Maybank blunder yet again

Update:
Gloria called me up and said the money was refunded on Wednesday evening itself. Today she was rather chirpy and nice. Hmm... well thank you Maybank for returning back MY money.

I am seriously getting sick and tired of Maybank now. Once upon a time, they screwed up my bill payment. Now they are screwing with my money.

Yesterday I withdrew RM 300 from account at Kelana Jaya ATM. The money did not came out from the dispenser. Then I check on my account. RM 300 was deducted. It happen before, and they manage to refund me but this was like 5 years. So I was not too worried and filed in a complain.

I called up this lady Gloria and she told me that her report is fine and they don't need to refund me. What the hell? I said yeah, my account was deducted but the money did not come out. Of course your report will look ok. They are sending this issue to the ATM vendor. My God, I can't believe this. Its very simple

1. Why would I want to cheat Maybank RM 300 when I have more than that in my account. You think I go no better things to do in life? I am a honest person.
2. Simple logic, if the report say X amount of cash was withdrawn on that day, compare against the cash that is in the dispenser say Y. Take Y - X, I am sure there will be extra RM 300.
3. There are few bloody CCTV all around the ATM, check lah and see whether I actually absconded the cash.
4. Lastly make Police report lah, that I cheated Maybank. I am willing to take the lie detector test. If I pass, I am suing Maybank RM 1,000,300 for making false accusation, humiliation and distress.
   

Bloody hell. I am moving to CIMB or Al-Rajhi.

A "Happy" golfer

I just purchased a Happy mobile package for RM 5. Now I can talk for up to 45 minutes at only RM 0.99. How cool is that? For more information check out www.happy.com.my.

My Happy Prepaid

I started my new year resolution ahead of schedule. Had my first try out of golf today. I got a friend to teach me the ropes a bit. First day was not too bad, I managed to keep my golf club intact in my hand. I also managed to hit it right a few times. With more practices, I should be able to take on Tiger Woods

I really like the watch

2007 is coming to a close

Time to reflect over the year. What has happen? Unfortunately I don't keep a diary, maybe I should. What did I accomplish this year?

• Celebrated the new year in a foreign country
• Promoted to COO role
• Learned how to swim
• Celebrated Songkran in Thailand!
• Bought my first PDA phone after years of dreaming
• Bought my first foreign car.... but for my wife
  
• Bought my first golf set

Hmm.... exciting but nothing really great. These days 18 years olds are accomplishing for more things. OK time for 2008 resolution.

• Travel to Europe, Egypt, Maldives, Bali and Australia.
• Learn to scuba dive
• Play golf actively
• To swim actively
• Start a diary
• To have a body like a Spartan
• Read a book a month
• Learn another language
• Try karaoke
  
• Achieve my financial target
• Maybe do my MBA
• etc....
  

Check out http://www.43things.com/ if you are pondering about your future as well.

PC Fair

PIKOM PC Fair is back. I need few things, so I head down to KL Convention Center. I parked my car in Avenue K and made my way to KLCC. I didn't know exactly how to get to KL Convention Center, but then I use the technique called "Follow the herd of nerds". This kinda PC fair is a nerd magnet center. How to spot one?

• Skinny pale looking youth with spectacles
• Over sized t-shirts and jeans
  
• Must carry a knapsack
• Must be in a group of 5 or more all looking as listed above
• No offense, but its really true.

Its was really crowded as if it was another BERSIH event. The hall is quite large and split into 2 section. I didn't realise that I was shopping for about 3 hours until my back pain was acting up again. I got some good buy I hope. I bought

• Canon laser printer - RM 350
  
• 160 GB external HDD - RM 270
• A bulky weird looking mouse - Microsoft Natural Wireless Laser Mouse - RM 290 (This mouse suppose to help my wrist, but it seems to be making it worse. And the bloody receiver is huge - bad buy)

Not so ergonomic

• Total - RM 910. ouch..... getting deeper into debt.

A word of advise - never bring your plastic into this kindda place.

Disaster - I dropped my Dopod

I just dropped my 9 month old Dopod 838 Pro. I was just finish talking and was juggling around with my letters in the other hand and ooops... it slipped and crashed hard on a concrete cement. The cracking sound didn't sound nice. As I picked it up, I saw similar to what we often see in a dark storm - lightings streaking across. My LCD is cracked. The touch screen is not working anymore.

A badly bruised PDA phone..

The problem with this Dopod model is its quite slippery. Maybe that's the reason why HTC TyTN II has a rubber grip around the phone for better gripping. Read it here.

Rubber grip

Sob sob... my baby is injured. Now there is only 2 choice. Either I get a new phone - the HTC :) or get it repaired. I hope it will not cost that much to fix it. I will be the first person tomorrow at SIS office. Sending the phone for a major facelift.

Amazing Race Asia 2

All images are from http://amazing-race-asia.axn-asia.com/

I am watching the Amazing Race Asia 2 now. This show is a special preview of all the racers who managed to be selected into the race. One thing is really evident is in order to be selected IMHO, you need to have the following criteria:-

• Pan-Asia look
• You have higher chances if you have Caucasian blood or look like one
  
• Good looking as in model kindda look
• You/your spouse/family/friend preferable should be born outside from the country your applying. Ex. Applicant from Malaysia, but was born in Australia.
  
• You have higher chances if you are slim, fit or muscular
  
• You have higher chances if you are/were/was Miss World/Model/Actress/Actor ...

Looking at the list above, I am definitely out. Talk about discrimination, but then again this is show biz. The word Asia should be removed.

Facebook

I tried to resist as much as possible to not join any social networking tool. Yes, I am anti-social. But unfortunately, my friend cunningly sneaked me into joining Facebook. I am one thing to say, it's impressive.


