Have A Nice Weekend...?

Actually, I despise it when people tell me… have a nice weekend… yeah right… what can I do in Pakistan? What on earth can I ever do here? Hike K2?

I mean, yeah fine… under normal circumstances in Pakistan, weekends are left to be weekends and you’ve got like 2 days off on Saturday and Sunday… you can walk around markets trying to shop for something… but in UFONE project where I am and what I am doing, there are no weekends. Saturday is a normal working day and Sunday… well, Sunday, makes me sad to say this but yes… I am at office as well. WHY…? You might ask? I am only here for 90 days and 90 days only. There is just so much to do with so little time. 90 days is not enough. There are five G+5 buildings for me to construct, 36 BSCs for me to manage… tens of people with an unfortunately-sad-to-say, ‘I don’t know’ attitude…. How to have a nice weekend?

In KL, Malaysia where I come from, I would have loved to hear those words. In fact, Wednesday onwards, I will be all geared up for Friday already. It does not mean that I don’t like my job but it’s a part of life… life in KL has evolved so much that it comes with it. Reminds me of those good times in the UK where people say, have a nice weekend and we really mean it. Holidays at every other weekend, weekend flights to Paris etc.

In Pakistan, dream on. People might look at it as… wow… you are really taking in the dough huh? …. Yeah rite… I wished I was… in fact I am. but where is the life? In this project, expectations will bring you misery. Therefore, a robotic response would see you through… as in, just work. It changed me a lot after being assigned to this project. I had no life here. When I returned to Malaysia, I was happy as hell… I was totally overjoyed… partying almost every night but I know I was over doing it. I know something had to change… I didn’t want to lose anything anymore. I know I was a changed man. I don’t want the project to change me anymore. I apologize to some whom I might have offended during this course of time… I know I did but I couldn’t help it. It was a difficult time. Now that I am back here, I am fearing that a relapse could happen. I am trying my best not to. No, I don’t wanna go insane and I don’t want to lose anything… I don’t want to lose you. Please help me to maintain my sanity.

Pakistani Woes...

Pakistan oh Pakistan…

I must say, its really an eye opener working with them. I had a lengthy discussion with a fellow colleague and we almost came to a similar conclusion… and its no wonder this country is still lacking far behind… at least 20 years back of Malaysia. To catch up? Yes… they can, but some serious mindsets needs to be changed. That’s for sure… yet, this certainty comes with no guarantee.

Most people that I am working with now have this attitude problem…. No, not with me but with the world. They tend to sit around and wait. For instance:

Me: IA, what about the issue in GJW BSC?
IA: Oh… that issue, I have already sent an email to the respective persons.
Me: Issue resolved now?
IA: I don’t know… I am still waiting for their reply…
Me: Huh???? *this guy will sit there for an entire day and will not know that the respective persons were on leave* why can’t you call them?
IA: Oh… Ok.
Me: Oh Ok????? is that it? that’s all you can tell me? you are a PM and you have sitted your ass on the chair for an hour and that’s the best answer you can produce for me??? for crying out fucking loud… don’t you think you can do better than that? you know it and I know it that it is almost improbable you will get any answer by sitting there!! Don’t you feel the need to know something instead of “I don’t know”????
IA: Ok. I will get on it.


Bottomline is, once is ok, twice is ok… but I feel as though my job as a PM is to educate another fellow PM on what he should be doing??!@#!? Don’t you think that’s a bit of a time waster? Why cant these people take the initiative to do something about it. don’t they feel the need to be certain? I have not only encountered this in this case but also for many many many other cases.


Have you been into TNT or DHL to send an express parcel that took almost 35 minutes?? It is supposed to be the most efficient postal company in the world and yet, to process some documents, they take 35 minutes!!


Next… there was a power shutdown in the office since morning, when I asked the guard whether he knew what was going on and when was power coming back, he shook his head saying, since morning no power, coming back at 5pm. I waited for 2 hours till 5 pm and still no power. I asked him again, he said I don’t know. I said fine, call the reception. He tells me he doesn’t have the number for reception and looks blankly at me. I said, find out and ask. He finds out, calls the reception and still gave me the same answer… I don’t know. It was 40oC outside and I was fuming already. I was at the 12th floor and I had to make him climb down all 12 floors by stairs and get me news on when power will be up because I cant wait any longer. Exhausted and panting after climbing 24 flights of stairs, he came to me and said, power will be up within 1 hour more. I asked him… definite? Or maybe? He didn’t know how to answer and was wanting to go down again and I told him… forget it.

