Kuala Lumpur Truly 1Malaysia

The 2010 Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay

2010-06-10T18:25:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Commonwealth Games Baton Relay Fun Run will be held at DATARAN MERDEKA in the morning of 13th June 2010 at 7.30 am. The Run will be over 5 Km. The objective of the Fun Run is to publicise and support the XIX Commonwealth Games Delhi 2010, which will be held from 3rd to 19th October 2010.

In 1998, Kuala Lumpur became the first Asian city to host a Commonwealth Games. 12 years later, in 2010, the Commonwealth Games is returning to Asia, when Delhi hosts the XIX Commonwealth Games from 3rd to 12th October 2010. All sports fans and running enthusiasts are invited to participate in this very meaningful Fun Run to commemorate the XIX Commonwealth Games, which is only the second time being held in Asia.

The entry fee is RM10/= per participant, who will get a very attractive 2010 Queen’s Baton Relay Souvenir T-shirt and a Participation Certificate. There will also be some lucky draw prizes. Entry forms are available from the Office of OCM and FTAAA, at Wisma OCM, Jalan Hang Jebat, Kuala Lumpur.

OCM had organized similar Fun Runs for the Manchester 2002 Commonwealth Games Baton Relay at KLCC and the Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch Relay at Dataran Merdeka. Both the Fun Runs were very successful.

2010 Queen’s Baton Relay Fun Run Souvenir T-Shirt (front)

2010 Queen’s Baton Relay Fun Run Souvenir T-Shirt (back)

2010 Queen’s Baton Relay Participation Certificate.

2010 Queen’s Baton Relay Entry Form cover page

2010 Queen’s Baton Relay Entry form

2002 Queen’s Baton Relay. A group of children and parents from the British community in Kuala Lumpur at the Queen’s Baton Relay at KLCC.

2002 Queen’s Baton Relay. A group of schoolgirls with the Queen’s Baton at KLCC.

Runners at the start of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch Relay Fun Run at Dataran Merdeka on 20th April 2008.

Another view of the runners at the start of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch Relay Fun Run at Dataran Merdeka on 20th April 2008.

Some runners racing to the finishing point of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch Relay Fun Run at Dataran Merdeka on 20th April 2008.

A group of young runners with the Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch after the Fun Run at Dataran Merdeka on 20th April 2008.

A group of young runners with the Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch after the Fun Run at Dataran Merdeka on 20th April 2008.

Some runners with the Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch after the Fun Run at Dataran Merdeka on 20th April 2008.

1Federal Territories Day joy for everyone

2010-02-01T22:24:00.001-08:00

KUALA LUMPUR: The elderly and the disabled were not left out of the Federal Territories Day joy at Dataran Merdeka here this morning to embody this year's theme, '1 Wilayah Perseketuan, Maju dan Sejahtera' (1Federal Territory , Progress and Prosperity).

Veteran participant Atan Bakar, 84, caught the crowd's attention with his fifth appearance in the cycling event.
"God bless, I am still able to cycle till today and I will continue doing so for as long as my health permits," said the retiree who has been involved in the sport for the past 62 years.
The cycling event was flagged off by Youth and Sports Ministry's deputy chief secretary (operations), Datuk Mohid Mohamed. Another eye-catching activity was the Sports for OKU (the disabled).
National wheelchair basketball athlete Fazlan Ismail, 30, said he is happy that his team is given the chance to showcase their talent in the three-on-three wheelchair basketball match today. Fazlan has been playing the sport since 2002.
"I am grateful that the disabled are given an avenue to prove themselves through sports."
The disabled also participated in goal ball, boccia (lawn bowling), soft tennis and wheelchair racing.
The FT Day celebration kicked off last night with the Ambang 1Wilayah Persekutuan concert.
There will be some 40 events to mark the occasion until Feb 21. Organising committee member Hendra Haizad Abd Hamid said this morning event involved more than 2,000 participants.
Among the activities lined up from 8am today were marching, explorace, telematch, cycling and paintball.

Malay Mail

Dementieva Will Return For Malaysia Classic Tournament

2009-12-30T01:04:00.000-08:00

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 29 (Bernama) -- After thrilling local tennis fans at the Showdown of Champion 2009 matches on Dec 19 and 20, world number five Elena Dementieva of Russia will return to Malaysia next year.

