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Events Planner Defined In need of a magic wand...badly. And a solo trip. 📷: www
Chin Up, Look Up Chin up, look up, even when the odds are stacked against you. Chin up, look up, for there are treasures that lies above you.
Chingay 2019. Never thought I will be doing this for the fourth time. This year not only with brothers from @nadisingapura but also with representatives from ITE College Central Batidas Centro, ITE College East Soul Percussion and SMU Rentak.
Meanwhile at the parade ground…
While waiting for our segments: pre-carnival and behind the scenes…
Chingay 2019 – The Fourth Time Chingay 2019. Never thought I will be doing this for the fourth time. This year not only with brothers from
Library Etiquette
My bliss of silence while reading and enjoying this view was shortlived when a group of upper secondary school students (five of them, three boys with long pants and two girls, no idea which school they were from) sat right in front of me and chat non-stop. Chatters aside (which irritates the heck out of me), the choice of language is 🤦🏽♀️🤦🏽♀️🤦🏽♀️ (where every other word is a profanity…
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It’s been awhile since I took a day trip to Johor. Usually would drive in on a Saturday morning with family to our usual spots but since I don’t have anything much on my plate at the moment, thought of exploring Johor on a weekday.
Woodlands Checkpoint and the KTM Ride Been hearing from friends on the convenience of taking the train (KTM) from Singapore to Johor. It was very convenient and the ride only took 5 mins. Advisable to book the ticket online (website: http://www.ktmtrain.com/) in advanced. Never have thought that it will be crowded on a Monday morning.
Singapore to Johor The nearest MRT station to Woodlands Checkpoint is Marsiling station. Take 856 (from the bus stop opposite Marsiling station) and it is only three bus stops away. Don’t worry if you are unsure on where to alight, you will be able to spot the train tracks on the left (after it turns at Marsiling Park bus stop), plus, I reckon regardless of the time, there will always be people alighting at the checkpoint bus stop.
Will need to validate the online ticket purchased at the KTM ticketing office (first floor). After validation, can either wait at the waiting area of the ticketing office or proceed to wait/queue at second floor. If travelling with kids or the elderly, strongly advise to proceed straight to the second floor (seats are available).
Immigration clearance was a breeze. Cleared both Singapore and Malaysia Immigration before boarding the train at Woodlands Checkpoint itself! Was pleasantly surprised that despite the need to select the seats during the online purchase, the train ride was actually free seating.
Johor to Singapore The return ticket from Johor to Singapore need not be validated – went straight to the ticketing counter upon arrival at Johor and was informed that the printed copy of the ticket suffice.
Advisable to be early as queue starts to form early. Cleared Malaysian immigration before boarding the train in Johor and cleared Singapore immigration upon arrival at Woodlands Checkpoint. Instead of going through the automated machine (there were only three machines and the queue was very long), best to go through manual clearance at the booth – it was much faster!
Since heading back to Marsiling station to have dinner at Fatty Bom Bom, took 950 from the same bus stop that we alighted – and it is only four bus stops away.
Jalan Dhoby Again been hearing from friends and also online posts about this street – to see what’s the hype. We were there about noon and most of the cafe/shops were not opened. Some that were listed on online websites were no longer in operation.
IT Roo Cafe Address: 17 Jalan Dhoby, Johor Bahru Operating hours: 1200noon – 9.30pm
Thumbs up! Both the Grilled Chicken Chop (RM16) and the Fried Chicken Chop (RM16) are very well seasoned that can eat it on its own without the mushroom sauce (the other option is the black pepper sauce). Plus, what’s not to like about real fried (non-frozen) potato wedges? What I love about this cafe is the rustic old-school charm. I do wonder about the tribute to the late Princess Diana though. It was crowded with the lunch crowd and yet the service and turnover is fast. They served both western and local dishes and noticed that the servings for the local dishes are quite substantial.
Flowers in the Window Address: 9 Jalan Dhoby, Johor Bahru Operating Hours: Mon, Wed-Sun 10.00am-8.00pm. Closed on Tues
Menu at Flowers in the Window are rather interesting. I am assuming that the ingredients used are to complement the garden-themed cafe. Loved the drinks. Both the Thymes Lemonade (RM15.90) and the homemade herb and spice infused syrup of Basil, Green Apple, Salt, Lemon and Cucumber (RM12.90) are very refreshing especially on a very hot Monday afternoon but detoxifying after a sinful lunch (leave it to your imagination). The Matcha Tahini cake (RM9.40) was rather disappointing – too dry and crumbly. Unsure if it’s a day old. It was a Monday afternoon, hence not much crowd and they only had three cakes on display. The other two was the Purple Carrot Cake and Earl Grey Lavender Cake.
