no sawadeekap?

WILL Thailand be ready for the SEA Games?

This seems to be doubtful after a visit by the National Sports Council officers to Korat.

With only six months before the regional Games begin, the sporting facilities are yet to be fully utilised.

Even worse the construction boxing arena (pic above) is yet to be complete while the hockey pitch (down) does not seem to be in good condition.


The situation now explains Olympic Council of Malaysia secretary Datuk Sieh Kok Chi's lambast in the organisation of the Games as the officials are still in the dark over what events will be contested, the athletes do not know what are they training for while the media have yet to receive any accredation forms to fill.

Even worse for the Thai athletes, it will be impossible for them to get acustomed to thier home stadias.

The current political situation in Thailand is not helping either, so could this mean there will be no pretty Thai lasses greeting us at the Bangkok Airport come year end?

Only time will tell.

-The Man Who Sold The World-

hooked on drugs

ITS been a drug filled month.

From former German top cyclist Erik Zabel's recent admission of taking the banned blood booster erythropoietin while competing for national team Telekom in 1996 to the arrest of four Sarawakian footballers back home- its seems everyone's had a fair share of drug abuse.

While the National Shooting Association of Malaysia is still investigating the reasons to the failed dope test by three of their shooters including Bibiana Ng, the entertainment scene too has been rocked with drugs scandals.

However, both Mael of XPDC and Jamal Abdillah have been acquitted by the courts while a case against former anti crime TV3 presenter Mazidul Akmal Sidek is still pending.

Back to the local sportsmen, the shooters can kiss the Korat SEA Games goodbye while despite getting high, the Sarawak team are placed rock bottom in the Malaysian Super League.

Thus the decision of starting random dope test at grassroots meets is warmly welcomed, something which has been toyed around for the past two years.

CBC Sports Online have a good list of most influential drug scandals in the sporting world for the past decade here.

-The Man Who Sold The World-

EY, TNB to chase for honours

THE Malaysian Hockey League (MHL) is set to start tommorow.

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) are the new sponsors of the MHL after handing out RM1million.

There was an issue of participating teams wanting to pull out after the Malaysian Hockey Federation had asked teams to place the tournament logo on the jerseys, something similar to the M-League sponsored by Telekom Malaysia.

However, the telco company sponsors each football team a certain sum of money for placing the TM or Celcom logo on the jerseys while TNB is not doing so.

Also, former national football player and current football pundit Serbegeth Singh (aka Shebby) is now the media advisor for the national hockey body and was influential in bringing in several fresh new policies. much to the displeasure of certain quarters.

It comes to no surprise as the electric giants are aiming for a double- the League and Overall titles- for this season.

Among the national players in the TNB squad include Kelvinder Singh (pic), Sallehin Ghani, Baljit Singh, S.Selvaraju and S.Kumar.

Nevertheless, Ernst & Young (EY) and Sapure are also favourties to win the title with Maybank being the dark horses of the league. Updates on the league will be made available at hockey356, a site developed by former national Arul Selvaraj.

Matches in KL will be played at the Pantai, Bukit Jalil and Tun Razak Stadiums starting from 5pm onwards. Entrance is free.

TNB-MHL

Division One

EY, TNB, Sapura, Maybank, Bukit Jalil Sports School

Division Two

Dolphins, Royal Malaysian Air Force, Jurutera Letrik dan Jentera, Bandar Penawar Sports School, Mara Technology University, Perlis University, Kedah Hockey Association-Nur Insafi, MSN Terengganu, Sukses Selangor, Batu Pahat Sikhs, Rangers, Royal Malay Regiment.

-The Man Who Sold The World-

get registered

THE General Elections could be sooner than expected.

With annoucements of a salary rise for civil servants to a possible sale of City Hall houses to those renting, many believe the ruling administration are all geared up for a possible voting event.

The guessing game has begun to when it might occur as Deputy Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak said its up to his 'boss' to decide.

Some believe it could be in October while others feel it could be earlier as the pay hike the Ijok elections and other issues are still fresh in the minds of the public giving the ruling government (Barisan Nasional) the upper hand.

It's time to get registered and fulfil your obligation as a responsible citizen.

-The Man Who Sold The World-

Dr Martens- We'll walk you to heaven.

STILL remember the Dr Martens boots which made an impact in the early 90s?

While the company's popularity suffered a dip due to the lack of punk influence during the mid-90s onwards and with its rather staled-design yet pricey boots in this region, UK based Dr Martens were up for an ad-campaign to revive its popularity.

Nevertheless, it back fired as their poster (pic) of Nirvana's former front man the late Kurt Cobain donning its boots, with the tagline 'Dr Martens Forever' at the bottom right corner, received heavy criticism from none other then Cobain's estate holder cum wife Courtney Love.

The company wanted to send the message that their boots 'are made to last' but it gives the impression their boots will 'walk you to heaven'.

