I could not forget as part of my stay in this enchanting land. To His Al Mighty, with my two hands I praise upon you for the opportunity you gave me and the joy I encounted in one of the blessed land of yours. Amin.

Beautiful Beginning in Muscat

My life as a DS in Muscat begins on 11 May 2011. Today, it has been slightly more than two years that I've lived in this beautiful city in one of the oil rich Arabic nations.  Yet, I have never grown tired to know more and to explore further about this part of the historic world - the Sultanate of Oman. With an estimated 309,000sq km and a population of about 2.7 million people, there are many things for me to find out and learn from them ...

In fact, last week my ALC friends and I went to visit the Center for Omani Dress (COD) in Mawaleh which is run and directed by  a wonderful lady who has stayed in Oman for more than 21 years named Julia Al Zadjali. 

According to Julia, the Centre is registered with the Omani Ministry of Culture and Heritage under the name Museum of Omani Dress. The main purpose of the Centre is to preserve the nation's dress identity. She also has written a book The Traditional Dress of Oman which is full of illustrations and full coloured photographs of women adorned in their  national dress which is very useful for not only to the locals but to us who are for the time being are residents in Muscat.

In fact, the COD was the second place for Omani dresses which I visited since my arrival to this scenic city. The first was  a place called The Ladies of Sidab where I went with my Perwakilan Muscat Ladies and later with the ALC Patrons. It was in this special place also that I had my first taste of trying and wearing the Omani Woman's Dress. My group and I were warmly welcome and well treated by the Omani hospitality with a Fuala, which is a traditional welcome with Omani Coffee known as Khawa, sweet meet halwa and delicious dates. 

After we had a fun time posing in some of the dresses which were available across the region namely from Muscat, Sur, Dhofar, and many more, we were invited for a sumptuous  lunch including maqbous, a rice dish which has tinged yellow saffron and cooked over with chicken or lamb specially prepared by an Omani cook for us. But, I loved the rukhal bread most - a thin round bread which is baked over a fire made from palm leaves.

Alhamdulilah, all praise to Allah SWT for all his blessings and opportunity that I was able to experience wonderful and memorable moments with the hospitable Omani women that I met at both the COD and @Sidab. Not only it was nice knowing and interacting with them, but most of all for the opportunity and awareness in understanding their cultures and traditions.  Amin.

Father's Day

I was attending a Coffee Morning today to bid farewell to a friend who will be leaving us for another posting place in the West. While enjoying the delicious food prepared by the lovely hostess, I heard my mobile was buzzing ... It was a FW by my better half who received this wonderful message from his daughter on Father's Day. The beautiful words straight from her heart:

"I know I haven't been the easiest daughter to handle, but I do try my best to be the best daughter for you. Thanks for always being there for me and for being the 'awesomess' dad ever. Happy Father's Day Daddy!!! I love You, so much."

Wow!!! I can truly feel how happy and euphoric plus blissful my better half is feeling the moment he read the beautiful words written by his one and only daughter. Alhamdulilah. Indeed, she is now 22+ and already a grown up lady. She is now working and earning her own, although her Dad still supports her with the basic housing allowance and car maintenance. 

But, most of all both me and her Dad are truly happy that all our children have finished their studies. Despite me has to trail their father to all the posting places, Alhamdulilah  all our children are able to fan for themselves. They only followed us when they were toddlers till high schools, and when they entered the Universities, they were already on their own. On our part, we only guide them and give advices when they approached us and in need of them. In most cases, we oversee them from afar and watch them grown :)

So, on this Father's Day, I also vividly remember my late Dad who has left me for the hereafter ... I know, I owe him a lot for all that he had given me - mostly the endless and boundless love and also the need and importance of education, which he instilled upon me when he was alive. I truly missed my Dear Abah. I also know, he doesn't want anything from me except some doa and Al Fatihah.

To my Abah (& Mak), my heartiest Thank You for bringing me to this world. Alhamdulilah, I have tasted my share as a Mom and also knew that my better half is an awesome Daddy to all his children. 

Al Fatihah to my Dearest Abah & Happy Father's Day to RY. You're a great Dad to our wonderful children.

My late Abah. I truly missed you. Al-Fatihah to my Abah.

Between Two Cities

This is the back cover of my book, Myanmar - Seeing is Believing which was published in 2002 by IT Myanmar. The title of the poem was Between Two Cities.

Since my Yangon days, as a DS - I have the opportunity to reside in two other wonderful cities, namely the City of London and the City of Muscat.

