Ernie Chen's Blog

Being Smart about LEVERAGING!

2012-02-28T19:10:00.006+08:00

In order for us to achieve desired results, we need to work hard and take massive actions. In order for us to go beyond desired results, we need to work smart by leveraging on resources around us. That's it. It is of no value for us to keep creating for the sake of creating. Look around and be more inquisitive as to what we already have going for us. Make full use of our existing resources. Be smart. Make it work!

New Year. New Game. New Strategies. One Simple Objective

2012-01-31T15:15:00.003+08:00

Moving towards our vision and mission. A lot seem to find it difficult to achieve desired results and they wonder why. It is really simple when you do not plan and do as plan, you will never get there.

Nothing comes easy. If you want to achieve any success in your life and career. Remember to have the conviction that it MUST happen. Be committed and do not allow yourself to give any excuses at all as to why it cannot be achieved. Stay focus and keep pushing until it happens.

If you think you work hard, work harder. If you think you work hard. Work Smarter!!

2012 - The End or A New Beginning?

2012-01-03T12:19:00.002+08:00

According to the Mayans, this is the year that the world will come to an end. We have 2 choices here. To live out the year and our lives to the fullest while waiting for the world to end or just wait for the world to end. If the world really is to end this year, I rather maximize my existence with achievements and results.

On another note, I do not believe in the world coming to an end.

Taking things for Granted !

2011-11-17T11:33:00.004+08:00

Sometimes we see lots of opportunities. Sometimes we do not see opportunities. Sometimes opportunities are given. Sometimes opportunities are removed. Most of the time we do not appreciate the opportunities given until they have been removed. NEVER TAKE THINGS FOR GRANTED!

GOING ALL OUT!

2011-10-31T11:34:00.002+08:00

In life there are 3 types of people:

1. The people that do not know what the hell happened.

2. The people that see things happen.

3. The people that make things happen.

I have always decided to make things happen. And I always go all out to make things happened. Once I am in, there is no turning back as I shut all backdoors to ONLY move forward. Whatever it takes to get to the desired results, I will do. Are you with me?

You NEVER EVER MESS with an ENTREPRENEUR'S PASSION

2011-09-19T19:28:00.004+08:00

Recently one of my staff collaborated with a Radio station to play a prank call on me. They were successful – in a way. However, the radio station's deejay wished he never did make that call. From the onset of telling me that my film Suatu Malam Kubur Berasap was to be pushed back from the original date of screening of 22nd December 2011 to a later date next year – I BLEW MY TOP IMMEDIATELY AND GAVE HIM A PIECE OF MY MIND. He did not have a chance to really even pranked me as I was giving him a mouthful from what I was going to do to the people that made such a bad and stupid decision on flip flopping their decision. We are already dealt with lots of challenges daily and we sure do not need incompetent people changing decisions at their whims and fancy. I was not happy and will NEVER be taken hostage. I want you all to learn from this episode – NEVER EVER MESS WITH AN ENTREPRENEUR'S PASSION. ESPECIALLY WHEN IT IS THEIR BABY!

Working with Competent People!

2011-08-24T15:28:00.003+08:00

As I write this, I am doing the Final Mix for our 2nd Movie, "Jidin Sengal" in Bangkok with Siam Film Development. I always look forward to come here to work with the team here as they are competent in what they do just like us. It is amazing how fast, effective and efficient we all can be when competency meets competency.

However our experience back home with some incompetent team from you should know who was horrendous. We pay people to help solve problems and not point out more problems for us to fix. If Malaysia is to compete on a Global platform we Malaysians will need to push the bar and take it to the next level.

Nothing Comes Easy!

2011-07-28T10:07:00.002+08:00

Always remember to work hard for any achievement. Anything that comes easy will also be lost easily.

Work hard so that we are trained with the right skills to do much better for anything in our life.

"THAT'S IMPOSSIBLE. IT CAN'T BE DONE!"

2011-06-16T18:17:00.005+08:00

"That's impossible. It can't be done."

That's what my friends & family members told me when I wanted to start an Education, Entertainment & Communication Businesses!
I was called an Idiot by my family members, I was teased by my friends for being too idealistic and I was made to believe that it can't be done!
7 years later today, we have proven that it is all achievable and we have the results to show.

You and I are very much alike - with one

Exception, NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE TO ME!

What Made The Difference?

After SELLING FOR FOR SO MANY YEARS from products to services to an idea, I have learnt that if we are to achieve desired results, we MUST always:

1. WORK HARD – IF YOU THINK YOU WORK HARD, WORK HARDER!
2.BE TOUGH & CONSISTENT IF YOU WANT TO BE SUCCESSFUL! (Being on MC because of a throat infection, stomach upset and a slight flu is NOT going to cut it).
3. NO ONE GIVES A SHIT ABOUT OUR PERSONAL PROBLEMS! (Manage it and cut the drama)
4. MAKE A DECISION TODAY AND GET RESULTS FOR YOUR LIFE AND CAREER!
5. ENJOY EVERYTHING THAT YOU DO!
6. LIVE YOUR OWN LIFE NOT YOUR PARENTS OR FRIENDS!
7. DON'T EVER GIVE EXCUSES! BE RESPONSIBLE FOR OUR ACTIONS AND INACTIONS!
8. DON'T EVER BLAME! BE RESPONSIBLE FOR OUR ACTIONS AND INACTIONS!
9. DON'T EVER COMPLAIN! BE RESPONSIBLE FOR OUR ACTIONS AND INACTIONS!
10. ALWAYS REMEMBER TO SAY THANK YOU!

THE ABOVE PRINCIPLES CHANGED MY LIFE! I AM WHO I AM TODAY BECAUSE MY ACHIEVEMENTS AND RESULTS MADE ME BELIEVE THAT

"IT IS POSSIBLE! IT CAN BE DONE!

No Complains, No Blame, No Excuses & …

2011-05-27T10:35:00.002+08:00

As I reflect back on how we have continuously & consistently grow our companies, it has definitely been without a doubt more than a great ride so far. In life as in business, obstacles and challenges are there to keep us stimulated. However many have failed to take it on from a more positive light. They tend to just complain, blame and give all sorts of excuses on why they did not make it and why they did not get what they want. You see, these losers can never admit to themselves that they are incompetent and if they were to do so, it would have been their fault. Losers just cannot accept the fact that they are losers. On the contrary, if we continuously and consistently take massive actions, we will be creating abundance and opportunities right in front of our eyes. They next time, you think about complaining, blaming and giving excuses, think again. Just say thank you and move forward from there.

Success follows Failure

2011-04-28T16:51:00.002+08:00

If we have never failed, then we have never succeeded. We can ONLY learn success through failing. The more we fail, the faster we get to achieve desired success. But always remember to never make the same mistake 2 times. Learn from our mistakes and be certain to move ahead with our decisions in life.

Stay focus on getting there.

Life Challenges!

2011-03-21T12:22:00.001+08:00

I am so excited to be living a life full of challenges. It has been an amazing journey thus far and I have enjoyed every single one of those challenges. The challenges keeps me alive and I can only say that I am thankful for them. So if you are dealing with a life full of challenges, be thankful and appreciate that we have a life with challenges in order for us to keep moving forward.

The Time of My Life!

2011-02-24T13:17:00.004+08:00

3 reasons Why I am having the GREATEST time of my life!

- LivIng & Making My Dreams Come True.
- Doing and Achieving the Impossibles.
- Accumulating Great People Around Me.

If you are not having the GREATEST time of your life.
- Decide to have it.
- Plan for it.
- Take Action.

LU LANSI LU MATI!

2011-01-26T11:40:00.002+08:00

I recently came across the above tagline and it reminded me that this is how I have always been leading my life all these years. This is by no means a representation that I am arrogant but a strong statement that I would like to share with people that crosses my path be it personal or business. This is who I am and this is what I am about. When I keep my silence does not mean that I do not know what you have done. When I keep my silence, does not mean I have forgotten. When I keep my silence, does not mean that I will not come after you in time to come.

LU LANSI LU MATI!

BIGGER, BETTER and BOLDER than ever BEFORE!

2010-11-23T12:44:00.002+08:00

2011 is going to be a GREAT year for ATCEN, outLOUD and my team. We will be moving forward with clear focus to achieve desired results. I am extremely happy, excited and proud of what we have achieved thus far but the best year is still ahead of us. I am happy as we continue to move forward, excited as it will be a BIGGER year for us. BETTER as we have improved tremendously, BOLDER as we will stand up and fight to WIN. I look forward to our continue achievements and success and I have not even began my career. Look out ASIA as ATCEN ROARS outLOUD!

NEVER GIVE UP.......

2010-10-29T10:24:00.002+08:00

People always ask me what keeps me going even though there are so many challenges day in day out in wanting to achieve my dreams. Isn’t it just so much easier to just give up and let go. Just live a normal and routine life that will keep the peace for everyone. You see, I decided long time ago that I do not want to just exist and that if I were to live, I was going to be living a productive and meaningful life. I have learnt that no matter how tough a situation can be, it will always pass. It is just another bad situation and I am always bigger and stronger to overcome them. Just as long as I Never Give Up! Go over, go under, go around or go through it. But NEVER EVER GIVE UP! Success is closer than you think it really is.

My Vision for ATCEN .....

2010-09-15T18:06:00.005+08:00

A lot of friends and family never fails to asked me why do I still work so hard day in day out after having created so many successful businesses. My response is very simple. I have visions that are bigger than myself to achieve. Here I would like to share with you a sneak preview on my vision for ATCEN by 2020. This will be our ATCEN Learning Campus. A place where people will come to learn skills that will help them secure high income professions be it working for someone or starting out on their own. This will be achieved together with many other dreams that I still am working towards and I look forward to sharing with you in the near future. Till then .....keep on dreaming.