Among the other fallen stars in the advert combo are Sid Vicious (Sex Pistol), Joe Strummer (The Clash) and Joey Ramone (The Ramones).

Ironically, Cobain is a well known for wearing Converse shoes- a fashion statement which his Seattle Grunge group made popular in the early 90s.

Dr Martens have pulled out the advert.

p/s: Poster aside, their website is rather daft (as the English put it) and really challenges the eyes of the reader.

-The Man Who Sold The World-

we ROCK!

A tribute to some of the best classic rock songs for the past four decades;

1965- (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction- The Rolling Stones

1966- Paint It Black- The Rolling Stones

1967- Purple Haze- Jimi Hendrix

1968- Sympathy For The Devil- The Rolling Stones

1969- Space Oddity- David Bowie

1970- Black Magic Woman- Santana

1971- Stairway To Heaven- Led Zeppelin

1972- Heart Of Gold- Neil Young

1973- The Great Gig In The Sky- Pink Floyd

1974- I Shot The Sheriff- Eric Clapton

1975- Bohemian Rhapsody- Queen

1976- Hotel California -Eagles

1977- We Will Rock You- Queen

1978- Sultans Of Swing- Dire Straits

1979- Another Brick In The Wall, Part 2- Pink Floyd

1980- You Shook Me All Night Long- AC/DC

1981- John Lenon- Woman

1982- Bad To The Bone- George Thorogood & The Destroyers

1983- Every Breath You Take- Police

1984- Jump- Van Halen

1985- I'm On Fire- Bruce Springsteen

1986- The Final Countdown- Europe

1987- With Or Without You- U2

1988- Need You Tonight- INXS

1989- When I See You Smile- Bad English

1990- Man In The Box- Alice In Chains

1991- The Unforgiven- Metallica

1992- God Gave Rock And Roll To You- Kiss

1993- All Appologies- Nirvana

1994- Kashmir- Jimmy Page & Robert Plant

1995- 1979- Smashing Pumpkins

1996- Crash Into Me- Dave Matthews Band

1997- Paranoid Andriod- Radiohead

1998- Flagpole Sitta- Harvey Danger

1999- We're In This Together- Nine Inch Nails

2000- With Arms Wide Open- Creed

2001- It's Been Awhile- Staind

2003- Here Without You- 3 Doors Down

2004- American Idiot- Green Day

Of course we can never forget the great tunes from Beatles, The Who, Ramones, Bob Dylan, Pearl Jam, Guns and Roses, Deftones, Aerosmith and The Killers among others, but there are just too many good rock songs around eh :)

-The Man Who Sold The World-

No devils?

IT was only natural to see this coming but unless the FA of Malaysia (FAM) and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) come to an agreement, English Premier League Champions Manchester United will NOT be coming here.

United, represented by its chief executive David Gill (pic) and EPL chairman Dave Richards met with FAM’s deputy president Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahamad revealed this to reporters separately. Both the Englishmen also had a talk with AFC president Mohamed Hamman at Bukit Jalil yesterday with no positive outcome. This was also reported in United's official site.

However, what is baffling is to the earlier response given by Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi about the Man U tour. Abdullah was quoted saying he would like to see the English club side grace the Bukit Jalil field as part of Malaysia’s 50th anniversary.

Did Abdullah say this because of his ‘fanatic’ Red Devil son-in-law Khairy Jamaludin or due to the pressure by certain quarters? Abdullah’s advisors could have very well informed him about the existing contract between FAM and AFC with regards to the Asian Cup.

Then you have the ill-informed Youth and Sports Ministry who does little to aid the situation, backed with the Tourism Ministry who are only interested in getting their end of the deal. Sadly, many parties would prefer having Man U here despite knowing the fact FAM (and national football generally) will suffer the consequences.

Oh well, like my earlier posting, no one gives a damn about not having a ‘legal Malaysian league’ for the coming season as long as they can get to see some money making Mat Salleh club make a fool of their fellow Malaysians.

While everyone tries to get their way, FAM suffers. Lesson to be learnt, even the Malaysian Prime Minister cannot dictate who comes and goes, it’s about adhering principles, something which he and his advisors have got to learn.

Meanwhile, talks of Pete Sampras and Roger Federer coming to town have been answered as they will partake in the Merdeka Tennis Challenge at the Malawati Stadium in Shah Alam this Nov 22. Surprisingly the Lawn Tennis Association of Malaysia (LTAM) seems to be in the dark over the event. Perhaps another issue in the making..hmm.

p/s: What about ticking off a senior minister (Works Minister Samy Vellu) in public and a flooded cafeteria at the Jalan Duta courts? Another ‘boo-hoo’ for Abdullah and his advisors.

Pic: Gill (R) being greeted by AFC's general secretary Paul Money Samuel at the AFC headquarters in Bukit Jalil yesterday. -courtesy of REUTERS/Bazuki Muhammad.