Everybody that lives on earth is in Facebook including your neighbour's cat, ok I am exaggerating it. But seriously, its like everyone is in it. I made contact with friends that I haven't spoke or seen in 2 years. It's great, but in the same time you get to see others whom you don't want to see and as well you don't want them to see you either. :)

Its just a fad, similar to Friendster and Myspace. But truly its a great tool to keep in touch with long lost friends. Now you have a excuse to not call your friends, "Why never call ah? Haiya, I saw you yesterday is FB mah..... i sent you a gift some more, what more you what!?"

Selamat Hari Raya

Its a little late, but better late than never. Selamat Hari Raya from Penang on HSDPA. I am lucky that Penang or at least where I am is covered by Maxis 3.5G.

Traffic on NSE was bearable this year, but I had to endure the entire 300 KM journey under heavy rain. Nuts..

Raya was mostly spending visiting, watching movie and shopping! My bro-in-law was around, so takdalah boring sangat. This leave is long overdue and I am just going to be a lazy and useless couch potato until works start. I know tons of stuff is waiting for me in KL, so better take the chance now...

Since I am on leave, I took the chance to try out Celebrity Fitness in Gurney Plaza. Will blog later about it, but I seriously thinking of taking up their Diamond Program. Although I will still maintain FF, but not for long.

No idea, what else to blog. Chow.

Back from Brunei

Image from giftrap.com, no pics from me.

I was in Brunei for a business trip. It was a one and the half day trip, so lets sum up:-

• I stayed in Palm Garden hotel. Nice hotel and just beside it is Fitness Zone. Its equivalent to Fitness First here and its 3 storey tall. No time to try it out...
  
• Brunei is not what I expected it to be. I thought as a oil-rich country, everything would be modern. Airport suxs, the surrounding area is like Kuala Terengganu. At least their highway is toll free.
• Food is lousy but cheap. I had a small buffet for BND 8.
  
• DVD is exceptionally cheap here. Only BND 2 and damn clear.
  
• The most "sakit hati" part is their cars. Cars are dirt cheap here. Vios goes for BND 19,000 and a BMW 5 series is BND 60,000. They drive all kindda cars, Lexus, Toyota, Honda, Daihatsu and etc. I did see few Protons going around. Losers...
• Imagine government officers in Brunei driving BMW Z3, Lexus, Mitsubishi and Cefiro. Anyone doing that in Msia is asking for an appointment with ACA.
  
• Petrol is so cheap here that the Brunei ppl we asked didn't even know the price. Murah bah...
• During fasting month, the government office here close at 2 PM, but most of them leave at 12.30 pm. Unbelievable.
  
• Crime rate is low. People are not afraid of leaving their laptops in the car. In KL, within 5 minutes, its gone.
  
• Chicks... hmm.. subjective... KL got better selections.
  

Palace - Picture we took in Brunei

Nothing much in Brunei except the dome of their national mosque is made in gold!

Ramadhan 1428H

Puasa, apart from fasting is to control all other activities that will nullified your fasting. Lets see what happen on the first day of fasting

• Early morning, I had to be part of a some gossiping. Luckily I left early. Minus point
• Had to lie in the meeting that I was from a different company. Minus point ke?
  
• Resist all temptation to look at sexy women.
  
• While driving, resist all temptation to curse other drivers.
• While crossing the road, a driver nearly ran over me. Had to resist to not show the middle finger.
• All day, resist all negative thoughts about other people.
  

By end of the day, I am not sure how well I fared. Its a challenge to be a patient person in KL. But just to look at the situation, if this was not Ramadhan, boy, I would have collected quite number sins. How well did you do?

Telekom Malaysia Makan Duit

I am reposting an email communication from TM on TMNET refund.

---

Dear Mr. Ganee{omitted},

Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.

We write in response to your complaint at TMpoint Plaza Kelana Jaya dated 16th August 2007 pertaining to the matter above.

We refer to your refund request of RM 69.65, kindly be informed that upon checking in our system, we found that your card has expired and the account was closed on 30th July 2005.

Please note that after checking with related department, they have confirmed that they are unable to process your request as the refund of prepaid card is only considered valid if there was damage or error on that card.

Due to that, we are sorry to inform you that we are unable to process your request due to above reason.

Should you require further assistance or would like to submit any enquiry / feedback, kindly visits www.tm.net.my and click ?Need Help? Contact our Customer Service?.

Thank you.


Regards,
Noorliza Binti Noordin,
Customer Care Support, Internet Services,
Customer Service Management,
TM Retail

www.tm.net.my

(ICOMS#6289337-368285)


-----Previous Response-----
Sent: Sunday, August 19, 2007 5:08 PM
To: {omitted}
Subject: transfer credited amount to other streamyx account

Dear Mr. Ganee{omitted},

Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.

We write in response to your complaint at TMpoint Plaza Kelana Jaya dated 16th August 2007 pertaining to the matter above.

We refer to your request, kindly be informed that we have forwarded this matter to the relevant department to proceed with further investigation. For the time being, they are conducting a thorough investigation. We highly appreciate your co-operation to give us some time for this and we will do our best to resolve this matter. Once there is feedback, we will update you.

Should you require further assistance or would like to submit any enquiry / feedback, kindly visits www.tm.net.my and click ?Need Help? Contact our Customer Service?.

Thank you.


Regards,
Noorliza Binti Noordin,
Customer Care Support, Internet Services,
Customer Service Management,
TM Retail

www.tm.net.my


-----Previous Response-----
Sent: Friday, August 17, 2007 4:08 PM
To:{omitted}
Subject: transfer credited amount to other streamyx account

Kepada Encik Ganee{omitted},

Terima kasih di atas maklumbalas anda. TMpoint Kelana Jaya telah mengajukan kes anda untuk perhatian kami. Kami memohon maaf diatas kelewatan membalas maklumbalas ini.

Berhubung dengan pertanyaan anda mengenai bil, kam ingin memaklumkan bahawa pihak kami telah menghantar pertanyaan anda mengenai bil kepada Bahagian Pengebilan kami untuk bantuan selanjutnya.