I do not expect you to understand ........

2010-08-23T12:21:00.002+08:00

I do not expect you to understand why I do what I do. I do not expect you to understand why I say what I say. I do not expect you to believe me. I just do not anymore. I just expect you to deliver results that has been agreed upon. Nothing less and you definitely do not need to explain as I will also not understand as we come from two different worlds. Results is what build trust.

1Malaysia in ATCEN or Just ATCEN Malaysians?

2010-08-23T12:13:00.005+08:00

There is this huge debate among the Politicians with regards to us being called 1Malaysia to unite us to be known as proud 1Malaysia. There is the other school of thought that says that we do not need such slogans that is just making things more confusing. So who is right here? At our recent ATCEN Merdeka BBQ family day celebrations, all we know was that we were ATCENians that are Malaysians with a multiracial workforce accepting each other’s difference coming together under 1 team to eat, play & work together as 1 family. So what do I think? Just as long as we are taking practical actions to help us improve our relations and equality as Malaysians in our country – We will become better Malaysians for a better Malaysia.

Training Others to Give Us Money!

2010-07-28T15:45:00.003+08:00

I often hear people say that they are broke. In fact I have had experiences of friends, employees and family members that are constantly broke that they are always borrowing money from others. You see the secret to learning how to make money is really no secret at all. It is all in the fundamentals of how we save to invest. It is never just about making more. It is good to make more but if we do not manage it and know how to do it, it will all just disappear very quickly. I remember not too long ago, a young employee of ours who got into a HUGE credit card debt without her even realising that it is the compounding factor that is killing her. Before she knew it, it was so BIG of an amount that she just did not know how to get out of it. Stay wise, live within your means and do reward yourself once in a while when you have achieved something.

What I learnt from Patrick Teoh .......

2010-06-29T17:11:00.005+08:00

I have had the privilege to work with Patrick on 2 separate occasions on the theatre stage a decade ago. It was an amazing experience as he has always been the man I have always wanted to become like someday when I grew up. He was a celebrity radio deejay and entertainment business owner in various industries. What was so great about him was that even with all the achievements in his bag, he has always been the likeable nice man that is very different from the persona he had on radio. I have always admired his ability to stay focus with all that he does especially keeping his head on the ground no matter how popular he became. I just did a recent interview with him on my TV Program, The Entrepreneur Media Expose and this is what I learnt from him – We just want to be remembered by the people that we care about and who cares for us. The rest are really not that important. Thank you Patrick.

Letting Go ......

2010-06-29T15:06:00.004+08:00

In life just as in business – people will come into our lives and businesses with lots of promises, hope and commitment when everything is fine and before you know it, it is all broken with empty promises. We can easily get angry, frustrated or even wanting to get even. Over my many years of getting frustrated and disappointed with human beings if I can call them that, I found a better solution to it all. Just let it go ..... it will be OK. No two persons/ parties will ever agree on everything. There MUST be a protagonist and antagonist in everything that we say and do. We will always have new blood and new energy in our lives. Only those that persevere and have learnt to let go of the bad will enjoy their life journey. And I can honestly say I am enjoying my life so much by just letting go of the bad and welcoming the good always.

What I learnt from Winnie Loo .....

2010-05-27T21:15:00.002+08:00

I had the privilege to interview Winnie Loo today and it was a great learning experience for me from her determined and persistent drive to make A Cut Above literally above the rest. During my interview with her for my Online TV program The Entrepreneur Media Expose, I asked her the question of what was the most challenging obstacle she encountered throughout her journey and she mentioned to me that it was when each time she wanted to grow her business. She mentioned 3 specific things that became a real pain: backstabbing by people she trusted, people resigning and people wanted to start their own business. It really made a lot of sense to me and I had a little smile. Being an entrepreneur myself, I understood. 31 years later after she started her first salon, she is as elegant as when she first started out. I congratulate her for all her successes and I look forward to her continuous success as she is a lady that knows what she wants. Here’s to Winnie Loo, a 1^st class entrepreneur. Hoo Ah!

LOHAS – The New Way Forward

2010-05-26T16:12:00.001+08:00

It has been almost 7 years that I, my partners and core team ventured into this world of Entrepreneurship. We have gone through a lot of hard work, tough times and we continue to do so moving towards our vision to develop entrepreneurs of the future. Change is an everyday thing and a lot has happened in the last 7 years. We proudly say that we are doing very well in our businesses as we continue to profit and grow. We are here to stay and we are here to make this place a better place for all to learn, play, work and live in. Therefore leading to the critical importance of the introduction to The New Way Forward – LOHAS in our organization moving forward. I personally look forward to this as I get healthier with lots of sports activities, healthy eating habits and I find myself even more energetic while being more sustainable in my quest to achieve my dreams. I encourage you to do the same if you want to also get there.

You’re Fired!

2010-04-22T21:03:00.006+08:00

The Top 3 things I learnt from the Donald and what I have done:

1. As long as you are going to be thinking anyway, THINK BIG. - Donald
But for those that do not think, stay stupid - Ernie

2. I have made the tough decisions, always with an eye toward the bottom line. Perhaps it's time America was run like a business. – Donald
If Malaysia and Malaysians do not get better today, we will be finished soon. - Ernie

3. When somebody challenges you, fight back. Be brutal, be tough. Sometimes by losing a battle you find a new way to win the war. - Donald
This is why I NEVER ever give up. I always get BETTER. I ALWAYS deliver results. - Ernie

Mr. Empowerment or Mr. Ichickenout ...........

2010-04-16T19:02:00.000+08:00

This reminds me of a story of easier said than done. It s really easy to provide ideas and suggestions and think that we know the answers to problems. But when it comes to the real deal of having to come face to face with our real challenges, it is always easier to take the easy way out – We Run. Life is full of challenges and that is what keeps us alive. The next time when we ask for empowerment, please make sure we really want to be empowered before we frightened ourselves from what we are happy doing before being empowered as it can really cause a lot of unnecessary work for others. Again, easier said than done.

Building Commitment

2010-03-16T15:38:00.008+08:00

The following quotations have always kept me focused on achieving everything that I desired in life. This is what I live my life by and it has given me a whole lot in my life. Stay focused and committed to a cause to achieve desired results.

"Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Failure is then just around the corner.''

"Objectives are not fate; they are direction. They are not commands; they are commitments. They do not determine the future; they are means to mobilize the resources and energies of the business for the making of the future."

''Desire is the key to motivation, but it's determination and commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal - a commitment to excellence - that will enable you to attain the success you seek.''

"Something in human nature causes us to start slacking off at our moment of greatest accomplishment. As you become successful, you will need a great deal of self-discipline not to lose your sense of balance, humility, and commitment."

Nothing comes easy. Stop dreaming about any success if you are not going to be committed to taking massive action. If you function like any normal employee, you will forever be a normal employee. Choose to be different.

The MAS Ladies

2010-03-04T15:11:00.010+08:00

I recently made a trip to Bangkok and to my surprise, my team and I had a pretty good flight experience because of 2 Malaysian Airlines Stewardess. They were not just willing to serve but went above and beyond to ensure that we are had a fantastic time on board even though they were dealing with some really unreasonable passengers online. With that, I just want to congratulate both Sandeep and Latiffah for a job well done and I look forward to many more flights with MAS and of course today my perception of MAS - I can say Mana Ada System (MAS) to Malaysia Ada Service (MAS). We just need to be proud Malaysians to make Malaysia a much better place for all to live in.

Get Ready or Get the Hell Out!

2010-02-24T10:35:00.004+08:00

The reality of the real business world is that it does not recognize your paper qualifications without real results. It does not even recognize effort without real results. The reason is because the real world requires us to pay bills. Nobody cares about your passion and will not be interested to teach you with you having nothing to offer in return. A business is not interested to pay you to get ready. Do that on your own time. The real world expects us to perform, produce and deliver on the word go. Not when you are ready.

The Entrepreneur - Coming soon ....

2010-01-21T15:30:00.012+08:00

It is a really great to have found what one’s calling is to do. I am truly passionate about starting businesses and what’s even greater than that is that I can combine all my passion and businesses together into 1 mega project that will not just entertain but educate the masses at the same time. Visions are great. But if we do not move towards them, it is nothing but a dream. This is the next BIG thing that I am now working on with my team and we look forward to the outcome of the project.
Coming to a computer near you ..............

Do I Trust You?

2009-12-23T23:37:00.004+08:00

It is interesting how people abuse the trust that we have in them. In life, what goes around will come around. If we lie too often, it will definitely catch up with us sooner or later. So my advice to those that think that you can get away with it, think again as the last thing you need is to be caught red handed. That would not be a pretty sight!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.

Dreams Do Come True, only if...

2009-11-24T11:49:00.004+08:00

Only if you stop dreaming about things that you want and start taking action towards those dreams. If you dream about making your first million, ask yourself right now, what are you doing right now that will help you make your first million? I have been dreaming about owning my very own entertainment studios. In fact since I first visited Universal Studios in California. I can proudly now say that I have made that happened. I am a proud owner of my very own outLOUD Studios – a one stop entertainment service provider that houses recording & post production facilities. I am now dreaming of my next dream, Malaysia’s first entertainment theme park based on the world’s blockbuster movies.

CHOICES IN LIFE!

2009-10-26T12:34:00.005+08:00

We all have choices in life and we all decide on the choices that we make. Whatever the choice maybe, we have to deal with the consequences that comes with it. I have learnt to create lots of choices for myself through the years. We will all struggle at one point or another. It is up to us to find ways out by creating opportunities and choices for ourselves. Today I choose to work hard because I truly enjoy everything that I do. I choose to live out my dreams by taking action and making it happen. I will soon have another dream of mine achieved really soon. Look out for it December 5th 2009.

