Kpop Song, A Dream Come True & Summer Love: KL! Episode 4!

2 years ago, I had a dream to produce 4 different genre songs and 4 accompanying MTVs.

It's cool how dreams work for that dream is realized this year through Summer Love: KL!.. something which I didn't quite expect for I've never put both the dreams (of song production & producing Summer Love: KL!) together when I was dreaming bout them!

While in the end, we only managed 3 songs, but they are still special. Especially so for this song.. "Me & You".


I still remember clearly that I wrote the lyrics for this song while in Bangkok earlier this year - in the Terminal mall to be exact. And then continuing it while at Bug & Bee Cafe.

It took me a bit of digging in of some sweet memories to get the lyrics out.. And so the song lyrics - like the other 2 songs, are personal too. Looking back, some of the words are rather commonly used by me!! Haha

But there's more to this song than just the lyrics.. well, it's the 1st lyrics for a song that I've ever written.. and it's for a kpop inspired song! Like wow!

Add that with a dance crew performing in the MTV, you get a very satisfied and happy QuaChee!! :D


*Me & You is the 2nd song featured in the Summer Love: KL! series. It's composed by Ben CMX. The dance crew is from Sole To Soul Dance Studio - the studio that I learn dancing from!!

If Only I'm In Primary School!!

Sometimes I wish I'm back during school days - that is during Primary school.

Not High School or Uni.. but Primary school. Because back then, as 'kids' we could get back to our friends who offended us, with very lil bit of punishment.

You see, in primary school, we could get away with nearly everything - for most of the times, adults still treated us as KIDS.. kids who can never do much wrong. Heard the statements "Oh, they are just kids.."?

Well, yeah, you get it. So being a kid in primary school is really cool.

One of the reasons would definitely be - that we can get back to friends who offended us.

The most, should the teacher finds out, we either get a rotan (cane) or sometimes just a warning from the usually-lovable teachers.



Yeah, back then, the puppy eyes (or Puss in Boots pussy eyes) would really work.. In fact, some friends went as far as to cry when they are to be punished (tho they are wrong). Now, those friends should get an Oscar, really.

Anyway, that is why I love the primary years. Come secondary, though we still wear school uniforms, but we are SUPPOSED to be turning into adults, and the teachers get stricter. We can still fight back, but that can cause trouble like detention classes and being blacklisted by the teachers.

And then moving onwards to uni, it's even worse. Fighting is so off limits, no matter how well our kung fu/ karate/ taekwando is. It doesn't matter whatever belt colour we wear cos when it comes to the REAL thing, we should just let it go, and not even try to be Bruce Lee, or even close to it.

That's a pity cos usually by then, if one had learnt those martial arts, they would be having the best coloured belts.

But the thing is, I think as I grow older, I find more people who seem to irritate.. it's funny cos as kids we are thought to be obedient and all. But then as we get into the workforce, somehow SOME people seem to have forgotten what their teachers taught them.

Anyway, when in these situations - I get into a dilemma. I mean, given my way - I feel like ______. But then that's really wrong. So what can I do?

I still haven't figured this out. So far, I've been telling the nicest way possible.. or at most, a rather neutral way. But that still tests my patience.

I am thinking that maybe the next time, I should do a Bush face like the one below.

Yeah, in this case - he can't get mad. I mean, I'm still SMILING right?

Well, if that don't work.. maybe I'll try this, as suggested by my friend instead. She suggested I say "Bless you" whenever the such people offends - where the actual meaning behind it mean ......... (go figure).

And who knows, this might just work.

Owh, really... if only I'm in Primary school!!

Merry Early Christmas!

I've mentioned before that I'm currently learning piano. And just a few days back was my 2nd lesson!

Okay, I'm gonna say this again.. I'm still awed by the fact that I'm able to learn (and play.. ehem ehem) the piano! Oh yeah!

Btw, in this 2nd lesson, I have learnt to play the piano with 2 hands - whoooa!..!! Oh and the song - Jingle Bells! How appropriate since I love the Christmas season much!

Christmas, sure comes early this year!! :)



Btw, video edited with Final Cut Pro - thought I'd combine both skills into 1 :)

I'm On A (3 Weeks) Break!

Okay, so while I write this, I'm already in my very first week of my break. And I'm sooooo enjoying it!

But first let me say that I know that I'm (sooo...) lucky!! Well, especially so in Malaysian context.. Like, how many working people actually get to go for such a break, huh? This ain't Australia, right? (On a side note, no wonder so many Malaysians wanna migrate to Australia!).

So what have I been doing so far? Enjoying life that is, and enjoying the moments!

One of them - sleeping in! And doing nothing except exercising the eyes. Yeah, like staying in bed & watching one of my favourite (adult) cartoons - American Dad!

The other thing that I've been having fun with is swimming at the pool with this beautiful view of the twin towers!

Got this G Tower Hotel gym membership from one of those discount voucher sites (Groupon if not mistaken), and I must say this 1 month 'trial' is really a pleasure - not so much for the gym per say, but the pool!

Taking my time to think of what nice to eat (and not just eat anywhere cos it's convenient) - that's another thing that I've been doing. Like this lunch today - one of the best (if not the best) fish head beehoon that I've ever eaten (@ Soon Soon Pan Mee & Fish Head, Damansara Perdana).