Pihak Pengebilan kami akan menghubungi pihak anda setelah siasatan telah selesai. Kami memohon maaf di atas kesulitan yang dihadapi dan sokongan yang diberikan amat dihargai.

Sekiranya terdapat sebarang pertanyaan atau maklum balas, sila layari laman web www.tm.net.my dan klik "Need Help? Contact our Customer Service".

Kami berharap agar sentiasa dapat memberikan perkhidmatan yang terbaik.


Yang benar,
Suria
Customer Care Support, Internet Services,
Customer Service Management,
TM Retail.

www.tm.net.my


-----Original Message-----
From: Ganee{omitted}
Sent: Thursday, August 16, 2007 2:08 PM
Subject: transfer credited amount to other streamyx account

---

I don't remember slotting the prepaid card into the modem in order to use the internet. I don't even remember closing the account. If the card is expired and I lose my balance, then why did your customer support ask me to file a refund?

Ohh well, knowing TM, its an uphill battle and I am tired.

TM, you guys surely dah makan duit orang sebelum ni... takpa lah... makan lah RM 69.65 tu. Cukupkan for your next annual profit statement yang berbillion tu. Tapi saya tetap haramkan RM 69.65 tu....

FeedDemon vs Google Reader

Update 14th January 2008

I decided to give FeedDemon a try for a month, but I hate it that I can't play my podcast directly from the feed instead I have to download it. You can play it online via Gator online, but there isn't a direct link to it either. Sux.

Update! 13th January 2008
FeedDemon is now FREE! I have downloaded the version 2.6. Looks like they have upgraded the interface. Whats new?

• Free online Gator account. Now you can sync your view your feeds online and sync with your mobile phone as well. All FREE!
• Thumbnail images instantly shows up on top of the feed listings.
• Have a Panic Button to mark all feed read.
• Prefetch items for offline reading.. cool
• Able to read in 3 modes, full post, summary and headlines - similar to Google reader.
• Add feeds to My Clipping for later viewing. Nice.

Overall, its still maintains the same features as before, however I don't think I will be switching just yet. The loading seems a bit slow. (I am just used to Google Reader's speed). Furthermore I have a lot of junk feeds, which I don't feel its necessary to take my hard disk space. But if you want to hear about the argument which is better? Lets see what Nick Bradbury has to say...

---

Its been a real challenge for me to decide which RSS reader I am going to be using. I have been using FeedDemon for a year now, but after watching this video, my interest in Google Reader was renewed.

FeedDemon

• Includes Podcatcher and syncs to my Windows Media which in turns syncs to my PDA. A real advantage.
  
• Offline reading.
  
• Newsbin
• 3 column view (Configurable)
  

Google Reader

• Fast!
• Simple to use with AJAX features
• Love the OPML import features
• Offline reading now with Google Gear
  
• AJAX integration with keyboard keystrokes
• Play podcast immediately from the browser

Finally I have decided to go full ahead with Google Reader although I will miss the Podcast sync with my PDA. Anyway, I hardly listen to them ... Lets see how its goes.

Insult on Islam and Country

Update on 15th August 2007

• Student rapper apologises
  

So, he apologises. Why no video? Was it sincere or due to pressure from Big G? You rapped in video and I want to see the apology in video!!

---

• Negarakuku - Translation of its lyrics in Malay
• University student comes under fire for video clip
• MCA seeking to calm uproar over music video

This is related to the "Negarakuku" rap video version of our national anthem sang by a loser in Taiwan. I didn't watch it, but after reading the lyrics I feel insulted that he sarcastically rapped about azan subuh. I got an advise for you, don't like the morning call, go and live Taiwan forever.

---

"However, Ong stressed on Saturday that the party would not tell the family if Wee had been right or wrong to make the video." - The Star

- I am more appalled that MCA is going to calm the matter and not ticking the father off. What nonsense? Tan Sri, why no police report on this?

"In Muar, DAP Youth chief Nga Kor Ming has invited Wee to join the party, saying that it did not find his "rapping" of the national anthem an insult.He said Wee was “very creative”, adding that the party could use his talent." - The Star

- Its not DAP needs him, its DAP need less people like you. What a dumb ass? You plan to rap thru the GE?

---

Our country Malaysia is multi-racial and multi-religion. All of us have to be tolerant and respect each other's religion and customs. I read another blog, a Chinese blogger who was annoyed that Muslims double park outside mosques on Fridays. Come one, go to Jalan Gasing on Saturdays, they double park in front of the church. But don't we all tolerate it?

I am one with the Government on this, extradite this moron back here and give him a lifetime imprisonment. Make sure his cell mate is a big burly gay guy who doesn't shower.

Fuming mad with McDonalds Kelana Jaya

I had my lunch around 3-4 PM. I was very hungry when I entered McD Kelana Jaya around 11.10 pm. This what happen:-

• As I entered I notice the environment was rather hot. No air con?
  
• Order my CFO and cheeseburger. I was told to wait for my cheeseburger.
  
• So I paid and waited beside the counter.
  
• Suddenly my cashier was changed with another person. My cashier went missing.
  
• I don't know what time was it.. but i think it was around 11.15 PM.
  
• I waited, waited and waited to be served. My cashier was still missing. 11.18 PM.
  
• It was 11.25 PM. I was boiling inside. An hungry man is an angry man.
  
• 11.26 PM, the new cashier notice I was waiting and ask what I was waiting for, I said cheeseburger. Then cashier shouted to the kitchen "cheeseburger!" and I didn't see any. Tak kan baru nak suruh buat?
  
• I blew my top "HOW LONG I HAVE BEEN WAITING!!?", then she shouted back to the kitchen "cheeseburger!".
• "IS THIS WANT YOU CALL FAST FOOD!!" - I shouted to them. Everyone stopped to look. Then my original cashier came running out, and miraculously my cheeseburger arrived!
  
• While waiting, those Mat Rempit of McD Delivery was staring at me. So the customer is wrong?
  
• Mistakes here?
  