MJ Boleh!

2009-09-23T16:09:00.002+08:00

That is Malaysian Jordan (MJ) Boleh! I was recently at Genting Highlands and I witness a talented man by the name of Jordan Sam, an impersonator of Michael Jackson or better known as the MJ of Asia. Not only did he look the part but he really did dance, move and even tried to sing exactly like the real MJ. I felt really proud of him not because he was able to sound, look or even dance like MJ but the fact that he was a Malaysian that was able to do what he did on stage. We do have lots of talents in Malaysia and we need to find ways to keep them interested in Malaysia before we lose all out talents and make Singapore a much better place.

Do Your Time and Pay Your Dues!

2009-09-09T00:00:00.001+08:00

My salute goes out to Misbun and Chong Wei for these are the individuals that deserves our respect. Let’s appreciate their ability and consistent hard work to achieve glory not just for themselves but for our country. The above article talks about a young gunner named Kwong Beng not being able to take the harsh treatment by Misbun. Nothing comes easy. A lot of professional dreamers dreams of being successful owning their own businesses, driving their dream cars, living a life of freedom or even becoming the next world champion. But what they forgot was the time, pain and effort that is required for any success to be achieved. So the next time when we get a shelling from our bosses or some harsh treatment by a senior– suck it up and accept it with humility and say thank you for the lesson. You will not be told that you suck unless that you really have a little in you that really does suck a big one.

Cow-Head Protest ..... or Cow Dung Racist?

2009-09-04T17:19:00.003+08:00

After reading the article above, I am really proud to be associated with Malaysians that truly appreciate each other’s races. NO. Not the stupid idiotic group of racist that brought a cow head to protest at the Selangor Menteri Besar’s office. Absoulutely ridiculous to have find such extremist given their religion a bad name. I am very proud to be associated with the writer and other Malaysians who are educated about the power of becoming true Malaysians. 1 for all and all for 1 Malaysia.

Blame The Individuals. Never the Religion.

2009-08-14T15:24:00.004+08:00

When I was growing up, I was told that the Muslims were bad people. I never knew why and was curious to find out for myself. I took Sejarah Islam in Form 6 and I even studied Islamic Studies in my Uni days in America and was enlightened on the teachings of the Islam faith. I dare not say that I am an expert but I learnt that Islam teaches patience, integrity, honesty and all the good that encourages humanity to be better as human beings. If we are Muslims, live like one and if we are Christians, live like one. Just like the article attached, I find it important for us to always understand and remember that it is us the humans that give all the religions a bad name and if we are to make this world a better place to live in, we better start with the man in the mirror just like Michael J. said.

Life Goes On!

2009-08-06T09:31:00.001+08:00

Recently, there have been numerous deaths and bad things happening around the people that I know. It is good to acknowledge and be sad as it is part of grieving for the loss of something. But do remember that once you have done that (not too long - please), that the world does not stop and wait for you to get better. Life Goes On! Pick yourself up and start to move forward with whatever that you have been handed with. I came across this article in the STAR paper about a man that lost both his legs at the age of 9 - his name is Tony Christiansen, a motivational speaker that did not let this affect him to become a successful businessman, an Olympic gold medallist and also the ability to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. All because he knew that life goes on and that he did not have time for regrets. This is what we need to be. Never giving ourselves excuses to move forward and to do a whole lot better.

You Better Die at 75!

2009-07-28T00:37:00.004+08:00

Article 1

Article 2

This is what I have been teaching and sharing in my Millionaire Business School to people to understand that NO ONE can survive with just having an employee mindset and lifestyle once they grow older. I refer to the (Article 1) that I have attached an article that states based on a survey carried out by EPF in 2004 showed that 99% of contributors withdraw all their savings in one lump sum after they retire at 55 and 75% of them deplete their EPF savings within 3 years of withdrawing the money. This is exactly why we MUST be more than just an employee today. We MUST start to own businesses, be an investor and most importantly start today to learn how to become one. Based on (Article 2), the basic assumptions and calculation shows that we are NOT able to survive beyond the age of 75 if we do not have enough saved up or have prepared ways for sustainable income after we lose our monthly income. Please do something today for yourself and not be a burden to your family and society in time to come.

I Want to SLAP Some Faces!

2009-06-25T15:17:00.001+08:00

Reading the above article in the STAR makes me want to slap some faces! 6,700 jobs up for grabs in the Government alone and yet jobless people are being so picky. What the hell is wrong with some people? Don’t they just know how to appreciate? I do not want to do sales as my pride is too high. I do not want to do service oriented jobs as I will have to deal with difficult customers. I am very stress as I am new to the workforce. I am a Master Degree and Degree Holder. I cannot be doing such jobs. HELLOOOOOOOO!! If it is still hollow and empty inside! What do you mean you are too good for jobs created to help you right now! In order for us to get to where we want to, we sometimes have to do the things that we do not like. Get over yourself and learn to tame the ego shouting inside you. This is the real world and there is absolutely no free lunch. We are who we are because of our actions or inactions.

Our Englund Not Terlalu Terrer.

2009-06-24T10:46:00.004+08:00

I was reading the article above stated in the STAR paper dated 23 June that the standard of English in the Country has deteriorated since the switch to Bahasa Malaysia as a teaching medium in the 1970s. This was not shocking to me and definitely no surprise as I speak to lots of FRESH Graduates and believe me when I say they cannot even carry out a proper conversation in the English Language. This is not a gentle reminder as I am telling you as it is in your face... yes you and in your face right now. Work on your English communications skills today or face the consequences of being ridiculed by the world.

Our Fresh Graduates Today

2009-06-23T11:10:00.001+08:00

I am very concern for the future of Malaysia. Our Fresh Graduates do not present themselves very well with regards to their attitude and competency. I can accept the fact that our Malaysian education system sucks and that they are not train properly to face the challenges of the corporate world today but the individuals learning attitude just pisses me off. Appreciation and gratitude is lacking and I wonder what they learn from home. All 3 parties – The Government, Parents and Individuals MUST take responsibility for their behaviours. If we do not get out of the comfort zone that we are in today, we will be far behind and will be the ones losing out. Fresh Graduates – use your head and think. Not your obvious nonsensical stupidity to make idiotic decisions. You are given an opportunity. Appreciate it and say thank you. Otherwise, it will be removed.

INCOMPETENCY AND CORRUPTION!

2009-06-08T14:55:00.002+08:00

I only see the above 2 things when I looked at the pictures. Malaysia MUST develop her people to be more competent and we MUST STOP all corruption. If not more people will be killed.

PKFZ – Need I say More!

2009-06-01T21:25:00.007+08:00

People always say Malaysia is well known around the world for 1^st World Infrastructure, 3^rd World Mentality. I beg to differ.

Malaysia has 1^st Class Policies, 3^rd Class Implementation. We really need to get better at executing as 1 nation and stop all the corrupt practices.

The Motivated Entrepreneur

2009-05-26T15:54:00.001+08:00

I have been asked this many times. “Why are you so motivated to do so many things? What do you really do in a day?. And I have been sharing my story over and over again. Now for the first time, you are welcome to have a look in to a day in my life as “The Motivated Entrepreneur”. I recently completed a short film documentary that was produced by DreamTalents Media. The film will soon be submitted for film festivals all over the world. You can now check it out right here on www.ernie-chen.com . Enjoy!

Creating Millionaires is My Game!

2009-05-25T14:57:00.002+08:00

I made my first million at the age of 33. But make no mistake, it did not come easy. As a matter of fact, I was being hunted by my landlord for 4 months because I had no money to pay for my rental. Nothing comes easy especially money. However, once you have succeeded in making the first million, it is a matter of repeating the success formula. It becomes faster and easier every single time we set out to make those millions. I have succeeded in achieving this objective many times over and I am now wanting to help create other millionaires because I can. If you have the desire, make the right choice, belief in yourself and take action today, you will be on your way to becoming a millionaire.

Wake Up Malaysian Politicians!

2009-05-18T10:54:00.005+08:00

What a Shame!

ATCEN International Group – A Truly “Bangsa Malaysia” Company - You Make Me PROUD!

I really wonder why the hell do we even bother to vote them in to destroy the UNITY that we have worked so hard to enjoy the peace, harmony and above all else the tolerance that we have in the country that I love so much. It is time for these politicians to wake up and stop using us the rakyat as excuses to further enhance their power and wealth and start working for us. If you can’t even get it right in the Dewan Rakyat, then maybe you should all visit the ATCEN International Group to learn about how everyone get along without concern of race, religion, gender and even if you are a homosexual. And belief me, when I do say we have them all, we are damn proud to say that we are truly a Bangsa Malaysia company. We are ATCEN. We are ATCEN. We are ATCEN.

The Most Productive Mother Award

2009-05-12T21:40:00.005+08:00

I read today that we are now encouraging Mothers to deliver lots of baby. That is why an award was given with the above title. Reading the story, it was speaking about the struggle and challenges that some parents have to go through to raise children. I totally appreciate and understand and would not deny the gratitude that we must all show to the parents that cared for us. However, I think it is absolutely ridiculous for us to sympathize with the parents that had 21 children and said how tough it was. This is insane. Of course it would be tough to raise 21 children. What were they thinking? Have they not heard of something called condoms?

Internet Marketing Craze!