This is the old logo. Stay tuned for a 'revised' version :)

And oh yeah, working on my passion/ interests & dreams..!! Yeap, Summer Love the webseries is now revived (finally!). Lots happening behind the scene now (ie planning & meetings!), and that kinda fills my hands apart from the other leisurely stuff.

Oh, there's more. I'm also digitalising all my CDs - copying them into the computer. Done a bit the other day, but there's so much more (like really a lot more!) to go! Realised I have some unopened ones (ooops!).

So happens that the Travel fanpage (Travel Khaki) I'm doing also features Taipei. Haha!

Last but not least, planning for my holiday. And err.. after thinking through, I'm going to one of my top 3 favourite cities.. Taipei! Oh yeah!

I can't wait (that's happening towards the end of the 3 weeks). But wait, let me enjoy the other moments too! Ah.... life. How I wish this won't end.. Hahaha! :)

Finally, I Can Play The Piano!

Oh yeah, I can play the piano! See the video below to believe me! Haha!

 

 This video is actually taken on my 1st day of piano lesson yesterday! It's such a raw start I know.. but what a happy feeling!

 This has been something that I've wanted to learn for such a long time now.. something I feel 'handicapped' for not learning it while much younger in my teens. We didn't come from a music based family :(

 Even in my early working life, I didn't learn the piano - I was too busy with business at that time to have any of such 'learning' hobbies.

 But now - that seems just like the right time.. yeah, the desire to learn is so strong that I have found time for it now! For I want to be able to compose some songs - commercially, if possible. And get a better sense of music.

These is all part of my interests in the media, which of course, I hope to get into more. And so for the start, this is my first baby step on piano learning... which adds on to me learning dancing & Mandarin :)

A Lil Random: The Lil Happy Moments (For A Heavy Week)

Busy & challenging. That's the week so far.. both on work & also on the productions. Am planning to do some short videos/ film for a competition :)

However, as heavy it is, the week seems not too bad after all.. Well, Hooray to the lil joys in life.. & the pictures remembering the moments! :)

This is Milo dinosaur.. a drink I had after a rather heavy telephone call with someone who I think is somewhat misguided, selfish & rather rude. Anyway, that aside, this hearty drink did the magic - cooling me down. 

Have u tried this drink? I was surprised that some of my Kay El/ Pea Jay friends didn't know bout it. It really is a must try! :)

This was my lunch on Tuesday. I was at this area called Taman Gembira. Now, interestingly, this place is not to be mistaken as its translation Happy Gardens, which is actually the area opposite it. 

Btw, I like the area here - the road names & also the shop names are all very Smurf like.. like Happy Coffeeshop, Jalan Sukacita, Jalan Selesa etc etc. Soothing names - especially for the city!

Btw, yeah, I was happy (gembira!) having this pork rib noodles at a restaurant there :)

This is a stamp from an wedding invitation card I received. It's from my friends who are gonna get married - like next week! 

While I've seen this (the self photo made into stamp) around for quite a while now, but it's nice to receive it from someone I know. I guess it's also my 1st stamp of such :)

On Wednesday, while in between meetings, I decided to go try this Chatime.. and see what's the hype all about. I was recommended the red bean with pearls. Now, I know what's with the long queue. The tea was yummy, and the pearls were too - the right munchy feeling when chewing. 

I guess I'll be a fan - well, till the pearl milk tea bubble explodes, just like it did 10 years ago. Haha!

Oh, and on Wednesday - I tried some cooking too! It has been ages sinced I really cooked.. used to do it more often during my uni days. Ahh, the memories! Anyway, I had this not for breakfast, but dinner! 

And I'd like to caption this photo as - "best things come in pairs!" :) 2 sunny side ups - the way I like eggs cooked, the huge juicy portobello mushrooms, and fresh homemade sausages!

Well, I guess in between all the heavy stuff for the week, I did manage to squeeze some happy moments.. and like most cases, it always brings joy looking back. 

The week is still a fair bit more to go.. and I just hope to create more happy moments - big or small! May you too! :)

Turning 30 & Looking Back

Age is just a number. So the saying says.

Well, I've just touched that number recently.

And I can't help but do a reflection of my life - more so of what I've done the past decade after college. I know I did a semi reflection post a while back (This Time, Last Years... And This Time, This Year).. but well, I can't help but to do a more thorough one... one that highlights the highs of the past few years..

PS: Not wanting to boast here, but really just a reflection :)

So, here are some mini achievements (jeng, jeng, jeng... hahaha):

1. Appearing in full page newspaper ad!

Ok, I must say I am so proud of this... I couldn't help smiling when I saw my pic on the papers. This happened on the MRT. Someone was reading the papers, and then when he flipped the pages, I saw a 'familiar' face. I wasn't sure at first.. but then it became clear...


I was on the newspaper! Full Page! Woohoo!


And so, like a lil boy, I went on to buy a few copies and gave them to my family members!!! Hahaha.


2. Appearing on the bus & MRT - Singapore & China too!

I did clinch a few more modeling jobs in Singapore - with the Pizza Hut ad appearing on the MRTs & busses in the city. Pity I didn't see those - but my friends did SMS me with words like
"Hey, I'm seeing you here on the train/ bus".

Oh and the ad I did for HP - that apparently went exclusively to China! Oooooo!

3. Publishing 2 Dream Books & Meeting The PM!

Remember the moment when Pak Lah won with a big majority? And he 'was at a all-time-high'? Well, it was around then too that I met him.