The 28-year-old Russian star, according to events organiser LD Sports Sdn Bhd, had confirmed her participation for the Malaysia Classics tournament.

The Malaysia Classic tournament is part of the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) Tour competition and is scheduled for the end of February next year.

"Elena will be competing in the Australian Open, followed by Paris, Dubai and KL and she will be happy to return to KL after being given first class hospitality treatment, Malaysian style during the Showdown of Champions," the tennis star's mother, Vera was quoted as saying in the statement issued by the organiser, here on Tuesday.

Dementieva, the gold medalist of the 2008 Beijing Olympic, showed her incredible form during the Showdown of Champions matches held at Stadium Melawati, Shah Alam.

-- BERNAMA

2009-12-30T00:58:00.001-08:00

'Saya tak beli West Ham'

2009-12-23T19:58:00.001-08:00

Tony Fernandes

LONDON - Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes menafikan bahawa dia telah membuat tawaran untuk membeli kelab West Ham meskipun telah mengadakan perbincangan dengan kelab tersebut.

CB Holdings, syarikat yang memiliki West Ham, sedang mencari pelabur baru dan mereka sangat berharap ahli perniagaan dari Malaysia itu bersetuju membeli 51 peratus saham dalam kelab Liga Perdana England itu.

Tony Fernandes merupakan individu yang membawa semula pasukan Lotus ke kancah perlumbaan Formula Satu (F1) tahun depan dan dilihat sebagai alternatif terhadap penjualan West Ham kepada bekas pemilik Birmingham, David Gold dan David Sullivan.

Begitupun, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif syarikat penerbangan tambang murah AirAsia itu menafikan laporan tersebut kepada akhbar London Evening Standard kelmarin.

"Tidak, bukan dalam masa terdekat ini. Saya sedang sibuk menguruskan tentang pasukan F1 saya, jadi ia (pembelian West Ham) bukan sesuatu yang akan saya lakukan," katanya.

Bank dari Iceland, Straumur memiliki saham sebanyak 70 peratus dalam syarikat CB Holdings dan telah menolak tawaran sekitar £50 juta (RM274.2 juta) daripada Gold dan Sullivan ke atas kelab yang dianggarkan bernilai £120 juta (RM658 juta) itu.

Tony Fernandes yang meminati kelab West Ham mengakui bahawa masa depan kelab yang menduduki tangga kedua terbawah Liga Perdana England itu tidak begitu cerah.

"Saya sangat risau tentang masa depan West Ham. Mereka dalam keadaan genting sekarang ini dan cara pengurusan kewangan juga teruk," kata Tony.

"Peminat kelab ini, termasuk saya mahukan yang terbaik, tetapi kedudukannya tidak begitu bagus untuk menarik pelabur baru." - Agensi

Festivities Effective Tool To Foster Unity And Tolerance

2009-12-23T19:56:00.000-08:00

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 23 (Bernama) -- Festivities have become an effective tool in fostering greater unity, understanding and mutual respect among Malaysians under the spirit of 1Malaysia.

MIC president Datuk Seri S.Samy Vellu said Christmas and other festivities had been more effective in fostering a "greater unity" spirit among Malaysians and it was only through such festivities that Malaysians had the opportunity to truly value and understand each other's cultural differences.

"Its (festivities) uniqueness is that people will set aside whatever differences, and come together as 1Malaysia," he said in his Christmas greetings.

He said Malaysia had been successful in managing its race relations since independence "simply because we realise that we need each other to survive".

MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat said that over the years, mutual respect and understanding had become the socia l fabric that held together this nation whose people are of diverse origins.

"For that social fabric to remain strong, we need to continue moving away from mere tolerance and foster mutual respect, understanding and even acceptance.

"But, particularly at this time of goodwill, we must remember those who are less fortunate than ourselves or for whom success in life is not so easy and for whom ambitions and New Year resolutions are only a fantasy," he said in his Christmas greetings posted in his blog.

Ong said that while the government was committed to a people-first mission it could not solve everyone's problems and communities, families and individuals must do more for themselves.

Christmas, he said, was an opportunity to spend some quality time with the family and to resolve to do better next year.