2009-05-05T10:13:00.002+08:00

It is biggest joke to me when I still see advertisements like this in the papers. I am surprised that there are still people buying the idea that you can still make money from the internet starting from scratch without any experience or some even claim that without any effort making money in your pajamas. What are they thinking? How can anyone in the right frame of mind be wanting to get rich the fast and easy way? Have they never heard of the saying easy come easy go? I have been to way many Internet marketing previews to see how and why it cannot work as a business. It cannot work because it does not have a sustainable business model. Let me bring to your attention all you internet marketing groupies that the internet is a great and powerful marketing tool. And that is all it is. You will still need to have a business model that works. If you want to know how? Visit www.millionairebusinessschool.com.my and you will learn how to build a sustainable business model.

Another Reason to Love Malaysia

2009-04-29T03:50:00.005+08:00

We have such an amazing country. A country with so many races that is able to learn, live and have fun together. Everyday, we hear of Tornadoes sweeping across America, Tsunamis about to hit Japan and today the Swine flu hitting Mexico and the rest of the world. We may have reformasi here and there but believe me, it is nothing like what they had in Bangkok recently. We talk about our economic crisis but it is nowhere close those the problems they have in America and Europe. I think about it daily and I love my country with different races and diversity. I love my company with people of different races and diversity. This is what we call Malaysian’s Malaysia. This another reason why I love Malaysia.

The Millionaire Business School

2009-04-20T17:25:00.002+08:00

We have been bombarded by one bad news after another by the media. It is really shocking to see that we are so preoccupied with what’s the next bad thing that will happen and we forget the importance of looking out for the next big opportunity. I would like to share with you first and to have a sneak preview of what you can expect from the Millionaire Business School by visiting the website at www.millionairebusinessschool.com.my . This is something that I have been wanting to do, to share the secrets of Millionaires in doing business. I look forward to seeing you at the workshop and to begin your millionaire journey.

The 13 Must-Do's for Entrepreneurial Success: Just Get It Done

2009-04-20T12:35:00.000+08:00

Just getting things done with becomes complicated when there's people involved:

The importance of "speaking up" in order to get the right things done:

Riots in Bangkok & Archuleta the Idol

2009-04-13T15:41:00.002+08:00

Two major events, one in Thailand and the other in Malaysia. It is just amazing to see the craziness of the people when it comes to creating havoc for their own country. They are just giving their home country a bad name. Don’t this people see that they are the “patung boneka” of the multi rich politicians? The people that really suffers in Thailand are the poor people especially when tourism is such a big deal to the Thai people. Who would want to visit them now if the country is in a state of emergency?

On the contrary, the craziness of the people can also be seen by the screaming fans that would do just about anything to see their former supposed to be American Idol in person. It was something else as I heard on the radio that people even wanted to fight to have a piece of the napkin that David wipe his mouth with.

We the people are the reason that we have riots. We the people are the reason that we have idols. We the people are the power of the universe.

The 13 Must-Do's for Entrepreneurial Success: Having The Willingness to Learn

2009-04-13T12:31:00.000+08:00

Some valuable lessons - learning about being cheated, and being lied to

Helping the community through The Millionaire Business School

The 13 Must-Do's for Entrepreneurial Success: The Importance of Setting Stretched Goals and Targets

2009-04-08T18:25:00.002+08:00

Its important to set goals contradictory to the way we function. For example Task-Oriented people should focus on communicating with people.

Being patient for the long-term vision; but impatient with short-term goals.

Our New Prime Minister

2009-04-06T10:37:00.000+08:00

Like him or hate him, Dato Seri Najib has officially been appointed as the 6th Prime Minister of Malaysia. I really do not care who is leading the country as long as the leadership benefits the rakyat and we see the new administration delivering on its promise. I just would like to remind the both Barisan and Pakatan leadership that the rakyat is a whole lot smarter and better informed these days that they better not be pulling a fast one or they are going out in the next General Election. As for now, Congratulations to us Malaysian for being the voice that is finally heard.

The 13 Must-Do's for Entrepreneurial Success: Leveraging on Necessary Partners

2009-03-30T13:00:00.000+08:00

The two different types of partners: the partners you work with and partners you have business relationships with

Strategies for successful partnerships

ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS!

2009-03-30T10:25:00.000+08:00

I am beginning to wonder if the politicians, especially those in the cabinet actually do any work for the rakyat? One by election after another, one supreme council after another. When the hell are all these going to end with our taxpayers money being wasted? I strongly urge all parties to focus on the most important thing at this moment in time – The Economy, if you dumb asses have still not come to realize yet. Stop the ego and power mania chase that is really making us Malaysians look so shallow and stupid in the eyes of the world.

The 3rd Must-Do for Entrepreneurial Success

2009-03-27T12:42:00.001+08:00

Money can bully you; keep your focus on your values

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The secret is understanding the business process.

The Beach Club or The Whore House!

2009-03-23T08:00:00.000+08:00

I was recently doing the tour guide thing with my Vietnam Business partner and I showed him the usual hot spots in Kuala Lumpur. Unfortunately, it was a Monday and most of the places that my team had asked me to take him to was pretty much dead. You see, being a Group CEO of numerous companies does not allow me the luxury to party that much these days. And it has definitely been a while since I stopped over at the ever famous Jalan P. Ramlee and more outstandingly The Beach Club, ie The Whore House. It was to my amazement and amusement that this place has become a pretty aggressive meat market to pacify the taste buds of men of all nature. Believe me, it is really easy to be popular at such spots and if you are not blind, you will probably see all kinds of breast sizes and shapes. It was really funny as they paraded around us while adjusting their fake yet awkward looking balloons. And for those of you that are interested, it is the Vietnamese season.

The 2nd Must-Do for Entrepreneurial Success

2009-03-16T09:00:00.002+08:00

The truth may be brutal but it drives you.

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How to tell people the truth.

The Truth Hurts!

2009-03-16T09:00:00.000+08:00

It is sometimes good to know that you are not everything that you think you are. It will also be good to know that the truth hurts and if we continue to live in a life of personal lies, and choose to be ignorant then you have asked for it. Seek the truth as that is what will be good for you in the long term. If you never hear the truth, you will never learn. If you push the blame it will soon come back to haunt you. We may choose to help our way but others may want to be help in a way that can also work for them. There is never just one way to skin a cat for anyone.

When in Doubt, F%#K!

2009-03-09T09:00:00.002+08:00

I think we question ourselves too much sometimes so much so that we end up more confused after. Many of us go through second guessing ourselves and trying to figure out what works and what doesn’t – we have so much of self doubt and if you don’t sort it out, you will become a miserable excuse for a human being. But I have the solution thanks to Scent of a Woman starring Al Pacino. I remember a scene where as he walked out of his house, he made a comment to his cat about having sex when in doubt. I thought it was pretty cool because sometimes in life, we just need to do it. Imagine how much you can save on therapy bills…

The 1st Must-Do for Entrepreneurial Success

2009-03-07T09:00:00.002+08:00

A true entrepreneur is always looking for new opportunities

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It's okay to fail

Chillies – The place with lukewarm service

2009-03-02T09:00:00.000+08:00

I took my team out to Chilis Grill & Bar for dinner last Saturday; we went to the outlet in 1 Utama Shopping Centre. First up, the “hostess” named Yenni looked and sounded like she’s rather be anywhere else in the world at that moment. She sounded (and looked) fed up and was rude to say the least. Take into account that she’s the first contact a customer has with the restaurant. She told us to wait, gave us menu but told us we can’t order anything until we’re seated and then went on to roll her eyes so much so I thought they might lodge themselves behind her skull.

For the record this is the chronology:
9.30pm : Arrived at restaurant

9.50pm : Were shown to our table

The table had no plates, no cutlery and we had to get our own napkins. There were also old filled out comment cards that were not collected. We’ve scanned one for your enjoyment.

10.15pm : Drinks arrived. Although they were confirmed and the orders written down, there were still 7 drinks missed out.

10.30pm : Chips arrived

10.35pm : Then the plates arrived…AFTER the food started arriving

There was a point when some assistance was needed and the server who was right behind out table (and not serving anyone) had to be called 5 times before answering.

OK. There was one good thing, the server told us we’d get fresh glasses with every refill. From the word go, we stayed pleasant to everyone, even when it was time to give the restaurant manager some constructive feedback. I also found out from my team that many of them either have had, or know of people who’ve has less than pleasant encounters with the staff at Chilis.

Have you experienced this too? Let them know. You might just be doing them a favor – that is if they’re ready enough to listen.

The Importance of keeping a promise…

2009-02-23T09:00:00.002+08:00

In business, one must never over promise and under deliver. It will ruin you, eventually. This principle is true of everything else as well; whenever you make a promise, ensure you deliver it otherwise, don’t open your mouth.

On a recent trip to Krabi, a few of my team members promised to treat me to a meal. It didn’t happen. When we returned to Malaysia, I made it a point for them to remember by telling them. It’s not about the hard-up or cheapskate approach. It’s about keeping your word.

You can ask anyone on my team and they’ll tell you that I always keep my promise. It’s not about the big things, but the little gestures that go along way to developing character and leadership skills. A promise is a promise. They got the point and message clearly and decided to make me a sumptuous meal. I was happy and appreciated it. It is never about the food but the promise made must be kept. That builds trust and credibility.

What Happens in Krabi Stays in Krabi…

2009-02-16T09:00:00.000+08:00

Mention you’re going to Thailand for a holiday and there’s a huge chance that eyebrows will be raised suggestively – more so if you are a man. The ATCEN International Group just returned from its annual company trip – to Krabi, Thailand.

Prior to arriving, there was a lot of talk regarding the sex trade and the easy access of it in abundance. This perception was quickly laid to rest upon arriving in Krabi, especially as night time. There’s of course no denying that there will be some corner, back end place somewhere that will offer the human trade, but what struck me the most about Krabi is the extremely picturesque scenery and the beautiful island and of course, the ocean. It’s just amazing as a place for family fun and relaxation.