I must say I was touched that he came to my booth - a simple set up at the KL Batik Convention/ Exhibition.. Meeting Pak Lah then was more sweet because some of the people around him were actually blocking his view to my booth (that's another story), but yet he came by! DOUBLE WIN!!! Hahaha!!!

4. Getting Forewords by Ministers!

In 2007, I wrote an updated version of the book - and lucky me, I actually got some Malaysian leaders to write forewords for this book... including the then Tourism Minister, Tengku Adnan & also the then Minister of Culture Dr Rais Yatim.

Oh do I know them personally? Or have friends who know them? Errr.... no, I don't... and so getting those forewords were really sweet.

5. Producing a Webseries!


I've always been keen on going into productions (I still am!).. and in 2008, I had the opportunity to produce one.

The most memorable part about this?
Well working with actor Kenny Chan who is an actor whose shows I watched when I was a kid!




6. Getting Featured on Magazines! (& Newspapers)!

Ok, I love being featured (ehem, ehem).. So of course, I'm happy to be featured in a few newspapers & magazines both in Malaysia & Singapore, English, Chinese & Malay.. for the works that I've done! :)

The very first article that I've been featured on...! (I still have the original copy hehehe)!

7. Being Men's Health Finalist & Category Winner!

I joined the Men's Health competition in Singapore - had a good time, took some very cool photos, made some very cool friends... and won a prize as well! 

Oh, and apart from being featured on some outdoor ads, they even featured me in the papers for the win! :)

8. GoneTo Germany!

One thing I enjoyed a lot the past decade is the many travels I had..both for business & leisure. I've traveled to fair bit of places in Asia. For a while it seems that I would not be able to travel out of the continent (minus Australia that is).. but then came Frankfurt, Germany for the International Book Fair!

And that is the furtherst I've traveled so far! :)

9. Interviewing Celebrities (& Working With Some)!

Interviewed Jaclyn Victor in Singapore!

Some of my projects like the 50+1 Malaysia book saw me interviewing a list of Malaysian personalities & celebrities... and that was a good awesome feeling. Mainly so cos some of them were really inspiring - and yet very humble too! (of course, there are the negative & big headed ones... but hey, let's look at the bright side here :) ).


10. Started & Sold A Business!

This is the more serious side of me.. the book distribution business which I founded in Kay El has been sold after 1.5 years of hardwork. I'm proud of this as it goes to show that if you do something well enough - it can have value.. and provides a good exit strategy for the entrepreneur!

11. Organising An Online Reality Show!

While this is one of the projects that sure gave a big challenge, but hey, I can proudly say that I actually did an online reality show - Web 2.0 style.. Project O&O!

Memories here? Prema Yin singing the theme song - Fight, judges coming for the event finale.. and simply being part of 'history'! :)



Now, while I listed 11 happy moments/ accomplishments, but there are many more happy things that I've achieved in my 30 years of life - especially those small ones too.

I had a pretty happy 30 years. Life really has been good so far. 

But of course, there are many things which I wished I had done as well. However, I'm not regretting.

Instead, I know I have more to achieve in the coming years. There are way many others out there who achieved far greater stuffs than me before hitting 30. I still find myself a lil behind, but catch up is on the way!

Owh, I can't wait to go ahead & accomplish more things & dreams this coming decade!!! Stay tuned - and may you continue to share this journey of mine! Hehehe :)

This Time, Last Years.. And This Time, This Year

I chanced upon this blog post, and got inspired by it: This time, last year, everything was different. It's the story bout the blogger (SassyGirl) and how life changed for her the past 5 years.

Now, let me see mine. But let me extend mine to a few years more.

This time, last year, I was having an office in Pea Jay, managing a book distribution & sales company of 6 staffs. I was planning our strategies, joining events, doing sales and also managing the office. Work aside, I was enjoying my new freedom in Kay El/ Pea Jay going to some very cool & chic places around the Klang Valley (think Sky Bar).

This time 2 years ago, I was in the midsts of planning for my 1st webseries The Big Bibik & The Little Nyonyas - traveling a lil back to Malacca while still based in Singapore. It was also the time I was in the process of making a decision of relocating to Kay El, and coming to Kay El to look for a place to live.

This time 3 years ago, I was busy writing & planning the 50+1 Malaysia book. I was managing my freelance team of writers, designer.. and compiling photos from Flickr. Yeah, at that time Flickr kinda ruled momentarily, before the full emergence of Facebook took over a lil later. I was also having a fair bit of travels by this year.

This time 4 years ago, I just published the 2nd edition of Batik Inspirations. I was starting to travel crazy. The holidays were fun yet at the same time 'efficient'. I remember making those important phone calls & sending those emails to the Ministers - right while holidaying from China.

This time 5 years ago, I was traveling nearly every other week to Kay El from Singapore for business. I have just published the first book, and was busy finding all angles to get sales. It was also the time I first started blogging and learning how to go about with online business.

This time 6 years ago, I enrolled in a motivation course. It was this course that started to make me vision for my first dream project (my first book). This course was the one that opened my eyes - showing me that Dreams Do Come True. Also, through the course, I have met a new group of friends, some of whom are good friends till today. My job at that time - selling insurance & property all & around the island city of Singapore from day to night.

This time 7 years ago, I just graduated from a university in Singapore.. a university I spent 3 years in. And one that I'm glad to be out.