People's Progressive Party (PPP) president Datuk M. Kayveas, in his greetings, said Malaysians were able to celebrate Christmas with joy and in peace because all strata of the society were united in the 1Malaysia spirit.

However, they should beware of external elements out to break the strong ties between the various races and religions under the guise of Human rights and democracy, he said.

-- BERNAMA

MURNInet - 'Gauge' On Sustainable Town

2009-12-23T19:52:00.000-08:00

By Rohana Mustaffa

This is the second feature from a series of three on urban development.

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 24 (Bernama) -- When Shah Alam was adjudged the most sustainable town inconjunction with the recent World Town Planning Day celebration, the spotlight fell on the criteria that made the city to be accorded the recognition.

Shah Alam, the state capital of Selangor, was among the 46 towns assessed and found to be the town that exhibit the highest level of sustainability based on 56 indicators in 11 sectors -- demography, housing, economy, utility and infrastructure, public facility, environment, sociology and social impact, landuse, tourism and heritage, transportation and accessibility, management and finance.

The indicators were developed by the Town and Country Planning Department and named the Malaysian Urban Indicators Network (MURNInet). The objective of MURNInet is to determine the level of sustainability for each town in the country.

Its main aim is to identify the strength and weaknesses of each town according to these indicators.

The MURNInet application system was created based on a computer network designed to analyse the present urban conditions, effects of development, survey temporal changes and formulate sustainable urban scenarios for the future based on fixed standards.

OPPORTUNITY FOR IMPROVEMENT

MURNInet is to suggest the opportunity for improvement in order to upgrade the level of sustainability.

Specifically, MURNInet aims to gauge the progress made by a town towards meeting sustainable development, drawing attention to the development predicament faced by a town and clarify the environmental features complementing the direction towards sustainable development.

MURNInet, while identifying specific issues that needed to be resolved in a town, also recognises the relevant agencies that can provide collaboration and assistance towards achieving the objectives of a sustainable town apart from drawing the attention on the need to reinforce the capacity building on data and statistic collection.

The sustainability of Shah Alam and other towns under the MURNInet is gauged in terms of the demography such as population density, average annual population growth, median age and average household size.

SUSTAINABLE TOWN INDICATORS

For the housing sector, the indicator is the housing price to income ratio, housing rental ratio against income, individual floor space ratio and percentage of non-selling housing stock.

MURNInet measures the economic sector of a town via indicators such as the unemployment rate, job growth rate and others.

Meanwhile, the total daily garbage collection and doctors to the population ratio are indicators for the utility and infrastruture sector while the indicator for environment sector involves the number of asthma cases per 10,000 population and air quality index.

The social impact in Shah Alam for example is measured through indicators like the crime index per 10,000 population and divorce rate per 1,000 population.

And of course the transportation sector involves indicators like the quality level of public bus services and percentage of public bus users.

WHO BENEFITS FROM MURNInet?

MURNInet gives significance to the federal and state governments in evaluating the appropriate financial assistance for a town that exhibits unsustainability and to improve services to the public.

The indicators of MURNInet can be made as basic evaluation to upgrade an urban area's status and urban indicators can be made as measurement for the government to channel investments.

For the local authorities, MURNInet indicators can be used to identify problems, urban quality issues and addressing those issues, to improve service levels to the public and to provide feedback to national integrity plan target.

With the presence of MURNInet to measure the service level, facilities level in an urban area or local authority, it shows the government is sensitive with the problems and improve the service and provides allocation to resolve the problems faced by the residents.

IMPLEMENTATION

The implemnetation of MURNInet is crucial for a town to have the basic data for sustainability indicators.

The other significance of MURNInet is identifying and measuring the level of a town's issues and quality, can act on issues that represented the unsustainable indicators and the basic data can systematically stored and easily retrieved.

MURNInet allows the City State Report to submit the findings as well as proposals for quality and sustainable town development.

The criterion for MURNInet urban indicators is actually applicable for all urban hierarchy and size, measureable through data collected at local or district level and the data is readily gathered and cost effective to collect them.

The indicators given by MURNInet are also easily measurable and the data is able to show the magnitude of the problem. The benchmarking is based on international standard, national standard, technical departments guidelines and pilot study and continuing programme.