It so hard asking this people to do shit… because they are so fond of using ‘I don’t know’ for an answer which supposedly means, lets’ wait and see. To me, I cant take “I don’t know” for an answer… and whoever works with me and crosses that line… he/ she had better watch it. I really cant tolerate it. therefore, to all Pakistanis… wake up, you are all still in slumberland… partake in your role and make it yours… I am sure somewhere in between, your passion is there. Bring it out and lets make our jobs easier.


Have you ever thought why your country is left so far behind? Think!

End of Week

The past week has been part of cleaning up shite left behind and part of tackling the project's shambles and lack of coordination. Now, its getting getting clearer and more obvious, that the project is totally screwed! Hence, with so many things happening for the past 1 or 2 weeks, tonight, I am going off early to get some rest, and have a movie marathon with Aszman. Its been a long time since I last sat down and have some time to myself. With a JD tonight... it would be fun and relaxing.

Truly, I want out from this company. I couldnt have imagined that my first project with the company would probably turn out to be the last one. I tried so hard to resist this thought and just get on with it but time and time again, management has given me no room for breather and on top of that, no support that I have been requesting for all the time. Its beginning to make me lose confidence in my role play in this project and to stop the slide, something has to be done. I cant let the company ruin what I've been trained to do. However, I must be grateful to them for gifting me the opportunity to step-start and learn more about the Chinese way of thinking and doing things.

Ciao...

Crisis Management in Pakistan

Well... looks like lady luck aint with me. Here's my posting first and foremost:

To any Pakistani (Islamabad) kind souls out there, I dont remember my wallet's whereabouts at all and I am in search of it. It would be a miracle and a kind gesture on your part to return it to me because I am stuck in a foreign land with nothing left... only about Rs35 left. I sincerely plead for the return of my wallet. Cash reward guaranteed. If there are any good samaritans in Pakistan, please call me at +923345149128. Thank you.

To any Malaysian or Thai samaritans out there, as explained in the above, I really have no recollection of the whereabouts of my wallet. It could be that I dropped it in Pakistan or the only place in Malaysia and Thailand I dropped it is in KLIA (28th March 2007) and the new airport in Thailand (28th March 2007). Please, be a kind soul and text me either at the number above or at +60125196836. I really have nothing left but everything in that wallet. Same rewards apply. Thank you.

It is a black Prada wallet.

It will be kinda tough for the next three months in Pakistan... without further a due... Plan B has to be put into place for Crisis Management.

Please, any kind soul out there...

19th - 25th March 2007 [The Amazing]

Amazing. I am not going to sound sheepish about it.

It has been the most wonderful week for me and I am glad, for it’s the end of a beginning towards an end of something else. To me, era una settimana perfetta! I had a chance to explore what KL was really made up of... something beyond me expectations, yet, in its own way distinct and special. I am really looking forward to this new assignment and extravagant interest.

Ristorante Ciao: assolutamente romantico, una notte da reminisce!

Perfecto.... Carpaccio Di Salmone E Zucchine with thin slices of home made marinated salmon served with garlic-mint marinated zucchini, capers and lemon dressing.

Tiffany's @ Starhill Gallery. The Jazz Stage is set for the romantic evening amidst the urban jungle of KL.

Tiff's: Serene and calm surroundings that will almost certain to mesmerize any patron...

Cool Ambience... totally absorbing and out of this world.... thanks Jerry!

Jazz songbird belting out yester year favorites. Bravo!...

What a cool way to soak in the moment...

Una notte da ricordarsi di

I'd like to think that its ok. Going back to Pakistan isnt the nicest of ideas. I looked back at the time when I first got to know I was headed to Pakistan for the first time back in October 2006, and compared to now, its a hell of a difference. I wasnt excited then, yet, was looking forward to it. Now, its neither, I just want to go back, finish up, pack my bags, and search for better opportunities. It's not working out as well as I hoped to be.