London is a cosmopolitan city covered with snow in winter 

Muscat is surrounded by dunes and bronze deserts every year

London's weather is cold that I have to dress in leather and wool

Muscat is so hot that I wear sundresses to keep me fresh and cool

London provides the chance in summer that makes me a little tan

Muscat makes me feel elegance when I dressed up like Harem Al Sultan

London makes me walk and weave the streets that makes me fit and strong

Muscat gives me all the time to write since the weather outside is truly warm

In London, I stayed in an English cottage somewhere in a Jewish town

In Muscat, I lived on a hill in Qurum29 which is quiet from any sound 

In London, I had the honour to meet the Queen at Buckingham Palace

In Muscat,  I'm truly thrilled to shake hands with the Sultan in His Majesty's  Palace

In sum, both cities are very special to me for they provide not only the best places to live and surrounded by beautiful scenery and magnificient buildings, but most of all they provide  wonderful meaning of life to me by meeting hospitable local friends, fellow countrymen and colleagues from all over the world where we had the chance to interact, visit their homes and understand each others unique traditions and culture. 

Splashes! Splashes! Splashes!

The old year has gone and the new year is coming. That's the meaning of Thingyan or water festival which we celebrated every April during our 5 years stay in Yangon. 

From the window of my 'haunted' whitish bungalow, I could hear Splash! Splash! Splash! sounds. Oh ... The sounds actually came from my children who were running with their water guns 'attacking' and 'shooting' our helpers' children. In return they sprayed my kiddos with water from the water hoses connected to the taps :) 

Wow! That was really fun and I don't want to miss the celebration, too. So, I quickly called my ever obedient helpers, both Saroja and Mumu to join me to the garden. Together, we splashed water against   each other from the buckets and made ourselves totally drenched to the skin from 'man made rain' which the people in Myanmar believe is to wash away our sins.

Indeed, this time of the year also represent spring time where all flowers such as laburnums, violets, ruby red ingyin and yellow padauk are blooming. In particular, the yellow padauk where the flowers are the size of tiny bees has sweet scented fragrance. They lured and attracted most Myanmar women to wear them in their hair.

In fact, the next day, my family and I were also very fortunate to be invited by the Myanmar MOFA to join the celebration with the State Leaders, government officials and fellow members of the diplomatic corp @The Mayor's Water Festival Pavilion. We joined the singing and dancing which were performed by the celebrities and other guests while splashing waters against each other to mark the beautiful celebration. 

After feeling exhausted to the bone with singing and dancing under the 'man made rain' we were recharged with generous and delicious Myanmar cuisines such as the famous Mohinga and a dessert called Moke Let Saung (cendul) which is made of rice flour and coconut milk.

All in all, we all had a great time together playing water with our helpers, colleagues and friends during Thingyan Festival and always look forward to the event to come year after year. For my friends, far and near, if you are with us then, I'm pretty sure you, too will enjoy all the fun which we were experiencing in the land not just full of pagodas, but also rich with teak woods and glittering gems.

 

Gifted Persons

When I was young, I have heard of the words 'orang alim' or bomoh' or 'dukun' from my paternal grandmother (Nyai) who was a 'mak andam' and 'mak bidan'. She told me that those people were gifted persons, who were given certain divine knowledge and skills to assist other people  who were in need such as to cure certain illnesses, etc. But, sometimes they were paid for their assistance to cure the patients, although most of the time, their services were free. 

Being a 'mak andam' and also a 'mak bidan' during her life time, I would like to think that my late Nyai was also a gifted person based on the skills she rendered. In fact, on many occasions, I had the opportunity to be tagged along by her to the villagers' houses @SweetWater Village, when they needed her help and assistance - whether to 'andam' (make up) the brides or to deliver new borns. 

However, I have not heard the word fortune teller from my Nyai, until I arrived in Myanmar and get to know about another type of gifted persons. In fact, in a country surrounded by many pagodas, it was a culture or a common tradition which is totally acceptable by the people that in almost every matter, they would consult a fortune teller or a seer.

I was very fortunate to meet some of these gifted persons during my stay in Yangon. Irrespective of their genders, the 'Seers' or the 'Fortune Tellers' main purpose was to tell the person who came to them (customer) about their future. In most cases, the results were favorable and the customers came out with happy faces. Sometimes, the 'Seers' also help to make decisions for the customers who were in crossroads. Other than that, they also helped to cure the sickly customers who came before them by citing some mantras, etc.

There was also an interesting event about gifted persons which I have come across in Yangon or I'd prefer to note it as a lesson to be learned event about seeing a fortune teller. The most important rule is that the customer must not only be alert but must be prepared for the consequences or result of seeing a seer! It is because in some cases the consequences can be very detrimental to them. 