And now, this time this year, I just completed Project O&O - a reality online search for Malaysia's Youth Ambassador.. which I was the Project Leader. Not a dream dream project, but still, something I'm proud to have under my cap.

This time, this year, I'm currently under employment again - in the Social Media industry.. learning the works of the industry, sales & the business flow.

This time this year, I'm working on my 2nd productions, Summer Love.

This time, this year, I'm enrolling for Mandarin class. I'm also planning to enroll in more other classes of my interests that I've put off for a long time.

This time, this year, I am planning to take more baby steps into my bigger passion & dreams.

This time, this year, I am happily in love.

Looking back, I've lived a rather eventful life so far. How will my next few years be? I wonder too.

But one thing is for sure - I hope to move forward in all areas in my life. Grow as a person in every angle. Walk towards my dreams (and achieve some along the way).

And continue to live life - full.

Remembering My 1st Day Of Work

Do you remember your first day of work? Or first day of school in the beginning of the year?

I don't but this time round, I will. Cos I'm blogging bout it here Hehe... Well, that's what blogs are for anyway right? :)

I smiled as I saw my loose change, when paying the carpark.

So it was my 1st day.. and I was in some ways scared. Not scared of the work ahead or the company I'm gonna join nor what to expect from my new colleagues. 

But I was afraid of the jam that might be ahead. I must say so far I've been rather blessed as I've never gone on peak hours... but this job requires me to be in by 9am. And it's at the other city - Kay El. I know it ain't that far from Pea Jay, but still... 

So I woke up slightly earlier (okay, I admit much earlier than my usual time). And was ready for.. WAR. 

But guess what? Traffic to the office was... nearly as smooth as butter!!! I'm so impressed.. And of coz thankful for the 2 paying tolls I had to go through. But hey, it's better than being stucked in the jam :)

And then I arrived. And had my breakfast at the now synonym to Malaysia kopitiam - Old Town. And guess what? The eggs above - they are my 2nd helping. I had to order a set as it's cheaper even though I... err... actually had eggs just before I left home. Yeah, I was egg-ified (in a good way)! Haha!

Work was pretty easy going on the 1st day. Like a colleague mentioned... it's the honeymoon period. I was introduced to all the colleagues in the office - remembering only a handful of their names. But they all seem nice. 

And as it's the 1st day, work was light. I was given this book to read. And I read it in one sitting while in the office. I must say I've never read so much so fast.. for a long long time, or ever! 

I was given my brief on my jobscope, and we did some planning as well. Time was a lil slow.. but still I made the best of it. Soon, it was evening, and time to clock out. 

On the way back, I saw this beautiful sunset. And I just say to myself - on what a lovely (first) day it is. 

And then came dinner.. and I went to try out this famoust Middle Eastern restaurant - Tarbush. That put quite a nice ending to the 1st day.. and hopefully to a start of many happy days ahead :)

Taking A Break & Getting That Dream Job

6 years as an Entrepreneur. 

A fair bit of projects. 

Batik Inspirations, 50+1 Malaysia, Booqc.com, The BIG Bibik & The Little Nyonyas, Project O&O.

Countless roles. 

Office Boy to Sales. Marketing, to PR then to HR Manager. And more.

And now, 

I've decided to take a break. 

Not from fun projects 

or projects that I'm passionate about.

Those, I'll still do.

There's still Summer Love the series.

And other business plans.

But for now, 

it's a break from the main job. 

Time to recharge.

To learn more.

And (hopefully) worry less.

Hence, the search for the Dream Job. 

A job that I'm passionate about.

A job that I can learn (much) more.

A job that allows me to grow.

A job that allows me to still achieve my other dreams.

And I think I've found it.

25 Things About Me

Ok, I'm on a 'meme' run.... well, at least for the past post & this.

I've been tagged to do this from friends via facebook, for a while now. Well here goes:

1. I've went to 2 kindergartens - one year in Chinese, and one more year in English.

2. That was my first touch of Mandarin, though I only related to it again much later in Form 6, when my classmates from the Chinese speaking schools came over to study in my school - Malacca High School (am proud of it!).

3. I learnt English & Malay as my main language - our school was English speaking (I always compare it to the Raffles school in Singapore!). Anyway, I had a good mix of friends from other races, which I think is so important, especially coming from such a diverse country.

4. In Form 1 (Secondary 1), I sat with a group of Malay friends. They introduced me to Malay music & Malay movies. And I'm glad I had that experience, cos from then & till today, I'm open to what rocks in Malaysia's entertainment industry.

5. My exposure to Chinese pop came in university when in Singapore. That was also the time J pop was at its peak - remember Utada Hikaru's First Love?

6. My Mandarin picked up when I'm in Singapore, though I still speak with an accent and my vocab not very strong. Well, I'm learning still, and hope to learn further... and appreciate those who support.

7. I believe one should be Malaysian first, race second. It's the same when we are overseas - if we are in USA, we are American first, and where we come from 2nd.

8. I love Malaysia... for it's my country I was raised. I think it's so beautiful, something I realised more so after doing the 50+1 Malaysia book. And we can be proud to be Malaysians for all we achieved. However, if we can improve further, there's so much more to love this country - and we need this.

9. I always believe leaders should have a clear & good vision, and to see it through. This applies globally and to Malaysia.