PILOT PROJECT

MURNInet utilises three measurements on sustainability where the town that gets the score of 80 per cent and above is categorised as sustainable, the score between 50 and 80 per cent is considered under the moderate category while the town with the score lower than 50 per cent is categorised as having unsustainable development.

The pilot project for MURNInet was implemented in six towns -- Kuching, Georgetown, Batu Pahat, Pasir Mas, Kuantan and Johor Baharu. The monitoring was expanded to eight more towns in 2004.

As of June this year, the programme was implemented in 75 local authorities and the monitoring was done every six months with the naming of the most sustainable town done once a year.

MURNInet differs from other 'markers' in Malaysia as it comprises 11 components of town planning that covers up to 56 indicators, uses a computerised system to produce results, automatically, fast and accurate and the sustainability of a town is measured based on the stipulated high standards.

The website for MURNInet is at http://www.townplan.gov.my/murninet. Overall, its function is to complement the implementation of the sustainable town indicators and its findings asisted in town development planning apart from providing the reference centre and information retrieval related to sustainable town study projects.

MURNInet also provide various modules on the integrated basis to help the various parties including the local authorities to compile data on making the decision at the town planning level.

-- BERNAMA

Social Infrastructure Can Boost Economy

2009-12-23T19:51:00.002-08:00

KOTA KINABALU, Dec 23 (Bernama) -- The development of infrastructure to meet the social needs of the people can boost the economic growth of Sabah, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said.

"Sabah has many moderm infrastructure which can be used to hold events to encourage a healthy lifestyle, culture and tourism activities. It will also foster goodwill among the people," he said when closing the Education Ministry sports and cultural festival here on Wednesday.

Musa said the state government appreciates the federal government's efforts to expand access to quality education in Sabah. His text of speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Yahya Hussin.

He said efforts to create quality human capital could not be achieved without the hardwork, dedication and sacrifices by Education Ministry staff, particularly those serving rural and remote areas.

"The state government has given a big allocation to develop the Sandakan Education Hub for the building of institutions of higher learning, training and skills centres for the public and private sectors," he added.

-- BERNAMA

"Sahabat 1Malaysia" Can Enjoy Shopping Cash Rewards

2009-12-23T19:51:00.001-08:00

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 23 (Bernama) -- MyKad holders who register as "Sahabat 1Malaysia" (1Malaysia Pal) can enjoy cash rewards when shopping at 500 companies which support the campaign nationwide, according to MRewards International Sdn Bhd which will run the programme.

MRewards International Sdn Bhd group managing director Tan Hang Ming said today almost 10,000 people had signed up as Sahabat 1Malaysia. Registration is free.

"So far, the registration is done at our booths during the campaign or at exhibitions organised by the government. The programme will only be launched in January," he told a news conference to announce the Sahabat 1Malaysia Membership of the Information Communication and Culture Ministry, here.

Director-General of Broadcasting Datuk Ibrahim Yahaya said one of the objectives of the programme was to garner information on the membership and response to the 1Malaysia concept introduced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

"It is also a gauge on the effectiveness of the 1Malaysia concept among the people, which is a KPI (Key Performance Indicator) of RTM (Radio Televisyen Malaysia)," he said.

Ibrahim said the programme would promote solidarity among consumers and the owners of the companies via the 1Malaysia concept in the economy.

Among the participants of the programme are EON Bank Group, Tourism Malaysia and England Optical Group.

Details of the programme can be obtained from the www.sahabat1malaysia.com website.

-- BERNAMA

'Health Tourism' Increasingly Popular in Asia

2009-12-23T19:50:00.000-08:00

Medical tourism brought in $1 billion in 2007 and that is expected to triple by 2012, when the Health Ministry expects more than two million medical tourists.

Ron Corben | Bangkok 22 December 2009

Photo: AP

James McLaurin of the United States recovers from surgery at Bumrungrad International hospital Friday, Oct. 20, 2006, in Bangkok, Thailand

Asia is being seen as a growth center in the globalization of health services thanks to rising demand from developed countries as well as the region's expanding middle class. But there are concerns that so-called medical tourism will shift resources away from public to private health care systems.

Over much of the past 10 years Thailand has led the growing medical tourism market, as foreigners sought lower cost health services and ready access to treatment.