-The Man Who Sold The World-

not much hope on duo

MUCH hope will not be placed on Malaysian Ibrahim Amir and Patrick Ooi (pic) in the third leg of the Guinness 9 Ball Tour at Genting Highlands scheduled June 15-17, 2007.

Both cue artists were cursed with tough draws in the two earlier legs (Jakarta & Taiwan) but Malaysian Snooker and Billiards Federation (MSBF) hope their players will be able to showcase their best in the early stages of the tournament.

Ibrahim was drawn in Group A together with Jakarta leg champion Chang Jung-Lin of Taiwan and Hong Kong's Au Chi Wai. Patrick, meanwhile, was roped with Taiwan's prince of pool Yang Ching-Shun and Japanese Naoyuki Oi.

Ching-Shun eventually won the second leg at home.

"We are expecting the best out of them since the first rounds are played in a round robin manner. We hope Patrick and Ibrahim will play their best and qualify to the knock out stages," said MSBF secretary Melvin Chia.

Ching-Shun is currently one of the best pool players in the world and the Doha Asian Games bronze medallist is a prodigy of former world champion Chao FongPang.

Ibrahim had a disappointing run in the first leg at Jakarta. Nevertheless, he has pulled several surprised over the years, registering wins over Filipino Efren 'The Magician' Reyes and Ching-Shun.

"I hope our side will be able to buckle up the game and make an impact. Otherwise it's going to be another learning experience," added Melvin.

Meanwhile, national snooker player Moh Keen Hoo was invited to partake in an invitational tournament in Dahlian, China. Seven other players join him including two from China, Hong Kong and Thailand respectively and another from Singapore.

Pic: It will be more of a learning experience for Ibrahim (left) and Patrick as they gear up for the Korat SEA Games in Decemeber.

-The Man Who Sold The World-

from writing to reality?

WE were told of a young journo's bullish ambition in making his writings to reality.

As confessed in his new blog called Apex Analyzed The Malay Mail motorsports writer Ghaz Ramli plans to take the extra mile by creating sentences on the track; his new ambition of racing in the local cub prix scene.

Also, the blog will serve as a platform dedicated towards the motor industry- ranging from local updates to pit stop gossips.

Let's see if this writer could turn his passion into a serious deal. Till then, we at creamcrackers wish this Ipoh lad all the best!

-The Man Who Sold The World-

it is exciting, if you give it a chance

IT was a mundane held back match between newly crowned English Premier League champions Manchester United and winners Chelsea in the FA Cup final at the newly renovated Wembly Stadium over the weekend.

Yet, many spoke enthusiastically about the match, which saw Ivory Coast marksman Didier Drogba slotting in the solitary goal of the match.

In fact, just hours earlier, the local football scene was gripped with more drama as the race towards the Malaysian Super League title comes to a boiling point.

Kedah currently leads the standings with 42 points with Perak trailing closely behind, just two points shy.

Yes, we also have the surprise of the season in Brunei's club side DPMM FC which ought to finish in the top five bracket thanks to current top scorer and possible golden boot winner Shahrazain Said.

The attendance at the Wembly Stadium was full. In Germany, thousands of fans celebrated as VfB Stuttgart were named the Bundesliga champions of the season. Back home, it would be a joy to even see the stadium half full in the city stadiums.

Nevertheless it must be noted teams up north are blessed with support from their home crowd as stadiums are often packed with enthusiastic fans.

People question the standards, yet how many actually sit through the whole 90 minutes? Perak, under the guidance of Englishman Steve Darby, delievers good football and so does Azraai Khor Abdullah's charges (Kedah).

Followers would agree this has been a rather interesting season in the local league. From UPB-MyTeam's interesting debut in the Premier League to the battle of northern supremacy in the Super League, it has been a rather exciting run.

The FA of Malaysia have made several blunders along the way, more importantly in the scheduling of the matches. They are now again in hot soup, this time in referance to the antics of Manchester United's tour to the region and by Price Group Ltd, the organisers of the very expensive Champions Youth Cup tournament, in suing FIFA.

National youth coach B.Sathianathan insisted, Malaysian standards are that of the SEA Games, while several veteran writers and officials believce it is high time to get in foriegners to don the Malaysian jersey.

Leaving the national team aside, the local league has much to offer. Instead of just supporting foriegn clubs, why not add a local team into the menu?

Local clubs only rely on a trickle of foriegn talents, instead of certain outside teams which their first eleven are stars all over the world. Thus it comes to no surprise why England has only won the World Cup once (1966) thus far.

Some may argue at least England are regulars in the World Cup unlike Malaysia. So are we now prefering foreign establishments then those of our own?

Old fashion perhaps, but nationality starts by supporting the local scene. Whether its football or music, it must be Malaysia first, everything else second.