10. I love Thailand, the Thais, and all things Thai. It's one country where people are so accomodating. The other nice people & places are in Bali & also from Java.

11. I admire & have lots of respect for humble people, whether they are super rich, or in a very high positions. That is what I call 'class'!

12. I believe in dreams coming true - something which is tested and tried over time. I've got a few dreams realised - and I'm working on more.

13. At times, it seems tough and challenging... and it is those periods that I need a break, and refocus back on my goals and realign my strategies. Supporting family members & friends help.

14. One of my dreams is to work with famous celebrities - both in film & music. You can say that I'm very interested in productions.

15. I would like to work with industry players from Korea, Hollywood, HK & also Bollywood for movies, Japan for anime, and Taiwan for music. But I also hope to bring Asean's music & movies across - from the likes of Malaysia to Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia (I think there's many talented people in these nations!).

16. I am very interested in new creations, or creating new things. I enjoy seeing my ideas come to reality. There is lots of joy whenever I see my new booksn in print, and I'm looking forward to my movies soon!

17. I love traveling a lot!

18. I love both city and kampung life - though of late, I begin to enjoy the serenity of the villlages more.

19. I have strong opinions, though I'm open to new ideas. I believe successful businessmen must have this trait to succeed.

20. I find swimming relaxing to the mind. Sometimes I get new ideas & confidence when swimming.

21. I gym to remain fit. It's tough at times to bring myself to the gym, but when I go, the workout always feels good.

22. I love inspiring movies, especially those with a happy ending and somewhat surreal. I believe movies are meant to entertain, and bring some fantasy & joy to one's life.

23. My dream house is a mansion by the beach, with infinity swimming pool, and a bedroom overlooking the sea (the sand will be fine white).

24. I love spicy food. I can't go for more than 3 days without chillies.

25. I believe life is a journey, and one should appreciate and enjoy it as much as possible.


Wow, to write 25 things isn't easy - and I thought writing bout oneself is the easiest! Haha!

Btw, if you really read all 25 points, thank you! :)


I'm tagging fellow blogger khakis - Happysurfer, Amir Fuad, Foongpc, Haan, Reanaclaire, Robo, Stormwhistle, Mei Teng, JL, Tekkaus, Khengsiong, RW Fine Art, Day-dreamer, Bengbeng, Adila, Faisal Admar.

Malaysia Book Update 21: More Reviews

I've been wanting to update this for a while, and I think now is a good time to share the other reviews we've gotten from the press.

I'm quite glad cos some magazines like KLue who has reviewed us for the Batik Inspirations book continues with positive review on the 50+1 Malaysia book.

And then there is 3 new press reviews - The Finder, CLEO and even Singapore's Today newspaper. The Singapore Today paper is the first review we have in Singapore for the 50+1 Malaysia book (hope more to come!) :)

Here are some of their highlights:

“Useful for newcomers to the region” Today Singapore.

“Trust us, you’ll find it un-put-down-able!” CLEO.

“There’s also the photography - lush, vivid and filled with life, it’s reason enough to give the book a read” KLue.

“This handy resource is a great eye-opener to all Malaysia has to offer” The Finder.

Woooaa.... what can I say, but that I'm very happy :)


Btw, here are the reviews in full:


KLue: 50+1 Reasons To Read

Local entrepreneur, writer and publisher QuaChee first came to our attention with his coffee table book, Batik Inspirations. While that publication focused on top batik designers and their creations, his latest book 50+1 Malaysia deals with something we’re all familiar with—our country and its many different facets and quirks.

The book is divided into seven different segments and serves as sort of a travel guide and introduction to readers curious to learn more about Malaysian culture. One of the segments is called “50+1 Truly Malaysian: Confirm Malaysia One” which attempts to break down our complicated Manglish language system into a form that makes it easy to understand for the confused foreigner.

There’s also a segment called “50+1 Malaysians: Now That’s What I Call Talent!” which highlights homegrown names like Datuk Michelle Yeoh, Mawi, Fish Leong, Nicholas Teo and even our Angkasawan, Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar. And what’s a book on Malaysia without a segment on food? “50+1 Food: Very Sedap One” lists our culinary heritage. QuaChee is quite certain that even true blue Malaysians will discover a new dish on that list. And there’s also the photography—lush, vivid and filled with life, it’s reason enough to give the book a read. Check out www.themalaysiapage.com to purchase a copy.

The Finder: REVEALING READ

Written by a team of proud Malaysians, 50+1 Malaysia - a compact entertainment-travel guidebook-features 51 must -do’s in seven sections: cultures & traditions, food, must see, how to explore, festivals and celebrations, home-grown talent, plus dedications from local and international fans. This handy resource is a great opener to all Malaysia has to offer. From Manglish explanations to hunting down the best Peranakan cuisine and how to spot a tapir in the wild, 50+1Malaysia also offers great tips for exploring the peninsula and beyond. Rm 19.90, www.themalaysiapage.com.

CLEO: TRULY MALAYSIA

How much do you know about your country? Don’t know enough? Then get a copy of 50 + 1 Malaysia, a must have pocket sized handbook on all things Malaysian! Trust us, you’ll find it un-put-down-able! Retailing at Rm 19.90, buy it at http://themalaysiapage.com.

TODAY (SINGAPORE): LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR

50+1 Malaysia. $9.80.