Salahuddin Bakery Address: 26 Jalan Dhoby, Johor Bahru
This bakery is just opposite IT Roo Cafe and they sell practically everything – from sugar buns to sardine/chicken karipap to plain buns, cream hornes…everything. This bakery somewhat reminded me of Onan Road Karipap (aka Indian Muslim Bakery & Confectionary). Was tempted to buy the karipap and the plain bread but decided not to (afraid that all be squashed when I’m back in Singapore).
Komtar JBCC and JB City Square This Komtar was totally a refurbished Komtar. It is like a high-end but not so high-end mall.
JB City Square has changed alot since I was there many years ago. Missed the rojak stall, MarryBrown and a cafe that sells Portugese Egg Tart. The best find was this quote on the wall of the foodcourt at City Square.
Since the shopping centres are just like any other shopping centres with the same shops, but were buzzing with activities and Chinese New Year decorations, decided to park ourselves at Old Town White Coffee while waiting for our train back to Singapore.
Dinner at Fatty Bom Bom (Marsiling) Pre-planned to have dinner at Fatty Bom Bom since we took the 7pm train from Johor to Singapore. Ordered the Supreme Burger (SGD10.90) and two words – FOOD COMA.
As much as I love that it is handmade patty, mine was slightly overdone and the sauce was a bit too sweet for me. The buns were over-charred (which I totally don’t mind) and have a slight burnt taste. Would not rule out this place as yet.
As it is now convenient to go to Johor via train, will definitely go back there again. Perhaps the next round will spend a night there so that I could explore other parts of Johor.
Day Trip to Johor Bahru – 21 Jan It's been awhile since I took a day trip to Johor. Usually would drive in on a Saturday morning with family to our usual spots but since I don't have anything much on my plate at the moment, thought of exploring Johor on a weekday.
My Wish for You in 2019 "I wish for you to become RICH. To be the example for others. I wish for you to become a shining example.
2018 – will be gone in few hours. I am one who don’t believe in setting new year resolutions/goals for I am a believer that every year is a new chapter and that one need goals (either short-term or long-term) as a sense of direction. Each year to begin with a new, blank slate and the past year not only serve as a memory but lessons learnt and takeaways as self-development.
Despite the unknown, fears and uncharted territories being a full-time freelance in 2018, I had been blessed with the projects/work that I did and the people that I had met. I admit that not all are rosy – there were disappointments, frustrations, feeling overwhelmed and “what did I get myself into” moments.
I still have no regrets leaving the corporate world after more than 15 years. The journey of being a freelance has been both fulfilling and challenging. It gave me a different appreciation and perspective. No job is superior than another. No one is superior than another. Regardless of the nature of a job or how much you are being paid, teamwork, responsibility, accountability and most importantly mutual respect need to be understood and internalised. Title is not an entitlement, bait in power play or abused authority. That last statement applies to everyone everywhere – either as a freelance or working in the corporate world.
These are my highlights and takeaways for 2018 projects:
Glam Theatre Musical – Where My Heart and Guts Has Never Been Tested So Much 1 – 4 Feb, Gateway Theatre Blackbox Stage Manager
Murphy came and never left since the day we started rehearsals in 2017, bumped-in till the day we strike out. Without fail, every day (and at each show) there was an incident – from technical to performers and crew welfare.
Despite the challenges throughout the whole process (on the toes was an understatement for this one), blessed to be part of this and have a team that supports each other. This production tested my knowledge, patience and capability not only as a Stage Manager but also as a Production Manager (the unofficial title).
True Colours Festival – Where I Stood in Awe 19 Feb – 29 Mar Project Coordinator
One of my most fulfilling and humbling project, thus far. The three-day True Colours Festival concert at Singapore Indoor Stadium and outdoor Festival Village from 23 – 25 Mar is truly inspiring. These are the days where I stood in awe, lost for words on the feast of talents right before my teary eyes. These talented artistes with disabilities proved that nothing is impossible.