The services available range from complicated cardiac surgery, to cosmetic surgery to dentistry and even alternative care, such as Chinese medicine, yoga and traditional Ayurvedic treatments.

Rising international travel and the availability of information on the Internet have boosted the number of travelers seeking treatment.

In Thailand, as many as 1.4 million visitors arrived seeking medical care in 2007, the most recent year numbers are available - up from half a million in 2001. Medical tourism brought in $1 billion in 2007 and that is expected to triple by 2012, when the Health Ministry expects more than two million medical tourists.

The largest numbers come from the European Union, followed by the Middle East and the United States.

Kenneth Mays, international marketing director for Bumrungrad International Hospital in Bangkok, says the high standard of care has been a drawing card.

"Thailand offers a very ideal combination of medical quality and service quality. There are both private and public hospitals and it's very consumer driven because most people pay for their own medical care. Americans will come here because its 60 to 80 percent less expensive for equivalent treatment," said Mays.

But Thailand faces growing competition as more countries invest in medical services. Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea and the Philippines are all promoting medical tourism.

Lotus F1 Racing Team Adds Colour, Excitement To Malaysian Motorsports

2009-12-23T19:49:00.000-08:00

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 24 (Bernama) -- The emergence of the Formula One (F1) team from Malaysia, the inconsistent performance of the country's elite athletes for the London Olympics and the success of the Malaysian contingent at the recent SEA Games in Laos made headlines in the country's sports scene in 2009.

Although the year began with the spread of Influenza A(H1N1), resulting in many sports tournaments, locally and abroad, to be cancelled or postponed, the pandemic was contained in Malaysia and this enabled the sports activities for the year to be carried out as planned.

The announcement on the formation of the Malaysia F1 team, the Lotus Racing Team, sponsored by three corporate figures -- Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes, Datuk Kamarudin Meranun and S.M. Nasarudin S.M. Nasimuddin - through the establishment of 1Malaysia Racing Team Sdn Bhd (1MRT), made front-page headlines in all newspapers in Malaysia in September.

The Lotus Racing Team's entry as the 13th team on the F1 grid, as confirmed by the International Automobile Federation (FIA), will make its first appearance at the Bahrain Circuit in March.

Malaysia's involvement, previously, was through the national petroleum company, Petronas, as a partner in the Sauber Petronas and BMW Sauber teams.

The first meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Sports Development held in September and chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, announced an allocation of RM16 million for 2009-2012 for the "Road to London 2012" programme.

Nineteen national athletes are being trained under the programme with the aim of bringing Malaysia's first Olympic gold from the London Games.

Early this year, Malaysia pinned its gold medal hopes on cycling and badminton at the London Olympics, but the hopes were dashed at the end of this season with their dismal performance and the excuse given was that the athletes were tired from taking part in one competition after another.

In cycling, especially the track event, the hope was on Terengganu's Azizulhasni Awang, who won two silver medals in the 200m sprint at the World Track Championship in Poland in March and then two gold medals in the same event at the Asia Cycling Championship in Kalimantan, Indonesia, in August.

His best achievement was winning the Grand Prix Medellin in Colombia in October, defeating world champion Gregory Bauge from France.

Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek was full of praise for the young cyclist, regarding him as Malaysia's "golden boy".

However, Azizulhasni, 21, did not perform as expected at the UCI Track World Cup in Manchester, England and in Melbourne, both held in November, as he was tired and had to also give time to his studies at Deakin University, Melbourne.

The cyclist, nicknamed Pocketrocketman by the foreign media, won a bronze in the Keirin event in Manchester and silver in the same event in Melbourne.

Badminton ace Datuk Lee Chong Wei continues to be world number one men's singles shuttler, winning the super series championships this year - the Indonesia, Switzerland, Malaysia and Hong Kong Open and the World Super Series in Johor Baharu in early December.

He also won the Grand Prix in Malaysia and Macau. But he did not compete in the 25th SEA Games in Laos, giving fatigue as the reason.

National doubles pair of Koo Kien Keat and Tan Boon Heong were back in the top ranking of the World Badminton Federation in early November.

Malaysia is also hoping for gold at the London Olympics in the diving event through Leong Mun Yee and Pandelela Rinong, who won a bronze medal in the World Championship in Rome in June.