Useful for newcomers to the region, this pocket size manual lists information such as the lingo - use of the word alamak, kao tim, etc - food, places to explore and home-grown talents. Those familiar with Malaysia will find a few new nuggets of information. Who knew that the first instalment of reality show Survivor was filmed on the resort island of the Pulau Tiga Resort Sabah? The presentation of the book, however is marred by the small pictures and the lack of page numbers.

*Our other reviews:

Review: The Star

Review: Sin Chew & The Edge Financial Daily

Review: Galaxie

Korean Drama & Me

In my review of the Korean Drama: On Air, I actually mentioned the reason I purchased it was because of the storyline... which I feel relates a lot to my current works.

First allow me to explain my current works.

It has been a while now that I have this hope of producing a movie/ film/ drama... especially since after the first book project, Batik Inspirations. However, I've never had the chance to act on it till now.

So, recently I've been learning more about productions and all that is related... and am now kind of ready to embark on the new project - to do webisodes (online drama).

How Does On Air Relate
Watching the series On Air, I can relate to the 4 characters in it.

1. Scriptwriter
I can understand the scriptwriter who threads between creativity and commercialism. Like in the series, many times, the scriptwriter will tend to stick to a certain cliche formula which has been a hit style. However, this can be quite noticeable after a while.

In this series, she eventually relented and gave in... but with a huge risk.

How this relates to my work - well, I plan to co-work with the scriptwriter for this project... as I do have something in mind already and a certain style that I vision. I just hope our ideas are in line :)

2. Director
The director plays an important role in bringing the idea of the scriptwriter to 'live'... plus knowing how to bring the best out of the actors & actresses.

In this series, the director actually played a bigger role - first in ensuring he could get the winning scriptwriter on board... and then getting the scriptwriter to do the unthinkable - ie away from her works.

How this relates to my work - though I won't be directing this drama series, but there are the certain visuals which I hope the director & myself can work together on. And maybe in the future, I'll be a director myself as well :)

3. Actor/ Actress
Here is where the beautiful & award winning actress Kim Ha Neul, played the role of an actress.

Actors & actresses all want a big break - some can act, but most often than not, many have a good face (& figure) to make it big in the industry. And once big, they then have this worry of keeping on the top, wanting their privacy, and some even to lead a 'normal' life. This is actually the hardest part of an actor after the struggle for the big break.

And it is here that we hear lots of scary diva stories - because these actors/ actresses are so afraid, that they just want everything perfect... to give them the smoothest ride and continue their popularity and demand.

How this relates to my work - I've been wanting to play a bigger role in acting. So far, my roles have been rather minor and uninteresting. But hopefully in this webisode, I'll get to show some acting skills and maybe a small break :)

4. Agent
In this series, it showed how a star agent 'grooms' star actors & actresses. First it was selling an image to the world (eg decent cute girl look, girl next door look)... and later on to continue to manage her as a 'star', and making sure the 'star' continues to shine (eg change the look to more than just the girl next door... maybe take on more challenging roles).

How this relates to my work - I can understand how stars are made. It does seem scary to be 'controlled' & 'moulded' - to someone who we may not be. Though it would be nice to be 'groomed to be a star', but for me, I think, it's better if we have achieved something our way - and still be a big star.


I hope these sharing is a good insight to the productions world, and a bit of insights of my current works & thoughts :)

Early Christmas

Christmas tree in the works

Walk around the malls, and we can see the Christmas decorations come popping up. It is a reminder that Christmas is coming.

In fact in the news, there are reports that Christmas is early this year, where retailers are going all out to woo their customers earlier - before the dark economic crises sinks further.


Well, I'm also having an early Christmas... but of a different kind.

These are not Christmas decorations... but instead the fillers to fill up the space in between the boxes.

I learnt about having these plastic fillers but can't remember their name. And was actually searching a bit on where to get them. This was really my first time doing such (because of the different packaging requested).

Some search and I eventually bought them at the local post office!


Putting these fillers makes me think of snow white Christmas - but instead of what some may use these to make artificial snow, I'm filling up boxes instead haha!

But that's good news, as I'm proud that we are getting reorders for my first book, Batik Inspirations... To make this doubly sweet, this is from Indonesia some more!

Hooray to the early Christmas! :)

It's Like Going Bananas

I've mentioned this briefly once when doing the 50+1 Malaysia book. And I'm mentioning it here again. The reason simply because I'm into a new project.

Whenever an idea is conceived, I usually feel good about it. Have you experienced it before? The feeling of excitement that the idea will turn reality with a super outcome (like how we want it to be) and even envisioning a smooth ride!

Not Cloud 9
But then, when I really get down to 'grind' the idea proper, the first problems arise. Sometimes, some ideas then turn out to be just so-so, and it maybe abandoned. Other times, they are workable, and more 'grinding' is needed to make the first step of it turn reality.

Currently...
Well, now that I'm on a new project, the same thing arise. This has been vetted (by other parties), meaning it is a workable idea. And the green button is already on.

However, despite that, I didn't jump in. This whole thing seem really too new to me and really very overwhelming.

So my first step is to get more insights on the industry by attending a few courses and events which I think are related.

And the outcome - there is hope (it seems funny having to mention this), though I really got quite scared out of the reality as well. In fact, it made me quite confused at times too!


Talking To Others
Despite attending the courses, but that doesn't complete the thought process as they were merely insights (things to do, the step-by-step guide, what others have done, etc)... while the idea of this project remains at its infancy.