No words could describe the learning process/journey working with new and familiar faces. Unfortunately, this was the project that I had one of my disappointments (managing childish dramas and power play was mentally exhausting) while working with familiar faces and also proved the importance of team work and mutual respect. This was also the project that I did a lot of reflections and keep asking myself if I could handle some situations differently.
Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA) – Where I Worked with Legends 29 Apr – 10 May Artist Liaison Officer (ALO) – Toshi Reagon
For the past 12 years as an ALO, this is the longest stint with a single artiste. Learnt so much (plus interesting conversations) not only from Toshi but also with Michelle Dorrance as well as from the cast, musicians and crew from both Parable of the Sower and The Blues Project. Both shows were awesome and all the casts are so cool and talented.
These two legends are humble and passionate in their works which is rather lacking in some of those who had just started out.
Project Coordinator – Where I Did Everything And Anything 15 Jun – 3 Dec
This was with a creative agency and easily explained in point form (non-exhaustive): 1) Installation/set-up of booth, windows display at wee hours 2) Client brand activation roadshow 3) Provide secretarial service for client at trade event 4) Numerous online search for various items – from blue coloured candies/wrappers, to nuts, to balloons, to sequins, baubles, etc 5) Numerous trips to Arab Street, Chinatown, DIY shops, SKP, Art Friend etc 6) Submission of various and numerous forms for permit to work (PTW) at various shopping malls 7) People management 8) Time management
This 7 months contract work was really an eye opener. It gave me access to various types of work that happens in the wee hours that we don’t get to see. It gave me a different appreciation and a lot of hand-on experience to various types of set-ups and window display work (both in the planning and installation). I had done corporate events during my full-time stints but I was on the client side. Being on vendor side, well, gave me a balanced perspective. Clients need to understand that vendors do have a life and regardless how much the contract is worth, vendors should not be mistreated or available 24/7. And vendors, need to learn to say ‘no’ and/or manage expectations.
One of the things I enjoyed doing is the research and recce – both online and in person. Brought me to places that I never knew and been before. There are things and places that you don’t know that you don’t know.
The challenges that I continue to grapple with is the time and people management. I always believe in respecting one’s time (either own or others). It takes a lot to manage external client but it takes a lot more to manage internal client. No one should be taken for granted. Age or lack of experience is not an excuse to shrug off accountability. Failing to plan is planning to fail – a principle that I hold on very strongly thanks to my project management background.
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The Tell-A-Tell of Faith in Fatih – Where I Push Myself 15 Dec, Gateway Theatre Auditorium Performer – Percussion
As per my previous post – this was a four months crash course. With limited music/percussion background, learning 13 songs and playing six different traditional drums/instruments was totally unexpected and a huge achievement.
I did it not because of personal glory but it was a self-test and self-development. This is “what did I get myself into” moment. And I was invited back to be part of the musical on end June. Excited and nervous!
Rather interesting that I started the year at Gateway Theatre Blackbox and ended the year at Gateway Theatre Auditorium. Best part is that it was the same crew and they remembered me (don’t know if it’s a good thing or a bad thing).
2018 has been a year of self-discovery, self-reflection and pushing of boundaries (some I shared above, if I were to share all, it will be a super long post). 2019 is going to be an exciting year and another year of a lot of unknowns. Apart from a client activation work in early Jan, Chingay 2019 in Feb, Mascot Minder till end April and Faith in Fatih Musical end June, my calendar is still pretty open (I know being thick-skinned by self-promoting). I am actively looking for projects as a freelance as well as on contract basis. Been asked recently if I would consider going back to the corporate world/work full time. If the conditions are right, I might consider.
Have a blessed and fruitful 2019 wherever you are! I am going to start my 2019 with an open mind and a new slate for I am still learning. What about you?
Wrapping Up 2018 – Takeaways 2018 - will be gone in few hours. I am one who don't believe in setting new year resolutions/goals for I am a believer that every year is a new chapter and that one need goals (either short-term or long-term) as a sense of direction.
2018 – will be gone in few hours. I am one who don’t believe in setting new year resolutions/goals for I am a believer that every year is a new chapter and that one need goals (either short-term or long-term) as a sense of direction. Each year to begin with a new, blank slate and the past year not only serve as a memory but lessons learnt and takeaways as self-development.
Despite the unknown, fears and uncharted territories being a full-time freelance in 2018, I had been blessed with the projects/work that I did and the people that I had met. I admit that not all are rosy – there were disappointments, frustrations, feeling overwhelmed and “what did I get myself into” moments.