Exactly one more day, and I'll be leaving on a jet plane. Let's just keep it in perspective. I am beginning to miss everything that has started for it is not only the end but the beginning of better things to come. Fingers crossed!

Ciao Ciao...

Moodless in Ipoh

............................................................................

As Time Goes By (1942)

Casablanca - a conflict between, in the words of one's character, love and virtue.

"As Time Goes By"

You must remember this,

A kiss is just a kiss, a sigh is just a sigh.

The fundamental things apply

As time goes by.
And when two lovers woo They still say, "I love you."

On that you can rely,

No matter what the future brings

As time goes by.
Moonlight and Love songs, Never out of date.

Hearts full of passion, Jealousy and hate.

Woman needs man And man must have his mate

That no one can deny.
It's still the same old story

A fight for love and glory, A case of do or die.

The world will always welcome lovers

As time goes by.
Oh yes,

the world will always welcome lovers

As time goes by.

Casablanca is a 1942 movie set during World War II in the Vichy-controlled Moroccan city of Casablanca. The film was directed by Michael Curtiz, and stars Humphrey Bogart as Rick and Ingrid Bergman as Ilsa. It focuses on Rick's conflict between, in the words of one character, love and virtue: he must choose between his love for Ilsa and his need to do the right thing by helping her husband, Resistance hero Victor Laszlo, escape from Casablanca and continue his fight against the Nazis.

Its true. In present situation, it makes sense. Did you notice? I thought so... Thanks.

Brown Brothers 1999 Shiraz

Saturday nite fever with an Australian Shiraz 99. How good can it get?

It was almost to perfection. In a mellowish night with a passion for excitement, I figured Shiraz could possibly spice things up a bit. It did.

To make this low key, YES, I am returning to Pakistan in 2 weeks time. It has been decided amongst the retarded big shots. What I will do is, confirm my flight for return as well. End of June will be my return date. I am not entirely happy over it.

Damning Indecisiveness

Mr DZH, if you are reading this, FUCK you twice.
Mr WXD, if you are reading this, FUCK you Thrice!

Dear HW,

We are not muppets. We are human beings with flesh and blood. With feelings. Dont make me pull the plug. I will.

I am fed up with the game. I will leave and you will have nothing to say. Not even with a full blown counter package. You will not antagonize me. You will not reap a single sweat from me. You will not care too much because you have loads more at your disposal. To me, you can just fuck off and play your games with someone else! I really dont care anymore. So, if you are reading this again up to this point, FUCK YOU the forth and fifth time respectively.

Thank you.

Yours Honorary. Truly.

Impending Agitation

It has lapsed. There is still no catapultation to my urgency since last week to handover in the best possible fashion. No plans, no schedule, no urgency, no support. What is left? nada... it's beginning to leave a bad taste in my mouth.

Hence, officially, I am LOOKING. I dont want to be stuck in this domain. Its killing me slowly but surely.

On the other front, the CNY-Morning-After thingy is really getting to me already. My bones are cracking di... or am I getting old for all these? I can feel myself floating at times. Or is it getting far too boring already? 4 weeks since my return, I find myself in a very unfamiliar territory. Many things happened yet, many things didnt materialise. I want out!

Rum Jungle Ipoh

Entrance to Rum Jungle @ Sunway City Ipoh

It was hot out there @ Rum Jungle. Just one tip, if you are rooting for the home crowd pleaser, GET OUT of the place by 12am. From 9pm - 12pm, the band; Thunderstorm, is fantastic! In between intermissions, the deejay is absolutely out of this world, belting out Prince, A-Ha, Beach Boys, All Saints, Black Machine, Beastie Boyz, Warren G, Black Eyed Peas, Abba, George Michael, etc, you get what I mean... its absolutely fun! The place is so much bigger than the one in KL and of course, more happening! Pelak Mali Yob...

The band taking centrestage

Taken from the 2nd level skybridge

However, there are of course its setbacks. There are 3 DJs in rotation; 2 on the mainframe and another trainee DJ. There's one nicknamed 'Noise Machine'. He's good. The other one is a bit Ipoh Kai... he belts out most of the Chinese songs. His main problem is, he talks too much on the mic when he shouldnt. He should just let the music do the talking. His shift is from 12am onwards. The best night to go would be on Thursday nites when its Ladies Nite (I think). Phhwwoooaaar!