So, the next thing I've been doing is to link up with industry players a bit... and in fact, even to the non industry players. These gives a more rounded approach - where while industry players will give even more insights, however, the nons are the ones with usually a good twist, many times looking from a different perspective.

Talking to these people have helped a fair bit in my progress. After some round of discussions, the idea seems to 'fall in place' now.

So, what's the outcome?
It's been nearly a month now that I'm on this (seriously, 1 month of research can get tiring & make one go bananas!)... and yet despite all that, I can't say that I'm ready to roll out the idea as yet. It still needs a fair bit of 'twitching'.

Whatever it is, I'm keeping a positive mindset on this. There has been advancement in the past 1 month... and let's hope for something good to comes out. Wish me luck! :)

*The bananas pic was taken in Orchard Road!

Seeing It Differently

This conversation is inspired by a discussion with a blogger friend which brought back some memories.

Some of you would know that I'm half the time based in Lion City, Singapore, while the other half the time in my beloved country, Malaysia.

The Singapore Dream
When I first came to Singapore years back, it was out of 'living the Singapore Dream' (I like to also call it the Nanyang Dream). Just like people going to USA for the American Dream, I, like many of my peers went over to Singapore to further our education.

Now, it's not that Malaysia didn't offer us the courses we wanted or the universities we applied. But it was an opportunity to see another country (though it's just a causeway away and border to neighbouring Malaysia), be in a different system, and to open up the opportunities.

You know the modern & clean city image Singapore portrays really enticed me. Prior to that, I've always admired the city state during my holiday trips there. I mean, close as we are, it is quite a different city/ country altogether. And just by being different, it gives space for admiration.

A Different Singapore
But lo & behold, settling down there initially was a big difference. Gone were the images of the cool & admirable nation I had. Instead, it was an image of kiasu, rude and even fake encounters. And with the back of the mind that "Malaysia's food so much better".

Even whenever I was brought to see the good things the country offered, I had in the back of my mind "Malaysia also got mah.. in fact, bigger". This got to a point where some closer Singaporean friends commented "Why are you so against here?".

These thoughts may have been started because the image portrayed was quite different from the living experience. Being no more a tourist, I was seeing the 'real Singapore' that are not in the tourist brochures.

And this thought of "Malaysia better", "my country's better" etc went on for years. And to make things worse, I have had some other Malaysian friends who shared the same sentiments. And negative with negative, don't make a positive here. In fact, it just makes it far worse.

'A Paradigm Shift'
Then one day, something changed my mind. I somehow decided that if I had to stay in Singapore (like many students we have to fulfill the bond), well, I better make it a good one.

And the one way to make it good is to first, have a clear mind - on neutral ground about the country. It would definitely be difficult to start off positively but neutral ground seems perfect. And that means 'throwing' the old negative mindset.

That was like an overnight decision. And in fact, the results came quite overnight as well. From there onwards, though I still do encounter some unpleasant people, but I now have seen a better side of the people & the city. The encounters with fellow Singaporeans have been more positive then before.

From 'Don't Quite Like' to 'Not Bad' and now 'Hey, It's Good!'.
And with the change of mindset, I can now fully appreciate what the country is doing - on the international platform and at the same time for its people... like the F1, the integrated resorts, the Singapore Flyer, revamp of Orchared Road, the Esplanade & the opening up of the Entertainment/ Arts industry, CPF, etc... So much so that there are times when I'm more positive about the country than my fellow Singaporean friends (and the occasional expats/ foreigners).

Business wise, this has helped me as well - in terms of working with associates to having a rather affluent market, and even with Singapore as a good business platform (Singapore is ranked no. 1 for ease of doing business for small business).

It's The Mindset
In conclusion, what I'm actually trying to share is that the opening of mindset is crucial in our everyday lives. I've taken my experience in living in Singapore as a way of how the change of mindset can bring positive results.

And now, I'm back at seeing Singapore as it once was through my eyes.

*I continuously still need to apply this positive outlook in work, business and even in my trips to overseas. But, it really helps having this in the back of my mind.

Malaysia Book Update 17: More Press Reviews

I've mentioned that getting reviews are a blessing.

Well, in the month of August, just when the book is out, we've had 3 main reviews.



Actually, the first review was in The Edge Financial Daily (by Grace Chin). The journalist actually called me up to have an interview while I was in Jakarta. Of course, it was a pleasant call, and she handled the interview well.

In fact, the questions she asked took some deep thinking & reflection. It was good questions posed to find answers on the company's vision.

I still remember she asking me "Why call yourself a Dreamer Entrepreneur?"... Well because not all entrepreneurs are dreamers.. and who continue to work on the goals, despite all the challenges faced. I remember also saying that many would just quit especially being in this 'difficult' industry - mentioned even by the local industry players.

But I see a potential in it. And I know that globally it's huge. That's why I carry on... continue working on this 'hard dream'.


Then next up was The Star interview by Kee Hua Chee. This went pretty easy and I need not explain much. And as I mentioned before, I really salute The Star for being so supportive of Malaysian works!