• I should have kept my cool, but I just couldn't contain it anymore. I was hungry and left there unattended. I got really pissed when they had to reorder my food.
• My cashier went missing after taking my order.
• The new cashiers didn't know my situation.
  
• Why the original cashier didn't come back to attend to me or inform the new cashier that I was waiting?
  
• Why was not I informed the time of the burger would be ready.
• Why was I not given a drink and ask to sit down?
  
• The best part I couldn't find any email or phone number in McDonald Malaysia website to file in a complain. So much for customer service and McD is an international brand.
  
• I am going to lay off McD for a while.
  

Royal Fight

The blog world now is buzzing with Raja Petra Kamarudin aka RPK's 8 hour interrogation in Dang Wangi and his strong defiance over it. Kisah Malaysia semakin menarik... If you are right, you don't have to be scared, right?

What is more interesting is I found RPK who is royal blood fighting for Malaysia, which is truly uncommon among royals. So far I personally met one Tengku who is also fighting very hard for human rights in Malaysia. Although they are considered 'minor royals', but nevertheless still royal blood. Kudos.

Minor note:-

My office colleague threw me a belated birthday party in KFC today. Thank you very much guys. Tapi, I think I am getting too old for parties. Just give me a BMW would be fine. 

Installing PHP 5 & Apache 2 on Windows Vista

I wanted to use IIS 7 with PHP, but just couldn't get it right. I tried all solutions, installed the ISAPI extension, run the mapping script - zitto. After hours of trying I gave up. Screw it. 

So I decided to install Apache. Thinking it was an easy task... but no sir, it was equally time consuming. I just don't understand why. After much tinkering, finally got it to run. 

No, I refuse to use those all-in-one installers. No WAMP, XAMPP and etc for me.

Before you begin, this is a good site to refer to http://wamp.corephp.co.uk/index.php.

Who those who might be in the same predicament, here is the steps that I took:-

Step 1: Download PHP and Apache

• Download PHP from http://www.php.net/downloads.php. I first installed the MSI version, but then it caused more problem than good. I download the zip package instead.
• Once that is done, download Apache from http://httpd.apache.org/download.cgi. This one I choose the MSI version.

Step 2: Install

• Unzip the PHP zip file. You can store is anywhere, but the usual practise is C:\php. But its up to you. 
• Once done, now run Apache setup file. For installation steps - http://wamp.corephp.co.uk/step_07.php 
• For Apache, you can run it as service using port 80 or via console using port 8080. Its up to you. I am using console since I still need the stupid IIS to run .Net. 

Step 3: Configure

• Now, go open the C:\php folder. Rename the file php.ini-recommended to php.ini. Open the file. Look for the value "doc_root". After the "=" sign, type this "C:\Program Files\Apache Software Foundation\Apache2.2\htdocs". This will tell PHP to look for the web files at the mentioned folder. You can always change the path. 
• Now save the file. You can do the other tweaking later on.
• Open your Windows Explorer to "C:\Program Files\Apache Software Foundation\Apache2.2\conf\default". 
• Rename the file httpd-win.conf to httpd.conf. Open the file in notepad or any editor of your choice.
• Now comes the part that caused me the most headache. Telling Apache to parse PHP. 
• Look for within .conf file for DSO. Under it there will be a bunch LoadModule statements. Just on top of the first statement, type this
• # PHP5
  LoadModule php5_module "c:/php/php5apache2_2.dll"
  PHPIniDir "C:/php"
  
  
  AddType application/x-httpd-php .php
  AddType application/x-httpd-php-source .phps
• Next look for the value DocumentRoot. Make sure it looks like this - DocumentRoot "C:/Program Files/Apache Software Foundation/Apache2.2/htdocs"
• Now save the file and copy the file out to "C:\Program Files\Apache Software Foundation\Apache2.2\conf" folder level. 
• Almost there... now depending on your Apache setup earlier, try this http://localhost/ or http://localhost:8080/.  You should be welcomed with "It Works!" message. 
• Make sure Apache is running. If your running console, use the CMD command and "cd" to "C:\Program Files\Apache Software Foundation\Apache2.2\bin" and type httpd. Don't close the windows, its your web server running!
• Now the acid test. Create a php file with the following syntax

  <?php
  
  phpinfo();
  
  ?>

  Save it as phpinfo.php in C:\Program Files\Apache Software Foundation\Apache2.2\htdocs. 
• Now run again http://localhost/phpinfo.php or http://localhost:8080/phpinfo.php.
• You should be able to see all the PHP config information. 
• If you don't, then probably there is some PHP or Apache config error. Good luck!

Fitness First Review : Menara Maxis

FF is located on the 3rd floor of Menara Maxis. Menara Maxis is located just beside KLCC. If you live in KL and don't know where is KLCC, I strongly suggest you find out where is it and jump from the top.

• Parking, you must be either very rich or insane to park in KLCC. For the rest of us, park at Avenue K. Its much cheaper. Weekends its a flat rate of RM 1. I can't remember on weekdays, but its not that expensive.. probably RM 2 for the first hour.
• Avenue K is connected to KLCC via the tunnel. The tunnel connect the KLCC LRT station to Suria KLCC. Either that, you can cross the street at the zebra crossing.
• Security is tight, so handover you IC or FF membership card to the security personel for registration purpose. You will get an access card in return. Scan it at the turnstile.
• There is a dedicated lift for FF here. Its the first one on your right. 3rd floor.
• Recently FF installed a turnstile, so you gotta swipe your membership card again before entering the gym.
• Well as you enter, you first hit the receptionist table. I don't want to comment much here, you go yourself and judge.
• Men changing room is on the left and the ladies on the right as you enter.
• 2 floor split.
• Changing room is OK, clean. Lockers look pretty old. The funny thing is the shower room. They have this tall glass shower room and yet, no hooks. How to hang lah?
• Cardio is fun here, all the machines are facing the window. So you can run, huff and puff while looking at the KL traffic + the construction work of Four Season. Enjoy.
• Some cardio machine, have this funny 5" LCD monitor. Lots of treadmill.
• Machines, I would say they have a complete sets of machines. They have those elusive machines such as glutes, calves and etc. Double of lateral pull down, rows, pulldowns... thumbs up!
• Now for those hardcore guys, your place is upstairs. The freeweights area is not the big, but big enough. 2 bench press machines, 1 smith machine and a 4-5 work bench. However the machines here are like in Manulife. Looks like hardcore Muscle Beach benches.
• Dumbbells can be limited at some time if there is a crowd.
• There is a quiet gym room for those looking for solidarity. Quite a large room.
• Chicks - this one no need to talk so much. Your center of KL, you know there will be hot mamas around.
• Only one thing I dislike is the abs area is under the staircase. You are like crunching and then you get to see people's ass chugging up and down the stairs. Come to think of it, its not that bad at all...