Too bad there will only be a few of us who actually stand to such an opinion while the rest will still go on to be the slaves of such foriegn entities.

Pic: Perak's Keita Mandjou (yellow) battling it out with Selangor's Mohd Nasriq Baharom at the Perak Stadium in Ipoh earlier this month. -courtesy of tmfootballchannel.com

For more updates on the local football scene, visit www.fam.org.my or www.tmfootballchannel.com

-The Man Who Sold The World-

point blanc aint shooting blanks

I'VE been humming the song 'Ipohmali' since its' video-clip was aired on TV.

The song, sung by former Poetic Ammo member Point Blanc, has made it to the top of the Hitz FM's Malaysian English Top 10 charts for two consecutive weeks, thus it comes no surprise why the catchy tune is starting to become the talk of the town.

While it is still in the modest stage compared to Too Phat's Anak Ayam which got many Malaysians dancing to the old Malay folk tune, Ipohmali has its charm coupled with a rather good effort in the making of the video-clip.

The local English scene have yet to find its footing in the country. Only a minority believe in a more Malaysian-ised song while the local buying power is rather pathetic.

Poetic Ammo was more of a Dr Dre, Snoop Dog influenced group but they didn't really come up to expectations. Too Phat did get some good coverage and air time, but they too just vanished just like their KL and Phat Farm merchandises.

Not many local English artists have made an impact with the exception, among others, Pete Teo and Pop Shuvit. Yet, the public too are not well aware of such players and even frown when told Rabbit once bagged an AIM award.

We also have indie bands like Seven Collar T-Shirt, Republic of Brickfields and Love Me Butch which have made quite a wave, but only in the underground scene.

Yes, we do have Reshmonu and Sasi The Don, but they too have not made any significant impact but for their hair-do.

Public mentality has oftened compared the local music industry with those of the West. Sadly, many do not realise some local artists have the niche of going far but for the 'lets praise the West' attitude seen among most Malaysian listeners.

Time has come to change such a preception and perhaps catchy tunes like Ipohmali, from Point Blanc's solo album Straight to the Point will be a start for better things to come.

Note the video-clip have several noted personalities, from Patrick Teoh, the Sinclair sibblings to even national X-Games skateboader Johary Fitry (aka Joe Ipoh).

In the meantime, its back to humming the Ipohmali song for the creamcrackers crew. Hopefully Point Blanc will be as famous, if not more famous, then the Ipoh chicken rice.

Just wondering Point Blanc; no Taiping-mali song ka?

pic: Point Blanc's Straight to the Point will be in stores within this month. For updates check out http://str8tothepoint.blogspot.com/. Pic coutersy of str8tothepoint.blogspot.com

-The Man Who Sold The World-

Bring in the leaking clowns

Time and time again the remarks and gestures made in the Malaysian Parliament continue to bring shame upon Malaysians.

The truth is, our so called Parliamentary debates are often conducted in the most bizarre, distasteful and shameful manner.

The recent ‘bocor’ incident isn’t something new. Datuk Bung Mokhtar Radin, the Barisan Nasional MP uttered “Mana ada bocor? Batu Gajah pun bocor tiap-tiap bulan juga Tranlasted to-(Where is the leak? The Batu Gajah (woman) MP(Fong Poh Kuan) leaks every month too).

This remark has now caused a stir among Malaysians from all walks of life. And yet, we hear ministers like Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Aziz saying there was nothing wrong with the statement made as all parliamentarians can speak what they wish as they have the immunity to do so.

Let’s put aside Nazri Aziz’s lack of intellect and the MPs distasteful remark for now.

What baffles me most is whether is this the kind of remark that ought to be made in the four walls of Parliament which is regarded as the most supreme house of the land?

Such a remark made from the people elected MPs were certainly uncalled for. What started out as an issue being raised by a few opposition MPs regarding ceiling leaks at Parliament’s media room was blown out of proportion.

It was an issue pertaining to the safety of the media and also the safety of all invitees to Parliament house. Yet some MPs ridiculed the issue all together by saying how minute the issue was.

The Deputy Speaker of the House Datuk Lim Si Cheng regarded the issue raised by the opposition MP Chong Chieng Jen as an issue which had no relevance under rule 26 (IP) of the house rules and other ruling party MPs claimed that the leaks posed no immediate threats.

Yet, just a few days before this incident the Prime Minister commented on the leaks at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil. Prior to that, it was the leaks at government offices in Putrajaya and the shoddy construction works at the new Court Complex in Jalan Duta.

Thus, if these related incidents were considered crucial issues and one which required immediate attention, shouldn't the leakages discovered in Parliament be considered serious as well?

It should be noted that in April 2005, rain water gushed into the Dewan Rakyat on our cabinet ministers who were in the house debating. The said incident was due to leaks from the roof of the Dewan Rakyat.