For the SEA Games in Vientiane, Laos from Dec 9 to 18, Malaysia sent 348 athletes and 120 officials and they surpassed the 35-medal target by bringing home 40 gold, 40 silver and 59 bronze medals.

Although most of the gold, totaling 15, came from the aquatic events, the one gold medal that Malaysia had been waiting for 20 years was won by the national men's Under-23 football team.

The team, coach by K.Rajagobal, defeated Vietnam 1-0, a victory which could indicate the return of the glory days of Malaysian football.

Malaysia took part in 21 of the 25 sports events at the SEA Games. They were aquatics (swimming, diving), archery, track and field, badminton, snooker & billiard, boxing, cycling, football, golf, judo, karate, silat, petanque, sepak takraw, shooting, ping-pong, tennis, volleyball, weight-lifting, wushu and taekwondo.

It did not take part in four events - soft tennis, wrestling, muay thai and shuttle jiggling.

Malaysia will sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the University of Bath in Britain in February next year to enable Malaysian athletes for the 2012 Olympic Games in London to train there.

-- BERNAMA

Double joy for graphic designer in Blog 4 FT contest

2009-12-23T19:48:00.001-08:00

By BAVANI M

KUALA LUMPUR: It was a “double joy” for freelance graphic designer Nor Emila Mohd Yusof when she won the public category for the Blog 4 FT contest for October and November.

Her cartoon-like illustrations depicting scenic views of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, as well as an illustrated book on fun places to visit and things to do in Kuala Lumpur, impressed the judges.

“I was really surprised when I got a second call informing me that I had won again (for November) because there were many other blogs that were really good,’’ said the 40-year-old from Ampang.

Six-year-old Nadiah Hakim, who won the junior category for November, could not contain her excitement when she received her prize from Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Minister Raja Datuk Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin, who presented the prizes to the monthly winners for the Blog 4 FT contest in Putrajaya last night.

All smiles: Raja Nong Chik (sixth from left) posing for a photograph with the October and November winners of the Blog 4 FT competition at the Lakeside Club in Putrajaya

Her entry, ‘My Scrap Book’, contained snapshots of her friends and visit to Zoo Negara, the Fire and Resuce Department and KLCC.

Five winners were selected for the public and media categories while three winners were chosen for the junior category.

The ministry received a total of 2,750 entries in all categories.

Raja Nong Chik said the contest has managed to promote the spirit of 1Malaysia as entries highlighted racial harmony, spirit of cooperation, and feelings of pride and love towards the country.

For more information, visit www.blog4ft.com

Showdown of Champions 2009 - Russia vs. Asia!

2009-12-16T21:31:00.000-08:00

Dear tennis fans,

GET EXCLUSIVE AUTOGRAPHS AND CATCH THE STARS UP, CLOSE AND PERSONAL IN THE MEET-THE-FAN SESSION AT THE PAVILION KUALA LUMPUR.

TIME: 2.30pm-3.30pm

DATE: Dec 18, 2009.

VENUE : The Pavilion Kuala Lumpur

Program Tentative

Day One - 19 Dec 2009, Saturday
6.00pm	Gates Open
7.30pm	On-Court Entertainment Begins Doubles’ Match – Sania Mirza / Zheng Jie (Asia) v Elena Dementieva / Maria Kirilenko (Russia)
8.25pm	Players Walk On Court
8.35pm	Match Begins End of Match & Day One
Day Two - 20 Dec 2009, Sunday
6.00pm	Gates Open
7.30pm	On-Court Entertainment Begins
8.25pm	Players Walk On Court First Singles’ Match – Zheng Jie (Asia) v Maria Kirilenko (Russia)
8.35pm	Match Begins End of Match followed by Second Singles’ Match – Elena Dementieva (Russia) v Sania Mirza (India) End of Match Followed by Prize Presentation & Awards Ceremony
11.30pm	End

TONY FERNANDES vs RICHARD BRANSON

2009-12-16T19:25:00.000-08:00

Richard Branson in Air Asia uniform

16 December 2009

"Bring it on, the sexier the better." That was the response from Tony Fernandes to Sir Richard Branson's challenge over the loser in the Formula 1 stakes having to dress up as an airline stewardess on the winner's airline - AirAsia or Virgin Atlantic.