Ratings?

Check out for more reviews below
FF Island Plaza
FF Manulife
FF IOI Mall Puchong
FF Menara Axis
FF The Curve
FF DU
FF Consplant

Installing Ruby on Rails on Windows Vista

Ruby? Rails? Keretapi Tanah Melayu? Doesn't make sense? http://www.rubyonrails.org for explanation.

If you are new to ROR and want to find out about installing it on Windows, here it goes.

Before that, here are some other tutorials for your reference.

• http://www.onlamp.com/pub/a/onlamp/2005/01/20/rails.html
  
• http://allaboutruby.wordpress.com/2006/01/09/installing-rails-on-windows-step-by-step-tutorial/

But the above URL uses those all-in-one installers. I hate those all-in-one installers. Where is the fun? So, this tutorial is for those developers who are looking to install each package separately.

Actually the steps are outlined at http://www.rubyonrails.org/down. Just follow them. Also, I didn't thought of screen capturing the installation. So most of the steps here are text based.

Step 1: Downloads all the necessary stuff

• Head to http://www.rubyonrails.org/down
  
• Download Ruby from http://rubyforge.org/frs/?group_id=167. You can download this http://rubyforge.iasi.roedu.net/files/rubyinstaller/ruby186-25.exe. At the time of writing, Ruby is at version 1.86.
• Download RubyGem from http://rubyforge.org/frs/?group_id=126. You can download this - http://rubyforge.org/frs/download.php/20990/rubygems-0.9.4.zip. RubyGem is a packager for Ruby. You need this to run many stuff later on. At the time of writing, RubyGem is at version 0.9.4.
• Next is MySQL. Head to http://dev.mysql.com/downloads/mysql/5.0.html#win32. Download MySql 5.0 Community Server. I assume you are not running enterprise level application. Download the Windows Essential version. http://dev.mysql.com/get/Downloads/MySQL-5.0/mysql-essential-5.0.41-win32.msi/from/http://mysql.oss.eznetsols.org/
• Your download folder should look something like below:-

Step 2 : Install

• Run ruby186-25.exe. It will do all the installation. Just sit tight. Once its done, go to your search box and type in cmd. Once the command prompt screen pops up, type this "cd c:\ruby\bin" (I assume you have installed Ruby in C drive). Then type "ruby -v". If you have installed correct, it will show the version. If not, you have to reinstall Ruby again.
  

• Excellent. Now lets install RubyGem. Unzip rubygems-0.9.4.zip. Click on setup.rb. The setup will run in command window.
  
• Once done, now you need to run post-install.rb. This will create the RUBYOPT environment variable to the value rubygems in Windows. More information at http://docs.rubygems.org/read/chapter/3.
  
• Well, we are done with RubyGem, now Rails. Open the command prompt window. Type "c:\ruby\bin ". Now type this "gem install rails --include-dependencies". What happens now that it will fetch the latest Rails framework from http://gems.rubyforge.org/ .
  
• Don't worry if its slow and looks like its hanged, its downloading. There is a standalone package, but I haven't tried installing it that way. Once done you will see the screen as below (look at the 3rd last line in the screen):-

• Now is MySQL. Unzip mysql-5.0.41-win32.zip and run the setup.exe. I am not going to explain on the steps here. You can refer to to section II of http://allaboutruby.wordpress.com/2006/01/09/installing-rails-on-windows-step-by-step-tutorial/
• Thats it. Your done! You are ready to launch your Ruby application. Just to note, your Ruby application file can reside other drives either than C.

Step 3: Create and Run!

• To create your application, open up the command prompt. Assuming its at D drive, type "D:\", then "mkdir projects", then "cd projects", then "rails myfirstproject". (You can replace the word "myfirstproject" with any words of your choice. Rails will create all the file structure for you.
• Then type "cd myfirstproject" if you are not in the newly created directory. Then type "ruby script/server". This will boot up WEBrick web server. Btw, don't close this windows as it will shutdown your webserver.
• Type in http://127.0.0.1:3000. Tada! You have your Ruby application up and running. Well almost....
  
  
  
  
• There are additional steps, however you can refer to section IV of http://allaboutruby.wordpress.com/2006/01/09/installing-rails-on-windows-step-by-step-tutorial/.
  

Enjoy your ROR!

Maxis e-billing with Mozilla

Beware, if you are using Microsoft Vista and IE7, you can't view your Maxis bill online (e-billing). However there is a workaround with Mozilla. This steps was provided by Maxis Customer Support.

1. Open your Mozilla browser (version 2 and above).
2. Type into your address bar "about:config". This will list out a list of parameters.
3. Below the address bar there is a filter bar. Type in the word "security". This will be bring you to the first parameter on security.
4. Look for security.ssl2.des_64 until security.ui.enable parameter. Mark them and all other parameters between them, double click on the value column and make sure all of them are changed to "true".
5. Restart your Mozilla browser.

Songkran in Thailand

What is New Year if we do not celebrate it? 2008 is to far away, so, my wife and I made a trip to Thailand. Songkran!

