Jhen Ken And Ke Xin

On the weekend of 21 to 23 October 2016, we welcomed Ke Xin into the family. My cousin Jhen Ken exchanged vows with Ke Xin at Janda Baik and the entire Thoo extended family headed there for the celebrations. 

Having witnessed the wedding and tea ceremonies in the morning, the evening reception was where we let our hair down. Typically, the former required us to be at our best behaviour, respectful of the significance of this milestone in life for the newlyweds. The dinner in the evening on the other hand, provided an opportunity for us to be at ease and to celebrate the happy occasion with enthusiasm and free spirit. 

Be it dancing, participating in games or giving a toast, actually three toasts to be exact, we lived up to our reputation of being a happy, united and passionate family. I hear that there may have been some comments from some guests that we were a bit loud. Well, that is a Thoo family trademark that we hold dear to our hearts. After all, the purpose of a wedding celebration is indeed one where love, laughter and merriment bind us all together as one big, happy family.

The newlyweds, Jhen Ken and Ke Xin.

PTSD Challenge

Recently my cousin San nominated me to do 22 push ups a day for 22 days consecutively, in support of the cause to spread awareness of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder among war veterans. I believe this originated from the USA but I suppose applies to veterans all over the world. 

I only swim and hardly do any gym work as part of my exercise routine, and as such, push ups are really not something that I would be able to accomplish with good form. I nevertheless decided to be a good sport and accepted San's nomination. 

I have completed 7 days todate and there is still much to improve on in terms of form and stamina. And that is the motivation, to get better over the remaining 15 days of the challenge. Come to think of it, I may just continue the push ups when the 22 days are over, taking a friend's advice to incorporate it into my exercise routine.

Cuz Shan, at Swensen's in Koh Samui, Thailand.

Cousins In Town

It's always great to have my cousins who I grew up with in town for the weekend. They came up from Singapore recently to attend my aunt and uncle's 40th wedding anniversary celebrations and we had a great time catching up. 

With these cousins of mine, nothing is off limits when it comes to conversations. Having been close since our childhood, it is a level of comfort that is hard to replicate in other relationships. And this is what makes such reunions so enjoyable.

Banter over food is our preferred choice of activity during such short visits, where time constraints are often a hindrance to an otherwise even better experience. Not to worry though, the next extended family celebration is just round the corner!

Breakfast at Grandpa Bak Kut Teh in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.

Contentment

I had a conversation with a friend lately where I brought up the subject of contentment, how some of us never seem to be contented and instead, continuously go in search of something better. Whilst there are times when something better does come along, more often than not we are left disappointed. 

There are those in a good job who decide to quit and take on a new challenge, despite already being in a good position career-wise. And those who are seemingly happily coupled but who may stray. Or those who feel that they are in a rut at a particular point in life and just want to breakout out of the monotony they seem to languish in. 

At the end of the day, I guess we really ought to rely on our gut to tell us what route to take. Being rational may or may not be plausible, and for me, trusting my instincts will always take precedence. Certainly, one of the more intense topics to chat over tea. 

Artwork in Beijing, China.

Merdeka 2016

What a great way to celebrate Merdeka, with good friends over an indulgent lunch followed by chit-chat over coffee. The original plan was to go for a walk in the morning prior, but that of course did not come to fruition. 

Sharing a meal and banter with friends on Independence Day has much meaning, particularly so when these are friends whom I first got to know during early childhood, in primary school in fact. Those were the days when our outlook in life was shaped, where we did not pay too much attention to our ethnicities, a trait I would like to think many of us still carry with us.

As we embark on a another year in our nation's journey, here's to peace, harmony, equality and happiness to all Malaysia! 

Lunch at Jaipur Curry House in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Champion In Our Hearts

Three times a silver medallist at the Olympics - Beijing, London and now Rio - one must feel for Lee Chong Wei, especially us Malaysians. To come so close to reaching the pinnacle of sport, it must be somewhat disheartening at times for the standard-bearer of Malaysian badminton. However, how many athletes can lay claim to winning three silver medals at three successive Olympic Games?