Another relatively easy interview was done by Lam Yuet, Sin Chew. This appeared in the Merdeka Special segment, on yes, Merdeka Day! How nice :)



Though I like talking about my works in interviews, but simple interviews are also nice... for if I can humbly put it, the works speaks for itself. :)

To all 3 journalists and the press, many thanks for recognising this work of ours. It gives much encouragement to continue with my works, works for the nation, & to pursue this dream to succeed in the book industry :)

Malaysia Book Update 16: The Star Review

Photo that appeared in the review

Our first few reviews for the 50+1 Malaysia book are out in the press. And one of them is featured in Malaysia's very own leading English daily, The Star's Weekender (issue 30 August 2008).

How timely it was for Merdeka... and a pleasant surprise for me. I was on the plane reading the main section of the papers (the Nation segment) when my friend showed me the review page.

It's quite nice to get review by the press. This already is like a small pat on the back... and a double pat when the reviewer finds it good.

I'm glad the reviewer, Kee Hua Chee, find the book interesting enough (whew!).

An excerpt:
A Cute Swing-about
A cute, nifty, handbag-friendly new book has hit the market in time for our 51st Merdeka. Smartly called 50+1.Malaysia, the book is an ode to the nation...

The book is perfect as a present for foreign friends or Malaysian students who have stayed away too long.

Full review here.

Truly, it made my day... and one thing on the review that made me think a lil is this sentence:
"Well, this is Quachee’s party..."

Never had I thought it's my party, but now that the writer wrote it, I guess it is in a way... as the book do come a fair bit from my direction.

In fact, all the while during the compilation of the book, I felt happy - this was even pointed out by some contributors. So, I think it's quite cool to link it to a party :)

Thanks, Hua Chee & The Star! Really I'm glad to be reviewed by The Star once again (the first from my previous book). To The Star, you truly are The People's Paper, supporting many Malaysian works! :)


*There is also a review on 50+1 Malaysia by The Edge Daily & Sin Chew (Merdeka issue). Will share on these soon.

*BookmarQC is actually my company's new project (in the process). And QC here actually represents my company Q.Ce :)

My First University Talk

Students taking a glimpse of the 50+1 Malaysia book after the talk.

This was done today morning in UiTM. I was invited to give a speech to the students from the tourism faculty, with the talk title: Why, What & How To Promote Malaysia.

It was nice to be able to share my experience on the potentials I see in tourism in Malaysia. This I believe can only be shared after seeing & visiting other countries... for it is only when we see what other countries have to offer, we realise our very own unique points.

Though I've done a few other talks on Batik Malaysia & the art of batik, however, this is still a first for me, as it is a wider topic - tourism. And it's my first talk in line with the 50+1 Malaysia book, plus it being held in a university.

After the talk, I was invited for a tour around the Art & Design faculty, and am truly impressed. Really, Malaysia got talents-lah! :)


*The whole event was a memorable experience. The staffs & managing committee involved were professional and made me feel very comfortable.

A heartfelt thank you to the team involved.

Your Own Boss

The past 2 weeks have been hectic. Ever since the release of the books, I've had so many errands to do... a lot of them dealing with the sending out of the books to the respective groups of people, including the people who made it very possible - the contributors.

And in between, I fell ill. Then just 2 days back, the printer spoilt. This hardy All-in-one printer just keeps reading 'error', and refuses to print. The print load of hundreds of papers the past 2 weeks may have taken its toll.

All this coming in the crucial time.

The printer has since been repaired and is as good as new now... but that is not what I would like to share here.

Challenges Are Not New
Actually, such challenges is not new. In fact, while in the process of producing the book, there were a few very challenging 'obstacles' we faced:

1. Designer's computer breakdown
Can you imagine, just when we were near our deadline, her computer had to 'take a rest' for a few days. That got me kinda worried and of course, I was quite anxious. We were finally on track to our delayed timeline, and then this...

So, all we could do was to wait & she running to use her friends' computers when possible.

You could imagine, that was quite a stressful period.

2. Over exceeding number of pages
Guess due to over excitement to fill in every bit of detail on Malaysia and as many photos from the contributors (the photos really are too beautiful to discard), we exceeded the number of pages by 50%!

When I found out, I was in a big shock. That was way beyond budget... and the thing is we were so ready to send it to the printers already.

But without a choice, we had to trim the pages back. That meant an overhaul of all the layout & the trimming of the words - all 300 pages of them.

That took the book a back seat of a close 2 weeks, and again, pressed us for time (I had to negotiate time with the printers).

Flashbacks
So when the printer brokedown, I once again, felt a lil setback, as it would mean some delay once again. And I guess because of the overwhelming workload (of this project & a new one I'm embarking), it just got a lil 'heavy' on me...

Then all the conversations I've heard/ have been hearing like
"It's not easy", "Don't know if it's worth it", "Other people are doing/ earning xxx"... all just came flowing into my head.

But, unlike last time when I first started, these words are now just words. Yes, they do come into my mind but they 'go in the left ear, goes out on the right'.

And then, I heard those 'magical words' from some relatives - the people I believe are usually your hardest critics, who will keep you on your toes & running! Yes, they are finally seeing what I'm doing, and acknowledges them (whew!).

Y.O.B.
More interestingly, I've just met an overseas aunt and she mentioned, YOB.

"Y.O.B"... I was thinking I've heard somewhere before... yes, I remembered there is this M.Y.O.B. (mind your own business)..., but YOB?

"Your Own Boss" she clarifies.

She was encouraging me that YOB is the way to go... Now I see it. And her words came exactly the day the printer broke down - what a coincidence! :)