Krabi personifies the old adage to never judge a book by its cover. Sometimes, there’s much more to it than just what we think and what meets the eye. We just have to experience and dig deep down.

Malaysia, Democratic???

2009-02-09T09:00:00.002+08:00

The last time I checked, I was living in Malaysia where coups do not happen. Or do they? It sure seems like it with the fall of the previous Perak state government. And also the last time I checked, we were supposed to be people; since when did some Malaysians turn amphibious – of the hopping kind?

To the best of my knowledge, when the people vote for a certain party, it means they WANT that party to helm the state. It’s the people’s choice. Three members going solo and jumping ship may get a the state a new government, but it’s not necessarily what the rakyat wants. Or maybe that doesn’t matter; actually it never did.

What we have is an absolutely ridiculous undemocratic process hostile takeover of the Perak Governtment. What in the world is this country becoming? Are we creating Kingmakers in the corrupted assemblyman that was voted in by the rakyat. This is so clear and absolute not acceptable. This is insanity and pisses me off. I do not care who governs the state or the country. But whosoever does, must respect the Rakyat’s wishes. Have a by election and let the people decide. Not by such underhanded dirty tactics.

Ernie Chen on BFM 89.9: Money Wise

2009-02-03T17:48:00.006+08:00

People & Brand Development Consultant, Ernie Chen shares his thoughts on being financially prepared during these tough times.

Ernie tells how he got started in business and the basics of getting through an economic downturn.

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Ernie gets down to the essential points of overcoming challenging situations and learning to adapt with the changing environment.

The Predictions of WW3

2009-02-02T09:00:00.000+08:00

Michel de Nostredame or more popularly known as Nostradamus is considered the main point of reference when it comes to prophecies for the future. He has predicted many disasters, such as plagues, earthquakes, wars, floods, invasions, murders, droughts, and battles.

Nostradamus enthusiasts have credited him with predicting numerous events in world history, from the Great Fire of London, by way of the rise of Napoleon I of France and Adolf Hitler, to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. There is no evidence in the academic literature to suggest that any Nostradamus quatrain has ever been interpreted as predicting a specific event before it occurred, other than in vague, general terms that could equally apply to any number of other events.

But what you can be sure of now is that the Third World War is looming on the horizon and it’s our entire fault. Don’t blame the weather, that’s also our fault in case you hadn’t noticed.

I mean companies going bankrupt sure, shit happens, unfortunate shit happens – but when countries go bust, you can’t help but feel that everything is going to hell, or maybe we’re already in it. Take a look at this: global economic crisis, global warming, wars, natural disasters and all other kind of bad crap happening. This is definitely WW3 that I know about. We are the only ones that can stop this war.

KT was not a wake-up call!

2009-01-26T09:00:00.000+08:00

When the racial minority rejoices that a Muslim political party has won the by-election over a party that supposedly represents all the rakyat, you know something is not right somewhere – or that something very wrong is being set right. And that’s what happened recently in Kuala Trengganu when PAS won the KT by-election. How much more obvious can the collective scream for a new government be? Right now, it seems that any government will do, just as long as the old one is vanquished. For some, it may not necessarily be the opposition but they just want a new government. I know this will happen because; the Barisan Nasional does not seem to get the message and understand simple fundamentals. As each day passes, our PM is one day closer to moving out. But it’s not all disastrous though. At least he will not be like Bush and be remembered as one of the worst presidents ever. He will just be seen as the seat-warmer for the rakyat’s next best candidate.

At least they focus on competency...

2009-01-19T09:00:00.000+08:00

When things go wrong in the world, there is a good chance that a large number of people will be very quick to point and accusing finger at the US. While I do agree that United States may suck big time at many things especially with regard to policies and economy, I will give them props for electing someone competent this time round. Or at least that’s what I see and think, and I’m sure I’m not alone. The Americans seemed to have wizened up and chosen the rightfully appropriate candidate – and it doesn’t matter that he is African American and bits of various other nationalities. Now, let’s take a look at Malaysia. Look at the number of incompetent “leaders”. How can they be elected representatives of the rakyat with such competency levels. It is absolutely absurd. We are not toddlers who like puppet shows. So kindly stop putting up a “boneka” to confuse and frustrate us.

Stop Worrying & Start Taking Action

2009-01-12T09:00:00.000+08:00

“Worrying is like a rocking chair, it gives you something to do, but it gets you nowhere”. ~ Glenn Turner

There is so much bad news these days; it’s enough to make anyone want to jump off the nearest building. Wait a minute, that’s happening already.

Finding a bit of good news is like finding the proverbial needle in the haystack. And what boggles the mind is that we do send positive news to the media but they seem insistent on highlighting the bad news.

Do they seriously believe that bad news sells? Maybe it’s time for a reality check. People buy the papers not to read about the bad stuff, but they buy it for a glimmer of hope – that perhaps things are getting better in certain parts of the world or that things will get better.

The bad news has to stop.

And we have to stop believing everything we read. If you read about something you are unhappy about – do something about it. Of course you can. Get a group of like minded people and band together. If you think about it it’s not whether you can do it or not, it’s whether you want to.

It’s sad but this at a time when so many people are having it hard; it could be your time to rise above the rest and make the best and most out of the situation. It’s only when we begin to create opportunities for ourselves that opportunity will show itself. You’ve got to fight for your right to survive and be a part of the good news that will sweep the nation soon.

Goodbye 2008 & Hello 2009: Putting and end to Bullshit and Grabbing the Bull by its Horns

2009-01-05T09:00:00.001+08:00

It’s the year of the Ox, Bull etc in 2009. And while the world is screaming bloody murder at the economic woes, there are some who are finally realizing a perfectly horrible storm is coming.

In case you were hibernating, here’s a gist of the meltdown mess that was 2008: declining wildlife, more global warming, a pretty momentous US Presidential race, a wake up call for the forces that used to be in Penang, and of course many bullshit promises that were broken a hundred times over.

Now we have arrived in 2009 – where things are going to get worst and this is the truth. But the bright side of things is that when you hit rock bottom, the only way is up, unless you choose to give up and down deeper still – like six feet under.

We have all been given free will – to choose our actions and be accountable for them. So what’s it going to be for you this year? Are you going to do a belly flop and kick the bucket or you going to grab the charging bull by its horns and wrestle the crap out of it?

You can make 2009 your best year yet. Only you can decide your future and make the impossible possible. It takes hard work, that’s the truth. But it isn’t going to kill you. It’s the giving up that will do you in eventually. And there’s no deadlier poison than the regret of not doing your best.

Manusia Mudah Lupa!

2008-12-22T09:00:00.000+08:00

As I flip through the newspapers, sometimes I feel I’ve entered a time machine and it’s taken me back, waaaayy back. It’s so damn ridiculous that some idiots are still not learning from mistakes like the Highland Towers episode for one.

It’s really mind boggling how things work here sometime – they seem to forget so easily the lives that have been lost due to bad planning. Everytime a landslide happens, God is blamed, the weather is blamed, everyone is blamed, except for the real morons who should be help 100% responsible. You know who you are.

Then there are the floods. Perhaps Proton should look into making boats not cars at the rate the banjir kilat is happening all over the place. At least then, they might start making a profit.

There is little wonder why the politicians, and supposed powers that be forget. It’s because of a four letter word called D-U-I-T (money). Pay offs are so
frequent that it is discussed so openly. How you sleep at night knowing that that grand house you’ve bought has been paid for by blood money. Wouldn’t be poetic justice if it all goes under a landslide.

Stupid Decisions that Will Mess up your Credit

2008-12-15T09:00:00.000+08:00

At a time like this, when jobs and finances are going to hell, the last thing you want is to create a bigger fire to slowly roast yourself alive. These are some things you should definitely think about – and it might just save your skin.

Cosign for relatives/friends

When you're asked to cosign for someone, the creditor has determined that it does not trust that person to repay the loan. The creditor insists on you putting up your money, your property, your future income and your good name to guarantee that the loan will be repaid.

If your relative does not pay, the creditor will come after you. The creditor does not have to try to collect from the relative. If you do not pay it, and it will looks just as bad on your credit as if it were a loan to you.

Take out a second mortgage to pay off credit card debt.

If you borrow on you home, you will increase the monthly cost to stay in your home which could result in its loss if your financial circumstances worsen.

In addition, you will be converting short term debt--debt which should be paid off in a matter of months--into long term debt which will take years, or even decades to pay off. Even worse, you may be tempted to again run up the charge cards which you have been paid off so that you have lost your equity in your home for nothing.

A Dream called outLOUD Academy

2008-12-08T09:00:00.000+08:00

It has been three years in the making and at I knew what the outLOUD Academy will come to fruition – and it has been well worth the wait. For the record, this has long been a dream of mine – to create and set up Malaysia’s very first Hollywood style talent discovery and development agency.

I can never say enough about discovering and developing people to meet their best and fullest potential – I am passionate about it. With the outLOUD Academy, I get to take this one step further.

One other push factor that led to the outLOUD Academy is what I’ve witnessed personally with regard to how some Malaysian celebrities are managed so badly. A lot of them are dealt with like they are fresh meat, and those that are not are usually cut a deal far less than what they deserve. They say, if you want to get a job done, them do it yourself. Instead of bitching about it, I decided to set up the outLOUD Academy.

I am confident that with this truly exceptional academy, Malaysian talents will be nurtured, developed and enjoy sustainable careers. We will not just do it but do it exceptionally well with an end to end service provided to them from casting, training and management of their career. Watch us make it happen.

The Government That Never Learns

2008-12-01T09:00:00.000+08:00

A standard dictionary will define a servant as: A person employed to assist in domestic matters; sometimes living in the employer’s house. The second definition clearly states: “A government worker.” To the best of my recollection, to serve is to prove a service to someone, but of course you do not see this in many of the government offices in Malaysia.