Sure, there will always be those who have done better, but there are many, many more who will never achieve the level of success that Chong Wei has achieved. He ought to be proud, and so do we. We certainly will him on during important matches, and go along for the emotional ride each time, as individuals and as a nation. 

A champion in our hearts, always.

Chong Wei at Rio 2016.

So Close In Rio

Two gold medal points, that was how close we were to getting our first ever Olympic gold medal. Not fancied to make the men's doubles badminton final, Goh V Shem and Tan Wee Kiong really played their hearts out throughout the tournament. 

The final was a pressure-filled affair which went to three games. Malaysians collectively held our breath when the boys took turns to serve during the two match points. It was not meant to be. Nevertheless, they did us proud by putting their best foot forward. The experience gained in Rio will certainly serve them well in time to come. 

A silver medal is an incredible achievement at the Olympic level. Well done V Shem and Wee Kiong! May the future hold much success. 

Tan Wee Kiong and Goh V Shem in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Another Historic Silver

Goh Liu Ying and Chan Peng Soon won a historic silver for the country in the mixed doubles in badminton at Rio2016. Although the entire country was hoping for gold, the display by the pair throughout the tournament is something to be proud of. 

Coming back from injury and beating pairs ranked much higher than them, Liu Ying and Peng Soon certainly brought much excitement to fans back home who were cheering them on. Winning silver when no one expected them to is very much the icing on the cake.

Here's to greater achievements in the future.

Silver medallists at Rio2016. 

Historic Cycling Medal

Azizulhasni Awang became the first Malaysian cyclist to win a medal at the Olympics, capturing bronze in the men's Keirin at Rio2016. It is wonderful to see the strides taken by some of our athletes on the world stage, fulfilling their aspirations and bringing honour to the country at the same time. 

Doing well at the international stage, in particular at the Olympics, generates immense national pride that brings all of us together in celebration. 

Thank you Azizulhasni for bringing us such joy with your performance.

Bronze in Rio2016.

Silver in Rio2016

Pandelela and Jun Hoong earned Malaysia's first medal at Rio2016 and the entire country swelled with pride at their achievement. To see how the country's diving squad has evolved and improved over the years is a testament to the long-term planning and vision of those overseeing the sport. To be on the Olympic podium is a great achievement indeed.

It is during times of such success that the sense of pride and harmony in the country truly comes to the fore, bringing all of us together as one. As the rest of the Malaysian contingent continue to do battle in their respective sporting disciplines in Rio, we will be cheering them on in spirit. 

Malaysia Boleh!

Silver medallists in the women's 10m platform diving.

Smile Medal Winners!

Often at the Olympic Games, it is interesting to see the difference in the attitudes of some athletes when they win silver or bronze rather than gold. Sure, the ultimate goal is to be on top of the podium, but becoming a silver or bronze medallist is a pretty significant feat too I would think. But some of the glum expressions on the lower steps of the podium certainly do not attest to such a narrative. 

With that said, it is therefore extremely uplifting when we see second and third place finishers celebrate with pure joy, honouring the hard work that have been put in and sacrifices that have been made in preparation to be amongst the best in the world. Be it tears brought on by emotion or massive hugs with team-mates, the smiles on the faces of these athletes truly exemplify the spirit of sportsmanship, that having earned a medal is just the icing on the cake, and that the act of participation with one's fellow athletes is what matters more. 

Although no successful sportsman myself, I do believe that the joy of participation is under-rated and should be the focus, rather than just aiming for that Olympic gold medal. For the many who participate and who will never win a medal, I think this certainly holds true. 

Tom Daley and Daniel Goodfellow celebrate winning bronze for Great Britain in the men's platform synchronised diving at Rio 2016. 