2nd time in Thailand but first time in Bangkok. We took the AirAsia flight to Suvarnabumi Airport, Thailand. Below are the bullet points of my entire trip:-

Airport

• One of the most amazing airport I have ever seen. Its huge! Way bigger than KLIA.
  
  
• The blue lights looks beautiful matching the airport exterior design.
  
  
• Its huge!
  
  
• Very modern and yet it blends together with the Thai culture. Alot of statues in the airport as a deco.
  
  
• Thai immigration officers are damn rude. I seen many times how they treat tourists. They shout at them for the slightest mistake. They never smile, and you will think, this are the front liners of Thai government and they don't smile or even say Thank You.
  
  
• Waiting for luggage is the same as KLIA. Long wait.
  
  
• Walking from point A to B in this airport is really a task. Sometimes it feels like going thru a maze.
  
  
• There is no standard uniform for immigration officers here, some wear uniform, others wear suit (a suit!?), normal shirt... aiya....
  
  
• I saw a Israel airline! First time in my life. All this while I didn't know Israel had airlines, just warplanes.

Deco in the Airport

Taxi

• We got a cab from the airport. Their standard taxis are Toyota Altis. Yup, the exact same one that is costing us RM 100K here.
  
  
• Now, important lesson about Thai taxis. Always ask the price before you get in. Negotiate for the best price. Why? Even if you ask them to use the meter, they will use the longest route to get to your destination. Its always a lose-lose situation for us.
  
  
• Yes, all taxi drivers in Thai are disgruntled ex-F1 drivers. So put on your crash helmet.
  
  

City

• I was amazed with the city. Everything is huge here.
  
  
• They have about 8 to 4 lanes highway stretching from the airport to the city and the toll is much cheaper compared to KL. Most of the roads leading into and out of the city are highways. Some are elevated highways. We went to Pattaya on an elevated highway. I think we were on the highway for about 1 hour or so. Compare to our Prolintas. You do the math.
  
  
• BKK is very modern city compared to KL. The city is well planned, but can't say much about traffic congestion. They have digital traffic congestion signboard.
  
  
• Bill boards are triple the size of those in KL.
  
  
• While on the trip to Pattaya, left and rights were factories. Not just one but just factories all over until your eyes can see. Huge economy here.
  
  
• They really have huge malls here. Sadly didn't managed to venture into one.
  
  
• So many fitness centers here. I didn't managed to go to Fitness First here. They have FF Plus - with salt water swimming pool!

Songkran - now for the best part

• Songkran is synonym to water festival. Basically they throw water on you and wish you Happy New Year. I guess it started with sprinkling of water as a blessing but some smart aleck decided to take it further with water guns.
  
  
• I met with my friend and his wife (who became our host) and they took us around to celebrate Songkran. Well thinking Songkran was over, I wore my T-Shirt and Jeans. What a mistake.
  
  
• We got onto a Tuk-Tuk (Yeah! finally), and he brought us around from our hotel. The next thing I knew, every corner there will be a group of ppl waiting with pails of water. Seriously, PAILS of WATER. They have past the water gun stage here.
  
  
• After one round of getting splashed with water (I didn't get hit much), my friend said "Ganee, hold this water gun, hold it?". Well OK. Bad move.
  
  
• Well, the rule of the thumb is if you hold a water gun, your gonna get it. I learn this the hard way.
  
  
• What I saw next was, WATER, WATER and WATER. Splash! Blink open eyes, SPLASH! SPLASH! We are talking about buckets here ppl.
  
  
• BKK was hot and didn't rain, but the roads were wet until the next day. That much water was used.
  
  
• I was soaking wet with my socks and jeans and it was not over yet.
  
  
• After soaking wet in Nana Road we went to Koa Sarn Road. The entire road was filled with people and each one of them looked like zombie. Apart from throwing water, they now put white powder unto your face. Escape!
  
  
• At one corner I saw someone taking water from this filthy river and preparing it to throw. Yuck!

A scene of water splashing

Yes, they go in pickup trucks and start a water war

Shopping

• There is this huge flea market in BKK. Its called Chatuchak. It houses hundreds of small stores selling all kindda thing from small key chain to t-shirts, shoes, fake jewellery, all kindda souvenir. I think we only finish about 20% of the area and we went around for 4 hours.
  
  
• Earlier mentioned was the flea market that operates only in the morning. There is another flea market that operates in the night. But this one has a huge open air food court with live entertainment and a huge screen.
  
  
• I missed going to Siam Paragon which is the biggest mall in BKK.

Pattaya beach

• We made a day trip to Pattaya beach for some sun and sea. It was about 2 hours bus ride, but it was highway all the way.
  
  
• We did nothing but lay around the beach, sleep and eat. In other words, being a slob.
  
  
• I can't believe the number of beach peddler who bugs your life every 5 second. How can one enjoy the beach?
  
  
• But the beach is too hot for comfort, on the way back, we kena baling water again. The street is not safe at all.

Pattaya Beach

Food

• Tx to my buddy, halal food was easy to find compared to Phuket.
  
  
• I tried an extremely hot spicy food, can't remember the name. I had to buy an ice-cream to cool down. 40 baht! Cut throat!
  

IMPORTANT:

Although the trip was suppose to be all fun, but I had a lot of opportunity to learn about different culture and country. I learn about people and aspiration. I learn about economy and democracy. I learn about people's passion for the King. This was a study trip for me and have open my mind to think out of the box. This trip helped my self-esteem and my outlook towards life. It was a good trip.

A shout out to my buddy for your sincere help in accommodation, paying my meals , taking us around BKK and Pattaya, shopping and host of other stuff. Thanks man!

Stolen laptop recovered!

Today I got a call from my colleague saying the Police found our laptops. My boss and I rushed to IPK (Jln Hang Tuah) to check it out. To our delights, YES! Its our laptop. Its back! They managed to retrieve 2 out 4 laptops.