It’s such an irony that so much time is wasted on trivial party bashing debates (which the idea of relevance is questionable), yet the same lot of people don’t seem to be bothered on the possibilities of a piece of ceiling falling on their heads.

Maybe our Malaysian MPs can learn a thing or two by looking at the practices of our former colonial masters. It’s indeed sad that even after 50 years of independence, the mindset of certain parties have yet to develop progressively. Until that time comes, I guess we shall be anticipating more ‘clever’ remarks coming from the members of our Malaysian Parliament.

For a contrast of a Malaysian style parliamentary debate and a British style debate click here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqnw-q93wyc and here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INBFwHT9yvc .

For The Man Who Sold The World’s take on Bung Mokhtar ridiculing DAP’s Karpal Singh in parliament not so long ago, click here http://pollyneedsacracker.blogspot.com/2006_06_01_archive.html

Pic from akamai.net

-about a girl-

10 Ways to Get a Good Workout

In conjunction with the recent sporty weekend post, here are some workout tips for fitness enthusiasts. Article is the published work of the author. Enjoy!

WORKING out is naturally something which you either love or loathe. Ideally one really has to ‘think fit’ in order to get fit. A structured exercise plan is essential before one starts embarking on an exercise line-up.

Stay tune and let us provide you with simple tips for those problem areas that may require some attention. Also find out how you can turn simple workout ideas into fabulous training routines that will get you in shape in no time.

Arms

Being put off by the way your arms look like in the mirror? Instead of doing your conventional free-style shoulder press and triceps extension, try weight training. Weight training is crucial for defining arm muscles. While men prefer having muscular arms, women will not develop big muscles due to the lack of testosterone hormone. To get well toned arms try these workouts.

At the Gym

Triceps Extension
Stand straight and place arms above head and dumbbells at the back of the neck.

Raise dumbbells above head and hold for 6 seconds. Repeat 20 sets.

At Home

Shoulder Presses
Stand 2 ½ feet in front of a table the height of your hip with feet about 10 inches apart.
Drop body slowly towards the table until the chest part almost touches the table. Straighten arms completely, hold for 5 seconds and return to original position.

Waist/Tummy

Don’t we all love to have a small waistline and a flat tummy. Exercising and toning muscle definition at the waist can provide a firmer and smaller looking appearance. It is essential to note that the abdominal muscles must be worked out every day in order make it flat and toned. Follow these simple steps for terrific looking abs.


At the Gym

Abdominal Machine
Adjust seat and align the middle of the torso with pivot point. Place elbows on movement pads while gripping handles slightly.
Push chest towards hips and slowly contract abs in a crunch motion. Return to start. Repeat 8 sets.

At Home

Fit ball Crunch
Lie on the fit ball to support back. Tuck chin in slightly.
Contract abdominals and slowly curl rib cage towards hips. Return to start position. Repeat 20 sets.


Buttocks

The gluteal or butt muscles must be trained in order to improve speed and increase stamina when jogging or walking. A well toned butt not only looks good but it also provides good support for the hips and can help improve posture. It is best to perform isolated butt exercises rather then multiple exercise for a perky looking butt.

At the Gym

Step Board
A step board is a great tool which can be used at the gym to workout the buttocks. By stepping on and off the board you are not only burning calories but you are also improving the appearance and size of your rear end.

At Home

Squats
Squats are a form of power exercise hence adding some resistance (weights) is vital for achieving better results.

1. Stand straight with both arms at the side while holding weights.
2. Slowly bend your knees and hold for 8 seconds. Return to original position.


Thighs and Calves

Legs have always been a great asset for women. The build up of cellulite over the years is probably due to the years of constant neglect for our legs. Fret not as there is still hope for those who want to flaunt their legs in those tight minis. Say goodbyes to those thunder thighs and pigeon legs with this simple solution.

At the Gym

Glutes Machine

1. Adjust torso pad to fit between chest and abdominals. Place right foot on foot-
plate and slightly flex knees.

2. Extend hip and knees. Slowly return footplate to starting position. Rotate
footplate and repeat with left leg.


At Home

Seated Calf Raise
Seat on a chair with legs on the ground and weights on thighs (alternatively use ankle weights)
Raise feet to the balls of feet. Hold for 8 seconds and drop back on heels. Repeat 10 sets.

Cardiovascular Workout

At the Gym

RPM®

RPM is an indoor cycling programme and is great form of cardiovascular training. Most gym studios that offer this programme are equipped with many stationary bicycles.
RPM® enables one to burn up to 700 calories in a single session and is an excellent workout for those who want to shed off extra weight. This workout is also tailored to increase lower body strength and improve overall endurance.

At Home

To increase the intensity of your cardiovascular work out at home, the frequency of the exercise programme (e.g. jogging) must be increased. Try to also add on knee or ankle weights during while brisk walking and also add sprinting to your jogging routine.

pic from rosescafe.net

-about a girl-

a sporty weekend

IT has been a rather sporty weekend in Malaysia.

From Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's intention of having Manchester United over to our hockey lads qualifying to the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup final after a lapse of 22 years, it has all been about sports, sports and more sports.

Here are some of the highlights of the week in short;

1. FIFA and AFC lambasted Manchester United and Chelsea for the post season tours during the summer break as it clashes with the Asian Cup. Nevertheless, after much outcry from the Malaysian public, the FA of Malaysia will be working on a solution to get the Red Devils and Le Blues on our soil.

2. After a lapse of 22 years, the Malaysian hockey side, under the guidance of coach Sarjit Singh made it to the final of the Sultan Azlan Shah Tournament. Nevertheless, their route to a memorable finish ended after a 3-1 defeat to Australia. Coming in second still gave hockey fans something to cheer about in a long time.

3. The Lawn Tennis Association of Malaysia (LTAM) will be sending more players abroad after a rather dissapointing run in the Junior Fed Cup Asia/Oceania qualifiers at the National Tennis Stadium. Malaysia came in 14th after losing to New Zealand. Thailand meanwhile won the final after beating the Australian juniors 2-1.

4. Singapore obtains the hosting rights for the F1 GP, thus leaving Sepang International Circuit on a rather rocky situation. Nevertheless, SIC chairperson Mokhzani Mahathir is not too preturbed over the scenario adding more advertising will be done to pull in the crowd.

5. Lee Chong Wei added another silverware after winning the Indonesian Open beating China's Bao Chunlai 21-16, 21-15. The meet also saw Malaysian duo Zakry Latiff and Fairuzizuan losing to World Number 1 pair China's Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng in the doubles final. Apparently the reporting of the event by TV3 caused an uproar to several viewers. An email sent to TV3 and the Olympic Council of Malaysia was obtained by creamcrackers.

"To whom it may concern,

This email is with regards to your sports news aired during Bulletin Utama yesterday (May 12) and today (May 13).

I am baffled by the reporting of your sports crew with regards to the creditable run by the new Malaysian pair of Zakry Latif and Fairuzizuan Tazari.

What caught me off guard is the constant usage of the phrase 'anak Melayu' used by tv station. Does the sports team at TV3 really think that the Malays in this country are threathen by the winnings of their non-Malay teammates that they need to publically annouce that a MALAY pair had done well?

This is another clear example that even after 50 years of independance, we are still not 'Malaysians' after all.

Yours truly,

Dr Patrick Lim"

6. Finally, three national shooters failed a dope test, one being a Beijing Olympic bound shooter.

-The Man Who Sold The World-

F1 goes to Singapore

LET us be the first to inform you... Singapore gets the F1 Grand Prix gig!

Starting from 2008, the Republic will be added to the GP racing calender, slated either in September or early October.

The contract duration is unclear. Also questionable is the proposed and much awaited night race.

The 'street race' will be held in and around Marina Bay area and this will surely effect the Malaysian GP.

Nevertheless, Sepang International Circuit (SIC) chairman Mokhzani Mahathir is not too preturbed over Singapore's hosting of the GP, adding SIC needs to buck up and further promote the Malaysian edition.

SIC will host the GP until 2010.

pic of Marina Bay, Singapore courtesy of www.shafir.info

-The Man Who Sold The World-

to come or not to come

SO will the Red Devils and Le Blues be coming to our shores once again? This seems the question as AFC and FIFA have made it clear for the money making European based clubs to forget about their Asian tour during the Asian Cup period.

Nevertheless, local dailies have splashed news, one including of Khairy Jamaluddin's comments, on why the Red Devils ought to be hosted.

The outburst seem to have attracted Sports minister Azalina Othman Said to speak her mind.

The sad part is there are suckers out there willing to pay hundreds if not thousands to witness the Malaysian side being humbled by a bunch of Mat Salleh clowns. Pretty interesting as we celebrate 50 years of independence.

Obtained the press release just seconds ago from the National Sports Council. As below;

10th MAY 2007

PRESS RELEASE
------------------------

PRESS STATEMENT BY MINISTER OF YOUTH AND SPORTS, YB DATUK SERI AZALINA DATUK OTHMAN SAID, ON MANCHESTER UNITED'S MATCH IN MALAYSIA.


It is with a heavy heart that I have noted that the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), had decided at their recent Congress, not to sanction the friendly match between the Malaysian National Team and Manchester United on July 27 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.

I understand and fully respect the decision and reasons behind AFC's stand, but I would have expected a little more compassionate, especially from the AFC president, Mohamed Hammam, who is close a friend of the FA of Malaysia president, Sultan Ahmad Shah and Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad.