Olympic Park In Beijing

With the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympics coming up next month, it seems appro-priate to have visited the Olympic Park in Beijing a couple of weeks back. 

I remember vividly watching the 2008 Olympic Games, awed by the stunning images of the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube, venues in which the best in the world showed off their athletic prowess and revelled in their performances after much training and sacrifice. To see these architectural feats in person is indeed an experience that I am grateful for. 

When upfront with these innovative structures, one gets a sense of inspiration. Inspiration to move forward with faith and hope, embracing the challenges and rewards that life has to offer. Indeed, I see such inspiration as a catalyst to work towards greater things in life.

Trying to run at the Olympic Park in Beijing, China.

The Great Wall Of China

When I first told my Mum about my trip to Beijing, she asked if a visit to the Great Wall of China was in the itinerary. I said I wasn't sure and made a comment that it would be fine with me if it was not, to which she replied how she couldn't imagine a trip to Beijing without seeing the Great Wall. 

Fortunately, it was one of the first few stops of the itinerary, and any hesitancy I had about the energy and effort required to trek the wall dissipated when its magnificence revealed itself and the fantastic views it accorded made the arduous trek, for me at least, worthwhile. 

The decision to head to the Mu Tian Yu section of the Great Wall was a well-taken one. Apparently less touristic and with much less of a crowd compared to Ba Da Ling, we were able to take our time on ascents and descents, with many a photo opportunity secured. As time goes by, I am sure I will appreciate even more the chance I had to see in person one of the seven wonders of the world. 

Mu Tian Yu section of the Great Wall of China.

A First To Beijing

Travelling with friends for the first time, even good friends I might add, is a somewhat delicate expe-rience. Although we may know each other well, being in close proximity and having to navigate the decision-making process for almost a week, is a challenge that will either strengthen our friendships or otherwise. 

Having accepted an invite to visit Beijing with two friends leading up to the Hari Raya holidays, the intent to keep an open mind and to be flexible in terms of sightseeing and food was a wise move, resulting in an immensely enjoyable trip, and friendships that are now on an even more solid footing. 

With this visit to Beijing being a first for me, I appreciated the care and effort taken to introduce me to the city and its many attractions as well as its cuisine. Attention to detail is a boon when travelling with a hotelier amongst us, and the opportunity to experience the hospitality of two of the leading hotels in the city is something to remember. A progressive city that values the past, lovely weather and good company make for an enjoyable trip indeed. 

Johan, Brennen and I at Today Art Museum in Beijing, China.

LBAF

I have a friend who is turning forty in about a week and he is not taking it too well I suspect. For the past few months, he has been lamenting about this new approaching milestone and how age is catching up, too quickly I might add. 

Another friend and I have been trying to lessen the blow somewhat. LBAF we say! And we are fine examples of that, if I may say so myself. As far as I am concerned, age is only a number and how one chooses to live life is what matters. Mindset is also important, and one that epitomises a positive outlook and enthusiastic disposition will ensure that one remains young at heart, regardless of what the number might indicate. 

So, as my friend starts a new decade of life soon, we wish him all the finer things that his forties will bring. All he needs to do is to keep an open mind and embrace the wonderful experiences that will come his way. 

Photo shot in Koh Lipe, Thailand.

Extended Family

I was telling a friend a few days ago that I was just in Hong Kong to witness the nuptials of my cousin Faiman and Camil, to which this friend commented that I had an extremely large extended family. I think that for some in my generation, a sizeable extended family is not too uncommon. Both my parents have numerous siblings, my grandparents too. The question is whether we make the effort to nurture relationships with such family members. 

The truth is, there are many relations whom we have already lost touch with, otherwise, my family would be even bigger. My aspiration is always to keep in touch with those who I have established relationships. It is not always easy. There are time constraints, at times language barriers, there is the distance for some, apathy from others, well, we can make as many excuses as we want to. But for those who make the effort like I do, I reciprocate. And the nascent bonds at the onset hopefully develop into long-lasting ones. 