The Lotus F1 Racing team, of which Fernandes is Team Principal, has even taken the liberty of picking out a lovely crew uniform for Branson.

"It's quite fitting, don't you think? Our passengers will be delighted to be served by a Knight of the Realm. But, knowing Richard, the real challenge will be to prevent him from asking our guests 'coffee, tea or me?' That would be scary," said Fernandes, who is a founder and Group CEO of AirAsia, Asia's largest low-cost carrier.

http://www.lotusf1racing.my/

Raja Nong Chik meeting with acting Lord Mayor of Melbourne at the Melbourne City Hall.

2009-12-16T18:48:00.000-08:00

Meeting with acting Lord Mayor of Melbourne at the Melbourne City Hall. Dato' Bandar is also here.

Raja Nong Chik meeting with acting Lord Mayor of Melbourne at the Melbourne City Hall.

Sports for ALL

2009-12-16T18:41:00.000-08:00

TIDAK seperti hari-hari minggu yang biasa. Pusat rekreasi Taman Pudu Ulu yang terletak berhampiran Taman Shamelin, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur meriah dengan kehadiran lebih 5,000 orang belia dari seluruh negara.

Di sana berlangsung Karnival Sukan Untuk Semua yang dianjurkan oleh Kementerian Belia dan Sukan dengan kerjasama Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia serta beberapa agensi kerajaan yang lain.

Riuh sejak pukul 7 pagi lagi, karnival itu berkonsepkan kecergasan secara keseluruhan. Ia meliputi kecergasan fizikal, sosial dan psikologi yang menerima penyertaan daripada semua lapisan masyarakat tanpa mengira batasan umur, taraf ekonomi serta latar belakang pekerjaan.

Pertama kali dianjurkan di taman rekreasi seliaan Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL), program itu diadakan dengan satu matlamat, membudayakan gaya hidup yang aktif, cergas, sihat dan produktif.

Timbalan Ketua Pengarah Bahagian Pembangunan Sukan Kementerian Belia dan Sukan, Che Zaharah Abdul Hamid menyatakan program itu juga bertujuan memberi kesedaran kepada belia mengenai kepentingan hidup cergas, di samping menghindari gejala negatif.

"Dengan slogan Cergas 1Belia 1Malaysia, aktiviti gaya hidup yang aktif dan sihat sepanjang hayat dapat mewujudkan suasana interaksi yang mesra serta harmoni antara kaum," jelas Che Zaharah.

Dirasmikan oleh Ketua Pengarah Jabatan Belia dan Sukan Negara, Datuk Fathul Razi Bakri, acara pagi itu dimulakan dengan senam cergas dan lawatan ke gerai-gerai pameran.

SENAMAN cergas pada pagi itu mendapat sambutan hangat daripada kakitangan pelbagai agensi kerajaan dan swasta. Tanpa mengira usia, mereka rancak menggerakkan badan mengikut alunan muzik.

Selepas upacara perasmian berlangsung dengan meriah, semua belia mula membuat persiapan untuk melakukan aktiviti sukan yang disediakan pihak penganjur.

Antara pengisian program termasuklah sukan lasak, sukan bermotor, bola keranjang orang kurang upaya, bola jaring dan ujian kecergasan 'Mari Mencuba'.

Bola keranjang OKU

Paling menarik dalam acara yang dinyatakan tadi ialah sukan bola keranjang orang kurang upaya. Di atas gelanggang bola keranjang itu, penonton berpeluang melihat aksi atlet amatur bermain menggunakan kerusi roda.

Turut mendapat penyertaan ramai ialah sukan lasak skate boarding. Aksi berani para peserta menggunakan papan luncur nyata begitu menghiburkan.

Meluncur di atas papan dan palang besi menjadi cabaran buat peserta yang menyertainya. Bagi yang berjaya melakukan aksi hebat, dialah yang mendapat sorakan ramai.

Bagi seorang pengunjung, Norhashimah Mohd Azmi, 28, program seperti itu memberi peluang kepada belia mengetengahkan bakat terpendam masing-masing.