Malaysia have always had close rapport with AFC and FIFA and always supported and respected them. The fact that the AFC headquarters sits in Malaysia, further underlines Malaysia's support towards AFC, especially Sultan Ahmad Shah who was instrumental and responsible of it being coming a reality.

We are indeed grateful that the FIFA president Datuk Joseph S Blatter and Mohamed, for having given a positive undertaking on sanctioning the Champions Youth Cup (CYC).

We hope the same compassionate hearing could be give for the Manchester United's visit.

This is Malaysia's 50 years of independence and also the Visit Malaysia 2007 Year and Manchester United's and the CYC tournament are part of the celebrations. It would indeed be a dampener, if these celebrations have to be cancelled, especially when a lot of money has been spent by the Ministry of Tourism in promoting the events.

Malaysians are No 1 soccer fans and personally I do not believe that the Manchester United's one match here is going to jeopardise the fan turnout for the Asian Cup Finals. Let me assure AFC, that FA of Malaysia and the Malaysian government will do everything possible to promote the Asian Cup Finals and bring in the crowd to the Stadium.

I am saddened by the turn of events, but I sincerely hope that AFC and FIFA, will review their current stand in the interest of soccer in Malaysia and the fact that it is our 50 years of celebration of independence and Visit Malaysia Year.

Ends

Pic: National player Hairuddin Omar trying to stop Manchester United's Ryan Giggs during 2001/2002 pre-season at the Bukit Jalil Stadium. Man U won 6-0. -pic courtesy of http://manunited.airmode.de

-The Man Who Sold The World-

jack of all trades, master of any?

PERLIS menteri besar Shahidan Kassim spoke of his intentions to challenge current Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) president Tunku Imran Tuanku Jaafar in the May 26 elections.

Shahidan, which is known to be wearing too many hats at a time, ought to reconsider his intentions in adding another responsibilty to his already full plate.

Note, Shahidan is the president of the Amatuer Swimming Union of Malaysia, president of the Malaysian Amatuer Athletics Association, President of the Perlis Football Association and is the head of the Kabaddi Association of Malaysia.

It is a common run by politicians in the country to try and be part of the sporting scene, despite the fact having little or no knowledge with regards of the sport nor its structure.

Such a move is claimed to be political in nature, just like how Khairy Jamaluddin heads Premier League outfit UPB-MyTeam, Najib Tun Razak is part of a Felda settlement team while health minister Dr Chua Soi Lek is still the 'president' of the Malaysian Volleyball Association.

The truth is, the only reason politicians are there is due to the fact sports association crave for the supply of funding, which is made easier with the pressence of a 'big fish'. No where in the developed nation one sees a politician running the sporting scene.

Association secretary's at times do not have direct access to these politician presidents of theirs, what more between ordinary members.

Also, what difference Shahidan will be able to make in the OCM? Even if elected, the Tambun Tulang State Assemblyman will be busy with the general elections, said to be closer than expected.

If Shahidan loves sports, he will sporting leave his intentions. Otherwise, welcome to a not so new era of another politician messing around with Malaysian sports.

p/s: If Shahidan truly thinks he can make a difference, start by making a stand- politics or sports.

-The Man Who Sold The World-

Mat Rempit rules in Bolehland

I was rather disturbed after reading one local daily this morning regarding the recent Putera Umno feat in the North Pole.

It should be noted that I am not ridiculing the act of creating national and world records with this feat of theirs but rather the glory that has been bestowed to these former Mat Rempits.

The daily reported that the Umno team comprising 12 former Mat Rempits have now been invited by the Governor of Mecca, Prince Faisal to attempt to skydive in the Muslim holy land of Mecca in Saudi Arabia.

According to UMNO's wing chief, Datuk Abdul Azeez Abdul Rahim "..sceptics should open their eyes now that their members had achieved the feat and received acknowledgement by others..."

Azeez further added that these former Mat Rempits will soon be roped in for training to become professional sky jumpers.

Fine, the Malaysian public was sceptic about the entire mission, but surely it wasn't whether the entire mission would be a flop! Instead individuals were more concern over the fact that thousands of ringgit was being spent on a group of people who were former public menaces.

These are the same youths who indulged in illegal racing on public streets and caused unwanted accidents on the Malaysian streets. The same people who broke so many rules and went above the law. In addition, these were the same group who caused distress among other users of public and some were even high on drugs. Yet these were the same people being sent overseas on so called "national" missions to "mengharumkan nama negara"?

We all make mistakes .Yet the same time we should also provide chances for people to turn a new leaf and undo their wrongs. However, surely there must be a certain level of perks that should be given to people who want to repent. But sending Mat Rempits to the North Pole ... I suppose everything is Boleh in Bolehland. I guess we'll soon be hearing about a former rempit who will be Malaysia's second Astronaut or maybe even a rocket scientist one day. Surely, the ruling party would somehow see this as a good investment.