There are those who are averse to building such relationships. I am not one of them. And as time catches up with us, the more I realise how important it is to have such family in my life. And therein lies the promise. 

Camil and Faiman at their wedding at Tin Shui Wai in Hong Kong.

Guilty Pleasures

Sometimes it is the simple pleasures that offer us some solace from the stress that is part and parcel of our work day. I get irritated easily, especially when deadlines are not met, when co-workers or collaborators are lackadaisical, when carelessness leads to delays, when clients are indecisive ... that's quite a list, no wonder the irritation. 

Anyway, back to my point. In times of stress, the simple pleasure that comforts me is a snack, a guilty pleasure no less. I can always count on a teh tarik, or perhaps a bag of chips, or a bar of chocolate, even better a slice of cake or multiple handfuls of cookies. Not entirely a healthy habit in the minds of the health-conscious but I am more than happy to indulge myself.

I don't smoke, I don't drink, but I have my share of indulgence. And if it puts me in a better disposition, I think why not? A few extra laps at the pool later will have to compensate. 

Toasted bun with butter and condensed milk plus a milk tea at Tsui Wah in Hong Kong. 

Catch Up In Hong Kong

I was recently in Hong Kong for my cousin's wedding. I made it a point to arrive a day earlier from Kuala Lumpur before other members of my family so that I would have some time to catch up with a few friends, two Malaysians who live in Hong Kong and two locals. 

I have always been one to realise the importance of nurturing friendships and keeping in touch, and whilst our busy lives may prove challenging to do so, a little effort and proper time management help. Some forward planning - locking down dates and times to meet ahead of my trip - made it possible to catch up over a meal. Food aside, the highlight is certainly the conversation. Updates on the latest changes in our lives, personal revelations and the like, you get my drift. 

In the age of connectivity via social media, such gatherings in person are catalysts for maintaining the momentum online. The trick is to find a few minutes here and a couple of minutes there of free time, to just send a short message to say hi. We can then take it from there.

Mong Kok MTR in Kowloon, Hong Kong.

Penang Fam Trip

I was in Penang recently for a fam trip organised by Penang Global Tourism. Happy I was to have been able to meet and establish new friendships with wedding planners from Singapore and Hong Kong who were invited to see for themselves what Penang has to offer as a destination for weddings. 

Though rather hectic, it nevertheless gave us the opportunity to get to know one another and to visit the many venues that can host weddings, be it beach weddings, heritage or cultural celebrations. I also took the opportunity to extend my stay by a day in order to catch up with our local wedding partners in Penang. Some of these vendors have been long-time partners of weddingsmalaysia, and many have become good friends of mine. Having said that, we also look forward to nurturing nascent relationships that we have recently established with our newer partners. 

Over coffee and cake, we had the chance to catch up on the latest happenings, both in our work as well as in our personal lives. Taking the time to connect is always worthwhile.

Afternoon tea at D'Fat Mona Lisa Cafe in Penang, Malaysia.

Koh Lipe

Going on a holiday for the first time with friends is a somewhat interesting experience. Although we know each other well, a trip abroad is a more intimate experience and it is when one really gets to know the other on a more personal basis. 

I normally take a laissez-faire approach when it comes to such holidays. I let my friends decide on the flight plans, the travel itinerary, the activities to take part in, the restaurants to go to. I just go with the flow. Too many cooks spoil the broth is an adage I adopt when it comes to group travel, more so when it is a virgin trip with friends. 

My recent trip to Koh Lipe with Laura and Victor was one such trip. A beautiful island, though a tad troublesome to get to, it provided us with an opportunity to unwind and to relax amidst natural surrounds, with good company. Lazing on the beach on most days, enjoying meals with spectacular views, what more can one ask for. 

Victor, Laura and I at The Cliff, Koh Lipe, Thailand.