I still have no regrets leaving the corporate world after more than 15 years. The journey of being a freelance has been both fulfilling and challenging. It gave me a different appreciation and perspective. No job is superior than another. No one is superior than another. Regardless of the nature of a job or how much you are being paid, teamwork, responsibility, accountability and most importantly mutual respect need to be understood and internalised. Title is not an entitlement, bait in power play or abused authority. That last statement applies to everyone everywhere – either as a freelance or working in the corporate world.
These are my highlights and takeaways for 2018 projects:
Glam Theatre Musical – Where My Heart and Guts Has Never Been Tested So Much 1 – 4 Feb, Gateway Theatre Blackbox Stage Manager
Murphy came and never left since the day we started rehearsals in 2017, bumped-in till the day we strike out. Without fail, every day (and at each show) there was an incident – from technical to performers and crew welfare.
Despite the challenges throughout the whole process (on the toes was an understatement for this one), blessed to be part of this and have a team that supports each other. This production tested my knowledge, patience and capability not only as a Stage Manager but also as a Production Manager (the unofficial title).
True Colours Festival – Where I Stood in Awe 19 Feb – 29 Mar Project Coordinator
One of my most fulfilling and humbling project, thus far. The three-day True Colours Festival concert at Singapore Indoor Stadium and outdoor Festival Village from 23 – 25 Mar is truly inspiring. These are the days where I stood in awe, lost for words on the feast of talents right before my teary eyes. These talented artistes with disabilities proved that nothing is impossible.
No words could describe the learning process/journey working with new and familiar faces. Unfortunately, this was the project that I had one of my disappointments (managing childish dramas and power play was mentally exhausting) while working with familiar faces and also proved the importance of team work and mutual respect. This was also the project that I did a lot of reflections and keep asking myself if I could handle some situations differently.
Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA) – Where I Worked with Legends 29 Apr – 10 May Artist Liaison Officer (ALO) – Toshi Reagon
For the past 12 years as an ALO, this is the longest stint with a single artiste. Learnt so much (plus interesting conversations) not only from Toshi but also with Michelle Dorrance as well as from the cast, musicians and crew from both Parable of the Sower and The Blues Project. Both shows were awesome and all the casts are so cool and talented.
These two legends are humble and passionate in their works which is rather lacking in some of those who had just started out.
Project Coordinator – Where I Did Everything And Anything 15 Jun – 3 Dec
This was with a creative agency and easily explained in point form (non-exhaustive): 1) Installation/set-up of booth, windows display at wee hours 2) Client brand activation roadshow 3) Provide secretarial service for client at trade event 4) Numerous online search for various items – from blue coloured candies/wrappers, to nuts, to balloons, to sequins, baubles, etc 5) Numerous trips to Arab Street, Chinatown, DIY shops, SKP, Art Friend etc 6) Submission of various and numerous forms for permit to work (PTW) at various shopping malls 7) People management 8) Time management
This 7 months contract work was really an eye opener. It gave me access to various types of work that happens in the wee hours that we don’t get to see. It gave me a different appreciation and a lot of hand-on experience to various types of set-ups and window display work (both in the planning and installation). I had done corporate events during my full-time stints but I was on the client side. Being on vendor side, well, gave me a balanced perspective. Clients need to understand that vendors do have a life and regardless how much the contract is worth, vendors should not be mistreated or available 24/7. And vendors, need to learn to say ‘no’ and/or manage expectations.
One of the things I enjoyed doing is the research and recce – both online and in person. Brought me to places that I never knew and been before. There are things and places that you don’t know that you don’t know.
The challenges that I continue to grapple with is the time and people management. I always believe in respecting one’s time (either own or others). It takes a lot to manage external client but it takes a lot more to manage internal client. No one should be taken for granted. Age or lack of experience is not an excuse to shrug off accountability. Failing to plan is planning to fail – a principle that I hold on very strongly thanks to my project management background.
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
The Tell-A-Tell of Faith in Fatih – Where I Push Myself 15 Dec, Gateway Theatre Auditorium Performer – Percussion
As per my previous post – this was a four months crash course. With limited music/percussion background, learning 13 songs and playing six different traditional drums/instruments was totally unexpected and a huge achievement.
I did it not because of personal glory but it was a self-test and self-development. This is “what did I get myself into” moment. And I was invited back to be part of the musical on end June. Excited and nervous!