Correct me if I’m wrong, but it seems as if we are the ones who have to behave dutifully whenever we have business at any government agency. We have to smile, nod and be so nice to them because we are afraid that they might just “lose” our application if we so much as frown.

Don’t you also get the feeling that some of them go out of their way to make things difficult for you? We are the midst of applying for a company signage. Each time we propose a name, they contest it and give stupid suggestions that don’t work. And so, what would perhaps take a month to approve, takes half a year.

Can someone enlighten me on the great level of “difficulty” involved in signage approval? Does it take back breaking work and scientific formulas? I don’t think so. If it did, we wouldn’t have the kind of people we do right now working in these departments. What’s really irksome is that they are so non customer-oriented and are oblivious to the fact that we are paying their salaries.

Just wait until the next election comes along. We will rid their lazy behinds and when out of a job, they might then truly understand the meaning of what it is to be a servant. Idiots!

60,000 Unemployed Malaysian Graduates…and Counting

2008-11-24T09:00:00.000+08:00

If you Google “unemployed graduates” you’ll find a string of blogs, news archives relating to Malaysian unemployed graduates. According to Wong Chun Wai in his article “For our kids’ sake check the slide” (Sunday Star, Nov 16), there are 60,000 unemployed Malaysian graduates.

There are some quarters who sympathize with these graduates and even blame corporate companies for not making available more opportunities. The numbers are crazy, ridiculous and ludicrous – as is all the sympathy being showered on these graduates. As the number increases, the attitude and ability of the graduates go downhill.

Let me share some figures with you. Since the beginning of the year, ATCEN has had 16 interns/fresh graduates. Out of this, only FIVE completed their internship and received jobs – two at ATCEN itself. We do give them opportunities – but most of them can’t take the heat. Ask them to work until 9pm and they don’t turn up the next day. Couple this with zero initiative plus no common sense and it equals a recipe for unemployment.

Due to this affliction, most companies would rather pay a lot more in salaries and get better qualified people on board than to literally squander their time with these graduates. Time is wasted because these young people are trained, nurtured and in some cases mentored only for them to leave without even so much as a thank you.

Fresh graduates should realize that a majority of them have bad attitudes towards life and work. They are too picky and choose jobs like they are selecting fruits at the pasar malam. Most are also stupidly unaware of the position they are in, which is NOT a position to be fussy.

These graduates also want instant gratification, make lots money but not willing to put in the effort. What they need to learn is delayed gratification. I will keep telling them to wake up by slapping them on their face and make them suffer to learn the reality of the world.

The Setapak Kopi Experience

2008-11-21T09:00:00.000+08:00

I used to wonder why so many people have such a connection with Starbucks Coffee. The answer came to me one day while I was having a cup of coffee at a kopitiam in Setapak. Although it obviously was nothing like Starbucks, the experience was just as nice if not even more special because it’s the only one of its kind.

There are virtually countless Starbucks outlets around the globe to serve the multitudes who love the concoctions sold there. However if you have been reading, you’ll also know that Starbucks has frappéd itself by multiplying and duplicating at warp speed.

To date, Starbucks has closed down 600 stores, laid off 13,000 people and has reported that it will put on hold 40,000 new stores. Would you like whipped cream with that?

The Hope Called Obama

2008-11-19T09:00:00.000+08:00

It’s finally happened and I am so pleased. America has her first Black President and what was once thought of as impossible is now a reality. I still remember my Principal Consultant telling me that the Whites in America will never let this happen.

Well, this man has gone against unbelievable odds to silence millions who thought he would never lead a predominantly white nation. I am a believer that anything can happen if we just Desire it, make a firm Choice, have unwavering Belief in this thing that we want so badly and take the right Action to make it happen.

Barack Obama’s deserved victory has dispelled the notion across the world that nothing is set in stone and anything is possible.

My Air Asia Experience

2008-11-17T09:00:00.000+08:00

I’m sorry to say that cheap flights or not, Air Asia is big flying ad for: “you get what you pay for”. During a trip to Kota Kinabalu, I experienced what would go down as one of the worst experiences I’ve ever had in my life.

For starters, the flight was delayed. Surprise, surprise. Next up, the seats were cramped and this made for an incredibly uncomfortable flight. If the client had not purchased the tickets in bulk, I would not have chosen to fly Air Asia.

There is no denying that the fare is cheap, and yes, everyone can fly now. But this is a case of a great concept but poor execution. And while it’s quite inspiring to watch an airline everyone thought couldn’t trying to make it happen, perhaps it would be wise to really look into these problems before lowering fares any further.

You need to maintain your brand’s image in everything. And even if prices are kept to an all time low, but if the airline is nothing more than a bus in flight, no amount of ad wars can resurrect a tarnished image.

Our Country’s Brain Drain Problem

2008-11-14T09:00:00.000+08:00

In addition to the various shortages scaring the pants off the world’s billions, do you also realize that there is also a shortage in clever people? This scares me most of all. Imagine years and years ahead living in a world populated by mindless dimwits? Great plot a horror flick if you ask me.

Many of the good ones don’t come back after getting the degrees abroad – they get jobs and stay on. There are very few (like myself and some others I know) who have decided to resist the lure of overseas abundance by toughing it out here, trying to bring about a positive change.
We experience brain drain for two reasons:

Inequality
The Package – or lack thereof: this includes compatible pay, good perks and the possibility of advancement and growth based on merit.

Those who can, take note: you can do something to change this by evolving in the way you run your businesses and companies. You have a responsibility to create opportunities and ensure that you are fair when writing paychecks and giving promotions.

Here’s a new era of Brain Gain. Let’s hope we are smarter from past mistakes and are wise enough to see that we can make this nation a melting pot not only of races but of minds teeming with innovation and brilliance.

Money Politics and Corruption!

2008-11-12T09:00:00.000+08:00

At this point in time, I feel the ACA (Anti Corruption Agency) should go into the business of hot air balloon tours. Why? Because the amount of hot air they spew about doing this and that about corruption is enough to fill many hot balloons for tourists thus increasing the country’s revenue in leaps and bounds.

Everyone is playing the holier than thou card – the finger pointing is dizzying to say the least and no one wants to be accountable. It is no my intention to sound preachy, but what I am is disgusted and annoyed because of the countless times corruption has been addressed, but nothing done.

This is a great example of all talk and no action. What’s more it’s certainly a testimony to how some quarters really do not fear what awaits once they step off the earth. It really doesn’t matter what faith or religion who practice – you will be held accountable in the big ledger in the sky. Seeing this is so, you’d better change your ways, or make sure that there are plenty people to pray for you.

You’ll probably choose the second option for two reasons: one is that it’s easier, secondly it’s because you’re most likely to bribe them into doing it. You’ll just die like how you lived – unjustly and corrupted.

The CEO that Tuned Out

2008-11-10T09:00:00.000+08:00

Sometimes, we meet people who place themselves on high horses. They seem to like the view from up there – but remember, the higher you are the harder your fall will be – especially if you’re too full of yourself.

Now, about a year ago I met Tengku Zafrul Aziz, who was at the time CEO of Tune Money Sdn Bhd – for the uninitiated, he has since resigned. When I read about this resignation, I couldn’t help but laugh out loud and hard. This was particularly humorous to me because in 2007 when I met him during a recording of The Firm, Tengku Zafrul decided to tell me about the top, middle and bottom lines about generating revenues.

The impression he gave me was that he came from wealthy stock, but uncertain of his standing in the business/entrepreneur circle. The papers stated he declined “…to elaborate further” about his resignation. Convenient isn’t it? Take what you want when you want it and then wash your hands of it when things get overwhelming. It’s probably better off this way.

Tune Money, like any other company needs a CEO worth its salt – a brave and bold captain to steer the ship away out of treacherous shark-infested waters. Not someone who, instead of bailing water out of a sinking ship, chooses instead to bail himself out. The last time I checked, captains went down with their ships – those with integrity anyway.

Honesty is still the Best Policy!

2008-11-07T09:00:00.000+08:00

Say what you like – but the most important qualities you can ever develop that will enhance every part of your life, are the values of honesty and integrity. When you have integrity, it means being totally honest and truthful in every part of your life.

Integrity is a value, very much like persistence, courage, and intelligence. It is your choice of values and resolution to live by those values that form your character and personality. And it is integrity that enhances all your other values. The quality of the kind of person you are is determined by how well you live up to the values that are most important to you. Integrity is the quality that locks in your values and causes you to live consistently with them.

Want to spot those with integrity? Look around you and see the ones that give the highest quality of work in everything they do. They are the people who are always totally honest with themselves in everything they commit themselves to, and strive to excellent work on every occasion. People with high integrity realize that everything they do is a statement about who they are as a person.

Your integrity is manifested in your willingness to adhere to the values that are most important to your. It's easy to make promises but often very hard to keep them. But every time you keep a promise that you've made, it is an act of integrity, which in turn strengthens your character.

The Power of Being Competent

2008-11-05T09:03:00.001+08:00

Robert Anson Heinlein was one of the most influential authors in the science fiction genre. In his book novel titled Time Enough For Love, “The Notebooks of Lazarus Long” states his idea of what a competent person should be able to do.

He writes: "A human being should be able to change a diaper, plan an invasion, butcher a hog, *conn a ship, design a building, write a sonnet, balance accounts, build a wall, set a bone, comfort the dying, take orders, give orders, cooperate, act alone, solve equations, analyze a new problem, pitch manure, program a computer, cook a tasty meal, fight efficiently, die gallantly. Specialization is for insects."

In the increasingly demanding world of business, leaders need to have a range of skills knowledge and experience. While all of these are vital foundations, what is clear is that success is no longer just about skills and expertise.