Perhaps the people up there believed that these Mat Rempits could deliver .Since they've conquered every major highways and federal roads in Malaysia, surely skydiving in the North Pole would be a piece of cake. Who more better to adapt with nerve wrecking weather conditions if not the former Mat Rempits. Knowing that these guys posses daredevil enthusiasms, why not sent them there right?

So now, these former group of rempits will be visiting schools, kampungs and youth community centres to share with the public their experiences of conquering the North Pole. These "national heroes" will soon be offered positions in government offices or the local Umno branches accross the nation for their amazing efforts of making their nation "proud", or to the extent of receiving monetary cash prizes. And even perhaps to the extend of awarding some of them with Datukships?? Possible yes..possible!!

I'm sure there are former SPM and STPM high achievers who were not selected to furter their education abroad who feel really shitty because this feat of the Rempits have prooven that 11A's for SPM is much more inferior compared to the places that a Malaysian Mat Rempit can go.

Bolehland. A nation where "national menaces" become "national heroes" almost overnight!! The spirit of Malaysia Boleh is widely applicable in any single way I suppose.

Some information on Mat Rempits courtesy of Wikipedia :

A Mat Rempit is a Malaysian term for 'an individual who participates in illegal street racing', usually involving underbone motorcycles (Kapcai) or scooters. Minah Rempit can refer to either the female counterpart, or a female companion of a Mat Rempit. Not all Mat Rempits involve in street racing, some of them just ride their motorcycle's dangerously on public roads just for thrills. Mat Rempits usually travel in groups and race in bustling city centres on weekend nights. As of recently, Mat Rempits have been linked to gangsterism, gang robbery[1][2], fighting, vandalism, thefts and bullying. Most motorcycles used by the Mat Rempits do not meet standard specifications, or have been modified extensively. Additionally, some Mat Rempit do not have valid licenses, do not pay road taxes, and ride stolen motorcycles. [3] [4] More and more housing estates were turned into racing tracks.[5] It is estimated that there are about 200,000 Mat Rempits in Malaysia. [6] The terms of Mat Rempit also used in Singapore and Indonesia for the same reason.

-about a girl-

a tribute to the minority few

THIS is a tribute to women.

No, certainly not to all women, but just a small diminishing minority whom I have had the opportunity to bump into ever since I learnt the art of communicating with the fairer sex.

And for some circumstances, all I have is admiration towards this group of individuals.

We keep reminding ourselves we live in a modern society but yet most of the modern women seem confused over the roles they play. The majority claim to be ‘independent’ but instead rely heavily on their male partners for support- ranging from being a social driver to a walking ATM machine.

The majority get all hyped up over the romantically inclined movies they watch, thinking they too can live in a Cinderella like situation, getting hooked up with a rich good looking chap who could buy her the whole world. Now this is a typical statement or phrase we often hear, but I wonder why men just tolerate such behaviour.

Oh well, once a girl spreads her legs everything else is clouded eh.

Back to the majority of women. Not to sound sexiest, but it is quite obvious most of the average women these days are quite in a confused state. Some classic examples;

1 Most women like the fact of men opening doors allowing them to walk first. If a man fails to do so, he is deemed ‘un-gentleman’. Question is, do women ever open any doors (besides their personal doors) for men?

2 Most women claim they are independent; they do need to survive on their men. Question, then how come the lady greeds for half of the men’s property when she divorces him?

3 Most women expect the guy to pay for her meals and send her home afterwards (this includes LRT rides as well). Has it ever occurred to them that the guy could be cash strapped or the fact he'll be heading home all alone?

4 Most women try their level best to cut off their partner’s communication with other women or worst still other men as well. Friends of decades are dished aside over newly found lovers. So once you’re together you aren’t supposed to make any more friends?

5 Most women, whom are still unattached beyond the age of 26, tend to be more unrealistic. Thinking that most women actually mature early is a general misconception as this unattached group will start aiming for the skies without realising their capabilities. As any typical Malaysian would say, “No offence la, but look at yourself first before you start aiming for the 5, 6 or 7 C’s (ie car, condo, credit card…etc) la”

The list goes on actually.

However, I have known the minority few who actually believe in going Dutch when paying for a meal or when going to the movies; the minority few who believes in not troubling the guy by taking their own effort.

This minority few actually have opinions and stick to their principles, they tend to look life in a more realistic manner and believe in strong values despite their outlook.

Sadly, this minority few are akin to a needle in a hay stack.

It is interesting to note that such individuals normally have a dark past which tends to make them more realistic and stronger in facing the world. This minority actually go forward in life without the reliance of anyone else. Also, this minority saves the blushes of their otherwise confused majority fellow gender mates.

This is in no disrespect to the majority women, but just a friendly reminder that they need to eat the humble pie and learn how to appreciate another individual. No point claiming you're all good and understanding as actions speak louder than words.

To the minority few….I salute you!

-The Man Who Sold The World-