Rather interesting that I started the year at Gateway Theatre Blackbox and ended the year at Gateway Theatre Auditorium. Best part is that it was the same crew and they remembered me (don’t know if it’s a good thing or a bad thing).
2018 has been a year of self-discovery, self-reflection and pushing of boundaries (some I shared above, if I were to share all, it will be a super long post). 2019 is going to be an exciting year and another year of a lot of unknowns. Apart from a client activation work in early Jan, Chingay 2019 in Feb, Mascot Minder till end April and Faith in Fatih Musical end June, my calendar is still pretty open (I know being thick-skinned by self-promoting). I am actively looking for projects as a freelance as well as on contract basis. Been asked recently if I would consider going back to the corporate world/work full time. If the conditions are right, I might consider.
Have a blessed and fruitful 2019 wherever you are! I am going to start my 2019 with an open mind and a new slate for I am still learning. What about you?
Wrapping Up 2018 – Takeaways 2018 - will be gone in few hours. I am one who don't believe in setting new year resolutions/goals for I am a believer that every year is a new chapter and that one need goals (either short-term or long-term) as a sense of direction.
Safety First
This was on a paid shuttle service to one of our major attractions earlier this afternoon. This shuttle is an outsourced provider as it is not the official shuttle (the official shuttle is decorated with the attraction ads). It is a 40 seater coach with a luggage compartment underneath.
I was appalled when I board the bus and saw this (was last few to board the bus and had to stand). I wondered:
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A Faith. A Crash Course.
A Faith. A Crash Course.
When I was asked by NADI Singapura Co-Founder & Artistic Director, RidUan Zalani to be part of Faith in Fatih in August, I thought I would be doing my usual stage management role as per previous productions. Never have I expected that I will be asked to be on stage alongside the talented brothers & sisters of NADI Singapura.
Despite being onstage numerous times for dance showcase, theatre or even…
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Geography and Currency Lessons...Please
Geography and Currency Lessons…Please
While queuing at a money changer, standing in front of a young couple who are university students based on their other conversations, who also don’t know the basic concept of personal space plus volume control…
Boy: Frankfurt where, Russia ah? Girl: (hesitation) Hmm… Yeah (silence) Boy: What’s the difference between Chinese dollars and Chinese Renmenbi? Girl: Read somewhere that there is a…
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When the nephew had a sudden craving for breaded fried chicken & roasted potatoes... #friedchicken #friedchickenwings #friedchickendrumsticks #deepfriedchicken #potatoes #roastedpotatoes #roastedsweetpotatoes #homecook #homemade #cookfortheday https://www.instagram.com/p/Br2RmGvBeJM/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1uthlyi5p3cif
The Tell-A-Tale of Faith in Fatih
10 days till the full concert. These are just snippets of the instruments and talents on one stage for one night only. Honoured to be on stage with these talented individuals from Nadi Singapura instead of my usual stage management duties. The concert will showcase various traditional Malayan drums/instruments and will feature upcoming talented guest artistes:
1) Rose Handayani of Gamelan…
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Ichikokudo Hokkaido Ramen
Just like any other newly Halal certified restaurant, the queue at Ichikokudo was long and the waiting time on this Saturday night was about 30 minutes. I made reservations and recommend to do so especially if you are planning to go there on weekends and/or with big groups. Noticed that they are also shorthanded which does not help with the weekend dining crowd.
Was looking forward to the meal…
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Friday Motivational Quote + Note to Self A different perspective...hahaha. Photo: www
Fortunate to be at ION Sky this morning to catch this beautiful sunrise and view after the rain for client’s media launch for their upcoming Christmas promotion.
Admission ticket is redeemable via ION mobile app for every $20 spent.
Spending $20 to catch the sunset? I think it may be worth it as well.
A Beautiful Morning from ION Sky Fortunate to be at ION Sky this morning to catch this beautiful sunrise and view after the rain for client's media launch for their upcoming Christmas promotion.
Bohemian Rhapsody
Even when you are in the movie theatre, you can still lip sync, stomp your feet and/or head bang. Trust me if the others are a Queen fan and/or Bohemian Rhapsody is one of their favourite songs and/or appreciates the message behind the movie, they won’t stop you and perhaps may do the same.
The movie, Bohemian Rhapsody is truly brilliant. Depicts the life of legends and clearly shows that…
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