All in all, I would say this club is above average. I would give it a 70% mark. It does live up to its billing somehow. Another one would be Mike's Place's Vineyard, my second favourite hotspot for jazz enthusiasts. But Rum Jungle Ipoh... errrrmmm.... still new. One thing's for sure... it does draw in the crowd. Why not? Ample parking space >500 car park spaces, tight security and a good place for Ipohans to feel the almost-near-to-KL-vibe. Another reminder... patrons will need to pay cover charge OR buy drinks at the entrance after 9pm. Good in a way, good riddance to gate crashers. Another thing for sure, the rest of the clubs better buck up because Rum Jungle's car park is almost full every night. Take a load of that! ....

Week XVII: Happy Chinese New Year

Its been almost 1 month since I came back.
Its the first day of our Chinese New Year. It sure does feel good to be back.
Today is also the part where, my return to Pakistan has come to a grinding halt by my boss. I dont know if its a good thing or not but one thing's for sure, I dont mind. :-) Its still pending.

Anyway, Happy Chinese New Year!

Week XVI: The Countdown Begins, YET Again...

Week 16 has begun. Approximately 2 more weeks if I am lucky. Time for some pictorial review now that I have a wee bit time. Its been hectic but fun!

Winter & Solitude in Pakistan... ahhh, the cruces of life.

Murree Hills: Adaptation of a nomenclature for memories left behind
but shall never be lost in time.

Lahore Fort: Through the lenses and senses of impeccable solitude amidst the grand architecture, you can almost feel humbled with its heyday greatness.

Lahore Fort: True tranquility

Its almost easy to forget its been 2 weeks... 2 Weeks of topsy turvy non stop fun and contemplation. I can't start to imagine how it'd be back to Pakistan. I am sure it takes time and all's well. Can I afford not to? Pictures above paints a roseate setting. Far from the truth, its hard to imagine further but one thing's for sure, I am not stopping the party times till the very end! Heh! ....

Week XV: Ending Week XV

I am fine.

First of all, Congratulations on MS. Its your dream come true.

Secondly, I did not do anything to mold you to who you are now. You are what you are based on your true grit, confidence, determination and self motivation. You deserve it fully.

On another note, time flies. Soon, its back to nitty gritty of Pakiland. Better start my preparation now but before that, let's have fun guys!

Week XV: First Home Base

Sitted at Starbucks on a beautiful Sunday morning, this is the first real taste of relaxation under the account of my own space since I returned home. I have longed for these Sundays for a very very long time. No work, no stress, no pressure, no work related phone calls, no disturbances, no mind boggling plans, NOTHING! Under a makeshift palm tree at Starbucks Ipoh, with earplugs and songs of solitude, I can at least watch the world go by without a single worry! This feels good. In Pakistan, all these were non-existent and it was harsh reality the first day I was there. Foregoing all that I have been so used to wasn't easy but I guess its all part of the game plan for me to appreciate all that I have left behind 3 months ago.

People here are curious to know what I am smiling about with my Mocha Frap with Java chips as I am lounged on a comfy chair with my legs on the other in a sunbathing position, blogging my way out, and doing whatever I GOD damn feel is of due time. I am not going to even think about my return flight back to Pakistan for now. All I am more interested now is to ease up and chill.

Pakistan, in all its might, is Malaysia 30 years back in terms of conservativeness and structural splendour. However, all is not lost, some progress is better than none. Not too bad a place to work in, that is in Islamabad ONLY, the rest are a bit way behind. Being there has taught me loads and I am not going to deny that. Having been to numerous cities in AP and EU, I have come back to learn more and more on how to appreciate my own country. Most dont know that. Many take it for granted... the part which I hate to admit, is part of the Malaysian 'bo chap' attitude. Of course its sad but this is the way it is unfortunately. Malaysia is truly gifted!

The sun is beginning to set and as I look up to the horizon, I feel a sense of declaration proclaiming my sanity to the world. After a week of madness in KL, its all superlified cool in Ipoh. Trust me, its easy to forget the project on the other side of the world. I am immersed in a total hibernation mode now. :-)

More laters... let me enjoy the moment.