Our personal competence is all about how effective we are at managing ourselves. It includes how much self awareness we have, our ability to self regulate our behavior and our personal motivation.

In truth many people have never really spent much time building awareness of themselves and what makes them tick. Imagine the insights that you could gain if you just spent a small amount of time on this area.

Social competence considers how well we handle relationships. These days, it is hard to imagine many roles that are not highly dependent on relationships. The success of any organization is dependent on building relationships to secure business, manage challenges, overcome obstacles to name just a few. Social competence is also about being aware of the feelings and concerns of others.

Sadly many people struggle when they move into management and leadership roles, not because they lack skill or knowledge but because they lack the softer skills essential for success. So what's you next step in developing your emotional competence? Come to think of it, we can’t just focus on being competent but instead on the power of strategic competence and the need to focus on form.

*Conn: to direct or conduct the steering of a vessel; to give orders to the helmsman on steering the ship

The Insignificant, Insecure & Egoistical Professor

2008-11-03T09:00:00.000+08:00

I met someone last Saturday who was very pleasant at first, but then turned out to be one of the more insecure people I’ve met the moment he opened his mouth. This man, Prof. Dr Something Or Rather, introduced himself saying, “I’m Malaysian, but I’m from US?”!! What on earth is that supposed to mean? If this were an oxymoron, it’s pretty clear where the moron part is.

Anyhow, he was just supposed to accompany some MBA students to meet with me for a session on entrepreneurship. From the get go, he constantly interrupted me, his students, just about everyone he could vehemently stating his point – not like he had one to make.

I was very cordial and pretty good natured about everything until he started bombarding Malaysian entrepreneurs. He reiterated that he isn’t just an average professor and knows a lot more than many of the entrepreneurs around. I mean, come off it – what’s the point of raising your voice above everyone else’s – is it just to prove what you know? There’s no need to do that.

Part of me wanted to say to him, if you claim to know so much about being an entrepreneur, then why is that you aren’t in business? Why are you not an entrepreneur? Surely, if you are as good as you say you are, you’ll be minting money in no time and running the world’s most successful company.

But then I decided not to. One because it would have been of no use, secondly because an old adage came to mind, “Those who can’t do, teach.”

TAKE ACTION!

2008-10-31T09:00:00.000+08:00

It time for some questions.

Can you tell me where you will be ten years from today? More than likely, with a certitude of 99.99%, the answer is no. I'll leave a .01% for anything that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected. I'm sure you can assert an interesting and convincing argument of where you would like to be in ten years but since you’re all you do is talk and do nothing much about it, I suggest you shut up and listen and you will see a big difference between "will be" and "like to be".

Can you tell me where you were in your life ten years ago? More than likely, with a certitude of 99.99%, the answer is yes. I am sure there will be little arguing where you were in your life all those years ago. You can probably recount the events and include all the relevant characteristics, and qualities identifying each highlight. All this with clarity, color and total confidence. Imagine that, with total clarity and confidence. Don't you wish you can describe your future with that much accuracy and ease? I'm not at this point in time going to say whether it is or isn't.

In the blink of an eye, years can pass by. And it isn't until you have that abrupt moment realizing how much time has passed. Do you see the same person when you look back? Hopefully you don't see the same person today as you did ten years ago. If you feel that you do, how does that make you feel? Who cares, the real question is what are you going to do about it! Do you want to be the same person five years from now! Or do you want to be someone who succeeds and inspires.

1. Today, right here, right now, how do you envision yourself? What do you imagine are your future possibilities? What is the perception of yourself at point zero, today? Do you see yourself in a position or a time in your life where you want to be?

2. Has life become so easy for you that you don't need to move forward?

3. Have you become so comfortable with the way things have been all you do is just fantasize or hallucinate about moving forward?

4. Or have you created anchors in your life which prevent you from moving forward. Living an easy and comfortable life prevents you from creating an end goal for yourself and allows your surrounding environment to create and end goal for you. And anchors are distractions in life which prevent you from seeing an end goal and moving forward.

5. You can't live life on your own terms if you refuse to grow, if you refuse to move. It is also very easy to get caught up in our lives and often with the anchors, difficulties, dilemmas and confusions.

6. This only makes it seem more impossible to know what to do or how to advance with your life. Have you asked yourself what holds you back? Have you asked yourself what you are afraid of?

7. Sometimes you'll look at your past and you will think you are seeing your future. That needs to stop. If you look at your past, for any reason, it should be to measure how far you have come. To learn from any successes or mistakes you have made and to build upon them.

8. I'm not going to tell you "to" take charge of your life. Because you are already in charge of your life. You are always in charge of your life. Whether or not you just chose to either do nothing with it or consent to someone else to take charge of your life.

You chose to stay the same because you may think there is some external force which prevents you from doing what you want to truly be. You chose to stay the same because of your fear. You chose to stay the same because it is easy. You cannot fail if you do not try, nor can you succeed in obtaining success.

It is your time to wake up.

I Love My Job!

2008-10-29T09:00:00.000+08:00

Some say that a job is what you do keep a roof over your head and bread in the cupboard. To me it’s much more than that because I just love what I do. Don’t shake your head and say, “Of course he loves what he does. He’s the CEO and he gets to literally boss people around all day and there’s no pressure for him to deliver.” FYI, I don’t push people around and being Group CEO to 6 growing companies is pretty challenging now more so than ever.

I love what I do, my job so to speak because it’s a great game. In the years I’ve been an entrepreneur, I’ve discovered the excitement of being able to pinpoint and eliminate the roadblocks, detours and obstacles that had previously prevented me from building any kind of successful momentum.

Through this desire and tenacity I have to succeed I have found ingenious ways to increase my profitability by employing my very own business growth tactics and strategies. My love for the game of winning in business has allowed me to experience a massive increase in my productivity, resulting in a measurable lift in my overall satisfaction with who I am and what I do.

And what I’m all about is that I always play to win.

Huge Opportunities Amidst Economic Crisis

2008-10-27T09:00:00.000+08:00

Sometimes we don’t know that we are capable of doing something until and unless we are thrust into an unbearable situation. That’s when most of us will do what it takes to make it through – some do it through illegal means while others rise to the challenge and take the hard way out.

For some of us difficult times mean an opportunity to reinvent ourselves and one person who knows all about reinventing herself is Madonna. It’s been over 20 years and she’s still commanding audiences the world over and minting millions through record sales all because she knows how to keep both her style and her music one step ahead of the rest.

When bad situations arise, most people decide to grumble and make a lot of noise instead of looking at the opportunities that lay hidden. Look, if it’s so easy to be successful do you really think the world will be in the situation it’s in right now? You have to be smart and sharp. Look out for others might miss and don’t see at all.

There are many opportunities that are available – you just need to stick your nose in the right place and sniff it out. If you’re angry with me for saying this because it’s so easy to say it and not tell you where to look, then you should give yourself a knock on the head for wanted to be spoon fed and you don’t deserve to be successful for being lazy.

Half the fun of being successful is the journey to take to get there. Sure it’s not always fun and games – but you need to persevere and the lessons you learn from it will make you truly an entrepreneur from the school of hard knocks – no business degree could be better.

Why You’re Still Dumb, Sick and Broke!

2008-10-24T09:00:00.000+08:00

You’ve attended every single get-rick-quick seminar and internet success talk you can but there are still no results. All you do is hear what it is being said but you do nothing about it. In case you’re wondering why the earth hasn’t moved for you yet, these are reasons why:

1. You don’t know how to manage money. Fancy offices and high salaries are great ways to blow money. You need to learn when to spend your money and when you should not. For example, if your employees want fancy desks or cubicles, when it will not help them do their job better, tell them no. But if someone wants two monitors so he or she can be more productive, then buy the second monitor.

2. You don’t have multiple game plans. You can’t rely on one person, one business model, or even one solution. Things you can’t predict happen, so the best thing you can do is have multiple game plans.

3. You don’t learn from your mistakes. It is natural to make mistakes, but good entrepreneurs make few mistakes. The easiest way you can reduce the amount of mistakes you will make is by learning from others.

4. You aren’t agile enough. You have to be able to adapt quickly. If you aren’t able to adapt to market changes, someone else will.

5. You think you know everything. The reality is, you know very little. So instead of thinking you know everything, find others who are smarter than you.

6. You think you can do everything. There is only 24 hours in a day, and sleeping takes up a lot of it. I know you may be a jack of all trades, but find people who can help you out. By specializing on tasks you will become more efficient and get more done.

7. You don’t network with others. If you meet new people on a regular basis, sooner or later you will run into people that can help you out. Surprisingly, there are tons of people out there who are willing to lend a helping hand for FREE. Make sure you go to industry events, local mixers, and join any entrepreneur groups.

8. You don’t love what you do. Money is great, but everything shouldn’t revolve around it. You are more likely to succeed if you are doing what you love. Usually when you are doing things you love, you will spend more time and put more effort into it.

9. You don’t have a good work ethic. Laziness is something many of us pick up from working 9 to 5 jobs. But when you are running your own business you have to be willing to put in time. And more importantly when you working, you have to learn to be productive.

10. You aren’t aggressive enough. Don’t expect things to be handed to you or for doors to open up when you want them to. You have to be a go-getter and if you aren’t one, you better learn how to become one.

Think It’s Easy Being a Successful Entrepreneur?

2008-10-22T09:00:00.000+08:00

There are quite a number of people who like to daydream about this. Being a successful entrepreneur is a task that many people wish that they could accomplish. Achieving the feat of being a successful entrepreneur means that you are in charge of your own destiny and independent in your own wealth creation.