All the data are intact but there is a few scratches on the surface due to the rude handling of the f**king thief. But to my dismay, we were not allowed to take back our laptop because they need it as evidence to prosecute the culprit. Aiyah... so we got ourselves an external HDD and spent the entire evening transferring files.

At least I got my data back. That is more than enough. You can keep the laptop. Anyway, my new laptop is just a week away. I saw the freaking culprit. I wish I could strangle you, but alas then I might end up sitting beside you with cuffs. Learn to earn a decent and honest living idiot!

All in all, its been a tiring but exciting day. I got my data back! I am alive!

To Koperal Zakri (very nice man), Koperal Subra (another nice chap) and team from IPK KL, D4B, thank you very much for you assistance.

My laptop stolen!

Stupid f*ck**ng bloody useless scumbags! During lunch time, 4 laptops was stolen in my office and one of it is mine. Gone all my precious data. That is nothing in this world that can repay it back.

Don't you useless piece of walking meat have anything better to do than to steal other ppl's belonging. I really hope, let me say this is Malay - "Harap harap kau kena langgar dgn kontena lori laptop Dell and mati tertimbun dlm ribuan laptop. Dan juga aku harap semua RAM, motherboard masuk dlm korongkong busuk kau dan perut kau terburai dgn sisa-sisa toksik batteri laptop tu. Itu pun aku rasa tak puas tgk kau mati macam tu, biar lori kontena gilis kau 5000x, sampai badan kau tinggal sisa daging dan tulang utk dilapah oleh anjing kurap yang gila." Also, I hope you get fried, baked, steamed and cooked in hell for eternity.

Really upset and disappointed. Habis baik, aku tak tangkap kau dlm ofis.

Fitness First Review : Island Plaza, Penang

For someone who doesn't go to gym so often, I sure write alot about gym. What the heck...

FF Island Plaza is located in Island Plaza shopping complex, Penang. I believe its on the way to Feringgi Beach. I was staying in Sg. Dua at the particular time. Travelling across the island, thru the horrible Penang traffic for 1 hour gym workout. Not worth it. But anyway...

• Parking is paid by hour. I think its about RM 1-3.
• Take the lift and go up to 4th floor (I think). FF its on the left turning (I think).
• The receiptionist was friendly and helpful. Thumbs up!
• 2 level floor. The juice bar on the upper level. (Why do they ever do this!?)
• The whole place looks kindda small. All the machines and cardio equipments are cramped into a small place. More like a warehouse sale.
• The free weight are is small, more or less like DU.
• Big glass windows along the gym. You can see Penang and its wonderful condos.
• I think this place is frequented by expats.
• One studio and 1 small abs area.
• Machines, more or less the same as the rest of the FF gyms.
• Plus point, they have a sitting area just outside of the changing room. Not bad.

Ratings?

Check out for more reviews below
FF Manulife
FF IOI Mall Puchong
FF Menara Axis
FF The Curve
FF DU
FF Consplant

Interviews

My position in the company requires me to interview and hire candidates applying for an advertised position. Throughout the years, I have interviewed no less than 50 people for various position. On the net, there is a lot of information regarding how a candidate should prepare for an interview.

Now, you guys listen to me. Direct from an employer. This is a grunt from me as an employer to all those job seekers.

1. Only apply for a job if you are INTERESTED!
   Don't waste a person's time. I shift through hundreds of resumes looking to shortlist candidates. So don't waste my time to call you and to find out that you are not interested.
   
   
2. Read the freaking job advert line by line!
   Study if you match the requirement stated. I got a candidate telling me on the phone, that he is only interested if the job is beneficial for him! In which planet are you in!? No one takes employees to only benefit on one side. There should be a balance on both party. If you don't match the job spec, don't apply!
   
   
3. Be polite on the phone. You are talking to your future employer.
   Some candidates just think they are hellavu great. Be polite and courteous. You are not the only person we are calling. After shifting through hundred of people and we think you are important enough to be called for an interview, have the respect and decency to talk politely. This kind of people usually get rejected immediately from me. So remember, the first phone call is important if you are serious about the job.
   
   
4. Make time for an interview!
   I got candidates telling me they are not free for an interview for the whole week. Why did you apply then? Negotiate politely for a best interview time. I don't care if you are busy, I am much busier than you are but yet I made time to call you. Always prepare a suitable time in case you are called for an interview.
   
   I used to conduct interview during the weekends to make those working candidate's life easier. Almost 60% did not show up for an interview. What!?
   
   
5. Show up for your interview! If you can't make it, call one day in advance.
   Some candidate don't even bother to call. Remember, someone on the other end had sacrifice his weekend is waiting for you to show up.
   
   
6. Bring all the necessary documentation, demo, source code and etc.
   Some candidates comes in for an interview with just a pen. I am not interested in your degree. Show me your project source code, demo and such. This will impress your interviewer more. And dress appropriately matching the company's attire.
   
   
7. Don't waste my time!
   There are candidate who comes in for interview just to 'test water'. I had one guy who had the cheek to tell me that. If you seriously looking for money, go sell VCD or something.
   
   
8. If you don't know the answer to a question, admit it!
   Don't try to wiggle your way out. It makes you look stupid. Don't try to correct your interviewer either. I would not be asking a question if I didn't know the answer earlier.
   
   I had candidate telling me she can't answer theoretical questions, but can perform exceptionally well if given practical work. No problem, I flip open a test paper which I have kept prepared. Do it now. Didn't do well either. Now, why do you get yourself in such a dumb situation?
   
   
9. Once you get a job offer, show up for work!
   If you have received another job offer, please inform you employer about it, ASAP. Don't make them prepare your offer letter, get a desk and PC for you, install the necessary software, waiting in anticipation for you and only to find out later through 3rd party that you got another job.
   
   This are really sick people and deserve to burn in hell. Its no joke since you got the HR, Management and Technical department all working for your arrival. Not to mention the projects that you are suppose to handle.
   