In fact, there was a real story about a so-called loving  couple who met a fortune teller and upon coming out from the seer's residence, they got divorced! It was indeed a frightening experience yet it was also a reality in Yangon. What actually happened was in the seer's room, without the couple said anything to the seer, she could 'see through' deep into the mind and heart of the husband and therefore tell the wife who was actually her husband that she was married to. He was not what he portrayed to his wife as a loving couple and what nought. All were just sweet talk and flattery or just fascarde yet, the other side of him was evil - he betrayed his wife by having a mistress and the seer knew about this, and worst to come was that the seer knew the address and telephone number of the mistress :(

Well, the opportunity to meet some of the gifted persons in Yangon was also one of life time experiences to me. It was not only surprisingly memorable, but certainly an unforgettable experience which led me to have some thoughts of self reflections. Sometimes, we may feel that we can hide our secrets, emotions and many more from others, but these gifted persons could see-through us just like flipping our personal diaries. Except, we must remember that all the happenings which they saw and revealed to us were all with Allah SWT will and grace - who He wants to give the gifts. 

Honourable Visitors

"As a DS abroad, it's important to uphold our country's name. And, for us the Malaysian ladies, it is always safe to dress up in our national attire be it in Baju Kurung or Kebaya Labuh whenever we attend the official functions." These are the honorific words which were uttered to me by Her Honourable Tun Dr Siti Hasmah, wife of the Former Prime Minister of Malaysia Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad when I asked her for an advice which I could use and also relay to my DS country friends on a blissful morning @MyanmarStateHouse for Honourable State Visitors. 

Alhamdulilah, it was an honour and blissful to meet the former 'Malaysian First Lady' who followed her husband's State Visit to Myanmar. Indeed, both of them were the 'Honourable Visitors' whom I'm truly privileged to meet and humbly served, as part of my DS duties. It was also an unforgettable experience of a life time to be able to seat and eat on the same table with a public figure whom I truly admired and adored since my school days. 

But, apparently that visit was not the only one which I had the opportunity to meet and respectfully serve my Honourable Visitors, instead, the opportunity and privilege repeated several times during our posting days in London as well as during our stay in Muscat. Indeed, the two days opportunity which I had the privilege to accompany Tun Dr Siti Hasmah to all her functions in Muscat was truly memorable :)

Once again, Alhamdulilah, and all praises to Allah SWT who granted upon me the opportunity to be able to meet and serve our Honourable Visitors while they were still in office, as well as after they willingly stepped down as to give way to others. 

To both Tuns, my special prayers to you for good health and prosperity in life. Me, all Malaysians and Malaysia are proud to have you both as our leaders. May all your life, both here and the hereafter be protected and blessed by His Almighty Allah SWT. Amin.

Thursday Buddies

We (Thursday Buddies) opine:

We have one brain but we may develop our minds in the brain to set up several compartments - most important, important, less important and trash. These are unseen compartments which only we have the privilege to know, to remember or to forget :) 

We should not burden ourselves with unnecessary things, matters, issues and topics. Most of the time, we should forget and categorize them as trash. Hence, we will have clear minds. We prefer to leave whatever subjects to the professionals, the chauvinists and that persons are our better halves!

He He He ...

Reminiscing all those words, I strongly   believe that the unspoken motto has guided me and my beautiful minds's friends as the happy-go-lucky Thursday buddies in Yangon during my five years residency in Myanmar.

One of the many events which we did was to group together @Mr Gitar Lounge cum Restaurant in Junction 8. Indeed, this place kept lots of memories and stories of our hearts. We, not only frequented this cosy lounge with our families but more often we went there for Ladies' Nite 'meetings' as Thursday buddies - MSR + MM + MCS :) We loved listening to our song 'Woman in Love' and when our life partners were tagged along, we switched to 'Hotel California' ...

I believe the bond of sister-ship between us the Thursday Buddies who were born on Thursdays was indeed, thicker than blood for we - not only laughed and cried together, but also enjoyed the same hobby namely the love for clothing that eventually gave 'birth' to our fantasy turn reality - 3MFashionHouse based on our initials!

The bond grew stronger when all of us went for just ladies' excursion to Kalaw in north-east Myanmar one winter season. For a week, we stayed, ate and slept together. The differences in us - be it race, religion or nationality never once come in between us. Indeed, we respected each other and what truly united us was we were Thursday-born Buddies :)

To MM and MCS, thank you for your true friendship. Although we are no longer staying together, yet thoughts about you and the lively activities we did always stay in my mind. Most of the time, when I'm alone I'll hum silently the song we all love - Woman in Love :))