If you look at the people in the past that have achieved this dream, a common thread seems to emerge. Actually, many common threads emerge as characteristics typical of an entrepreneur. Some common characteristics that entrepreneurs exude are: common sense, being a problem solver, determination, using money as a measure, hard work, complexity on thinking, being a good net-worker, and their confidence. This list seems to be all inclusive, but it isn't.

Some of these characteristics can inter-relate back to one-another. Having “common sense” means that you can rationalize a situation and deal with it in a manner that is feasible and practical. This can relate to ways to solve problems in the same mannerisms. An entrepreneur has common sense and is able to make a practical judgment on a problem or question that arises.

Being an entrepreneur is a lot more than taking out a bank loan and starting your own business. For the record this is what it means: Entrepreneur, translated from its French roots, means "one who undertakes." The term is used to refer to anyone who undertakes the organization and management of an enterprise involving independence and risk as well as the opportunity for profit. An entrepreneur, typically, is inspired to start a business because the entrepreneur perceives a consumer need that is not being adequately filled.

The most important thing that an entrepreneur must have is common sense. If you don’t have that, or worse – don’t know what it is, I suggest your find out first before deciding to fire your boss. Otherwise you’ll be out on your behind in no time – and that would be a shame.

Leaders With Scandals

2008-10-20T09:00:00.000+08:00

You don’t need to watch re-runs of soap operas here when you can get all the drama you want just by observing our political leaders. From being accused of murder to being arrested for bribery charges enough to rival the Watergate scandal, here we have stories that can curl the hair – especially those told over teh tarik sessions.

The worse part about all of this is that a lot of them don’t learn from their mistakes. I mean, I’m sure they read the papers right? And even worse, they probably would have come in contact with the accused at one time or another. Even with observing something like this so up close and personal, they still go and do stupid things. If you’re stupid enough to get caught doing it, then you deserve what’s coming.

What’s clearly missing is integrity in leadership. "Leadership by example" is still one of the best approaches in leading the human capital. The story below often used to coach can best illustrate this point.

There is a story about a lady who brought her sweet-loving son to Mahatma Ghandi. She hopes that some wise counselling will convince the boy to stop eating the sweets that were obviously bad for him. The great leader told the lady to bring her son back to him in a week.

The week went by and the lady brought her son back to Gandhi who very simply told the boy to stop eating too many sweets as they can be harmful. The lady was astonished and a little upset stating that this could have been told to the boy the previous week. This is the reply she received from Gandhi," I myself used to take sweets till last week. I needed a weeks' time to quit eating sweets so that I could counsel your son with conviction".

Scandals happen in the absence of integrity. People get greedy not just in terms of money, but also power and status. When we try to get that extra bit through illegal and unnatural means, we upset the scales. And just like in nature, you know very well what happens when there is am imbalance – get ready for some chaos.

It’s time for the serving leader to emerge.

Shocking Stats: 85% of all Businesses Fail within First 5 Years

2008-10-17T09:00:00.000+08:00

It’s a well known fact that the failure rate for small businesses is extremely high. We have heard the statistics, but what are the reasons? These are the apparent business failure rate as the years roll by:

First : 85%
Second: 70%
Third: 62%
Fourth: 55%
Fifth: 50%
Sixth: 47%
Seventh: 44%
Eighth: 41%
Ninth: 38%
Tenth: 35%

These statistics are, of course, reflective of small businesses in general. Nonetheless, it can be deduced that no matter what industry you are in, there is a high failure rate, and generally speaking, the top three issues or reasons for small business failure are relatively consistent.

Almost every study or report indicates the main reason for small business failure is improper planning and expectations. When we dig deeper into these reports, there are three critical areas of planning that are often overlooked or underestimated:

1. Financial requirements to get the business started.
2. Generating/developing business and revenue.
3. Managing and controlling growth.

It is the small business owners who are able to figure out how to accomplish and overcome the challenges that accompany those three critical areas who will typically enjoy a long, fruitful business life. The variable is figuring out how to do it. Most small business owners are very proficient at the product they supply or service they deliver.

It is rare that a small business fails because the owner does not understand what they are doing.

So before you get excited as the prospect of being your own boss, please have an expert understanding of what it is you want to do. Don’t just talk to people who have succeeded, speak to those who haven’t as well because it’ll help you to really understand what goes into sustaining a business – learn from their mistakes and don’t have a repeat performance.

Amazing Race Asia – Our Malaysian Participants Make Us Proud!

2008-10-15T09:00:00.000+08:00

Malaysians can be quite a hardy bunch. And of late, we’ve been witnessing a lot of tenacity from Ida Nerina, Tania Khan, Bernie & Henry Chan – the Malaysian contestants for The Amazing Race Asia – Season 3.

These participants are testimony to what we can do once we set out minds to it – and the journey we choose to take in order to get there.

While it’s great to win, it’s also important that you get there with some amount of dignity. You want people to be rooting for you, not wishing that you’ll fall off the mountain or get horribly lost.

Our Malaysian contestants are great in that they may be impatient with each other – but you don’t see them at each other’s throats. This has been the same with all the other Malaysian contestants in Season 1 and 2.

These are the people who put the “Amazing” in The Amazing Race Asia. Good job to all.

It Takes Two to Tango!

2008-10-13T12:52:00.000+08:00

We conducted a teambuilding session last week for GAB – and what an experience it was. As with all other workshops and teambuilding sessions we’ve conducted, there are always lessons learnt – this one was no different.

Whenever a teambuilding session is conducted, it isn’t just for the client – but also a test of teamwork for us as well. From the time is session in confirmed, everyone bands together to make sure that all items needed are bought, sorted, packed and loaded.

There are times when our fuses go off and our patience wears thin. We’ll also be very tired, exhausted – but we can’t complain about being tired, because this is a job and we’re pulling off a very big production. No matter how tired or hungry we are, it’s always show business as usual and the show must always go on.

When a teambuilding session is conducted, there must always be accountability on both sides – the client and the provider. If a problem or an argument involves two people then both people are responsible for the problem – hence it takes two to tango.

Coordinating a teambuilding session is very much like conducting an orchestra. Everyone must know their place and watch the conductor so they can come in at the right time and not mess up the entire performance.

An event of any kind can only be truly successful if both client and service provider work together and we experienced this with GAB. Of course there was the initial grumbling, complaining and dragging of the feet – but with some pushing and motivation, we saw how a group of entirely different people can come together and make it work.

There were exemplary instances of leadership, dedication, empowerment, accountability and action from both sides. It was a session that will be remembered.

Dirty Politics, Dirt-ier Politicians!

2008-10-10T09:00:00.001+08:00

History shows that these sorts of unsupportable attacks and seemingly childish antics are not new to the politics. Candidates for all sorts of public office have engaged in name calling and public denunciations of their opponents from our earliest days as a nation.

Few campaigns in the modern era have been completely free of dirty politics, which generally means the use of slander, libel, forgery, or other potentially criminal acts to embarrass a political rival.

Dirty politics can occur at any level of public service. Local political candidates often use financial records to embarrass an opponent. Family members and known political associates may also become fair game in dirty politics.

A candidate's mental stability may be challenged, especially if he or she offers up an emotional or overheated response to dirty politics. A negative ad campaign is not always the same as dirty politics, provided the charges in those ads are true and confirmable.

Dirty politics often occur away from the scrutiny of the press, so many examples rarely come to light until years after the campaigns have ended – and this will then result in conspiracy theories which have more truth to them than all the politicians put together.

Multi-Racial Lion Dance – Truly Malaysia

2008-10-08T09:00:00.000+08:00

What do you think keeps us united in a country that is a melting pot of races, cultures and religions? Let’s bring it a little closer to home, what do you think makes this work in Malaysia?

Personally, I don’t think it’s the campaigns of loving Malaysia carried out by the government. I truly believe that we, each and everyone of us are doing what we can to keep scales from tipping over.

We are united because we choose to be, we make the effort because we are wiser for the mistakes of our forefathers. Take the Muhibbah Lion Dance Group for example. Lion dance troupes have long been a mainstay of the Chinese community but here you have 40 members of various races taking a multi-cultural route. And what’s more, the troupe also has two women - a Malay and an Indian.
We should make a stand which does not tolerate stereotypical references to which race is lazy, which race is backstabbing and which race would sell their own mother for a bit of profit.

The next time someone of a similar race as you makes a racial slur, remind them about your mutual racial flaws and highlight that you’re not as perfect as you think you are. It’s these distinctions that make us so alike and yet so unique. It’s not enough that we are proud to be Malaysians – we should be proud of each other and celebrate our differences that bind us together as a nation.

Life’s a BITCH!... if we let it be

2008-10-06T09:00:00.000+08:00

Have you ever asked someone what they had for lunch and they, roll their eyes and say something like, “I had Chicken Rice AGAIN.” And when you say to them if they don’t like it, why not have something else, they reply, “I don’t have a choice.” This is a load of rubbish – and believe me I’ve heard plenty of idiots speak in my lifetime.

Of course you have a choice!

You can decide to wake up a little earlier and make yourself a sandwich for one – or look for other places to try out. You can decide to make life simple, or choose to bitch about every single thing that comes your way. If things are not going well for you, grow a backbone and stop slithering about in self-pity. Pick yourself up and move forward.

Bad break in love? Stop all the crying and wallowing. Tell yourself you’re going to get really successful and win this person back – provided they’re worth the work you’ll be putting in. Otherwise, get successful for yourself. After all, success is the best revenge.

If your job is bringing you down, look for something else that you really want to do. Yes, it’s really that simple. Get out of your comfort zone. Change for the better is never easy – you need to challenge yourself and go through some rough patches in order for you to really appreciate all the good that is in your life. Once that happens, you’ll bitch less and be a nicer person to yourself and those around you.