   
10. Keep your promises once you have entered your job!
    Most candidate will promises anything during the interview, but the moment they enter the workforce, things change.
    
    My gold fish needs a bath, I can't work late. I can't do this, can't do that. My pay is not enough, gossips, chatting on IMs, taking long lunch breaks, frequent MCs, surfing jobstreet in the office.
    
    You knew what you were getting into, so shut up and start working. Ask all relevant questions before signing the contract. Don't like working in the company, then leave, PLS!
    
    

In each industry, I believe its a small world. You will end up meeting the same industry people for meetings or projects. Top management tend to meet each other more often. So there is an opportunity to ask about a future candidate application. So don't screw up with any of your employers. The news will get passed around.

Take interviews seriously. "I got no time".

Fitness First Review : Manulife

Located within the ground floor of Menara Manulife (Used to be known as John Hancock). Its located in Damansara Heights area beside Menara HP.

• Easy access from the main road. There is parking at the basement and the surrounding area. But beware, getting a parking might be difficult.
• First impression, there is sure alot of equipment here. All cardio and machine lumped into one area.
• The interesting part of Manulife is you get machines which other FF centers do not equip. This must be a gym for hardcore, so I heard. Btw, this is the only FF center that I have seen which you can do DECLINE bench press. Enough said.
• Two floor, the juice bar and changing room are on the floor above. Looks like they discourage ppl to drink.
• I am seeing double again. There is a small free weight area, but each equipment seems to be doubled. 2 smith machine, 2 sets of complete barbells (amazing), 1 1\2 set of complete dumbbells, 2 leg extension, leg curl machine and etc. However the workbench looks like from the era of Muscle Beach. Really hardcore man.
• There have glutes and calf machine. Finally!
• The changing room is clean, but as you enter, the dark colored wooden lockers and flooring makes you feel that you are in some kindda dodgy spa center. They should really refurbish.
• I met a very nice PT guy. However, can't say the same about their sales ppl.

Ratings?


Check out for more reviews below
FF IOI Mall Puchong
FF Menara Axis
FF The Curve
FF DU
FF Consplant

New Year in Phuket

I celebrated my New Year in a foreign land - Phuket! This is the second country I am visiting after Singapore which was in the year 1997-1998.

Patong Beach

How was it? It was overall a good trip but could be better. Being in Phuket with a bunch of friends was an interesting event. For a person who didn't travel much, I can say the 10 most striking thing about Phuket from my point of view is :-

1. 96% population in Phuket are whites (from all over the world). The rest are Indian, Nepal, Chinese, Thai and "lain-lain".


2. Pork is served widely. Its like their national dish. You can get pork just about everywhere. Its tough for a Muslim to eat. Yes, there are Halal restaurant, but its like paying RM 20 for a meal.


3. Dogs in Phuket are mute. They don't bark. Not even the Rottweiler.


4. My trip was during the super peak season, so the prices of all items are triple than normal. But their imitation products are good!


5. I can't get used to paying in Bath. Because everything you pay, you need to add a zero behind the number you pay in Msia. Imagine paying for a mineral water, "20 bath", "what!? 20 ringgit... ohh wait a minute... RM 2.. ok...."


6. Thais can't pronounce Twenty (20). They will pronounced it as Seventy (70). I got a shock of my life while paying for my mineral bottle.


7. There is mobile advertisement van promoting Muay Thai fights all day and night long. For the first day you are there, its fine.. but it sure gets on your nerve after the first day. "Big fight! Big fight! Tonight! Tonight!". Ganee goes = "F*$% idiot! Stupid irritating! Arghghh!"


8. Beware while bargaining with Nepal girls (The salesgirls in the gift shop lah!). They may be small but feisty.


9. Somehow Thailand is famous for suits. You can make your complete business suit here for RM 500. I got one!


10. Everyone is your friend in Phuket. "My friend, come in my friend".

New Year!?

It was the best New Year ever! The entire Bangla Road (Strange.. didn't see any banglas) was in a party mood.

• Firecrackers was bursting all night long. Those CNY firecrackers bursting one after another on the roads.


• People were dancing, spraying you with some kindda party thingy. (don't know what is it).


• Watch fireworks just above you, literally I was directly under the fireworks, it was amazing.


• Watch ppl let go hundreds of lanterns by the beach. It was a beautiful sight.


• Watch ppl get drunk and stone asleep by the beach. I hope the wave didn't bring him away.


• People was amazingly nice. Even though they were drunk and partying. No fights broke out. Ppl were polite and respectful. You can't get that in KL. Not with the Mat Rempits around.


• Ppl were dressed to kill. We came with shirt and jeans. Ok what?

Other interesting things?

• Phuket this time around was full of perfect ppl. The guys were hunk and very muscular. The ladies were very pretty and overly "perfect" in certain part of their body anatomy. Kindda Utopia. Were we the outcast.


• Yes, there were topless girls in the beach, sadly old ppl.


• Yes, there were pretty "ladyboys". No I didn't approached them.


• Sleazy joints? Its there if you look hard enough.
  
• Bangla Road is the most happening place in Phuket. Its filled with rows of bars and pubs. Each outlet has its own trademark. Some provide pole dancers, both original and ladyboy.


• The best pick up line I have heard... "Mister, can I love you for one hour?". Hahahh my friend and I laughed hysterically.
  
• Take a tour to Phi Phi island. We went snorkeling at one spot. It looked like 100m deep. Although beautiful but not for the faint hearted.

Things that I missed and wished I have done:-

• FantaSea show


• Simon cabaret show


• Firing range


• Jet ski


• Visiting Karon beach (Nude beach?)


• Getting a bike/car and travel the entire island


• Getting a spa treatment


• Watching a Muay Thai fight


• Getting on a Tuk Tuk.


• Visiting the rest of the beaches. So sad....


• Walking half naked like the whites guys. But alas, I don't have 6 packs.....

My advise, visit Phuket during the New Year once in your lifetime before you reach 35.