"Tidak mustahil suatu hari nanti, bakat-bakat 'kampung' yang lahir daripada karnival sukan seperti ini bakal menjadi jaguh sukan ternama.

"Kegiatan seumpama ini bukan sahaja berfaedah untuk mengisi masa lapang, malah dapat merapatkan hubungan sesama ahli keluarga dan antara kaum berbeza," ujar Norhashimah.

Sebilangan besar pengunjung yang pertama kali berada di sana memuji kemudahan taman yang baru dilancarkan pada Disember 2007 itu.

WALL CLIMBING yang ringkas, tetapi mencabar kekuatan fizikal peserta.

Seorang pelajar sebuah institusi pengajian tinggi awam di Ipoh, Nurul Husna Mat Razi, 22, memberitahu dia menghadiri program itu kerana ingin menimba pengalaman, selain tertarik dengan keindahan taman tersebut.

"Banyak kemudahan untuk pengunjung melakukan aktiviti riadah di sini. Menang atau kalah bukan perkara utama. Paling penting semua yang hadir berseronok menyertai program yang disediakan," katanya.

Ketika ditemui, Nurul Husna sedang sibuk memasang kelengkapan untuk merasai pengalaman mendaki dinding.

"Tak ada tempat macam ini di tempat saya (Ipoh), sebab itu saya tidak mahu lepaskan peluang sertai aktiviti sukan lasak yang ada pada hari ini," katanya lagi.

Mari Mencuba

Sambil memakai kelengkapan dia juga sibuk merakam gambar kerana itu merupakan pengalaman pertamanya memanjat dinding di Taman Pudu Ulu.

Tidak kurang menariknya dalam karnival itu ialah acara Mari Mencuba.yang terbuka kepada semua. Acara itu melitputi aktiviti menyumpit, go-kart, fitball dan golf (putting).

Lebih menggembirakan, semua pengunjung yang mengambil bahagian dalam permainan itu menerima cenderahati daripada pihak penganjur atas kesudian mereka menyertainya.

Di gerai-gerai pameran pula, beberapa syarikat pengeluar barangan dan peralatan sukan mempromosikan produk masing-masing dengan pelbagai tawaran istimewa.

Sesuai dengan tema kesihatan dan kecergasan, sesi pemeriksaan kesihatan secara percuma turut diadakan.

Penulis mendapati perjalanan karnival berlangsung dengan lancar. Walaupun hujan renyai seketika, tetapi pengunjung dan peserta yang mengambil bahagian dalam setiap aktiviti langsung tidak berganjak.

SELEPAS penat bersukan, perkhidmatan mengurut ada disediakan untuk melegakan tubuh badan.

Sehingga akhir karnival, rata-rata yang hadir memuji penganjuran karnival yang julung-julung kali diadakan di taman yang dibina dengan kos RM18 juta itu.

Untuk makluman, Taman Pudu Ulu yang mempunyai keluasan 26.7 hektar itu merupakan sebuah taman rekreasi awam moden.

Ia terletak berdekatan dengan kawasan perumahan seperti Taman Miharja, Taman Maluri, Taman Cheras, Pandan Perdana dan Taman Shamelin Perkasa, selain mudah dikunjungi oleh penduduk di Projek Perumahan Rakyat (PPR) Pudu Ulu.

The Kuala Lumpur World Marching Band Competition

2009-12-15T20:16:00.000-08:00

Dec 12-20: Kuala Lumpur will once again play host to one of the most prestigious international marching band competitions in the South-East Asian region: the Kuala Lumpur World Marching Band Competition (KLWMBC) 2009.

More than 20 marching bands from North America, Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific and the Far East are expected to converge in Kuala Lumpur. The KLWMBC is part of an international circuit of marching band competitions sanctioned by the World Association of Marching Show Bands (WAMSB).

Stadium Bola Sepak Kuala Lumpur
Cheras
Tel: (03) 9173 3659/3653/3578/3579

www.klwmbc.com

KUALA LUMPUR . KUALA TERENGGANU . IPOH

The Kuala Lumpur World Marching Band Competition 2009 (KLWMBC '09) was officially launched here by Malaysian Federal Territories Minister Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin on Tuesday.

Scheduled to be held from Dec. 15 to 20, 2009, the KLWMBC'09 is in its third consecutive year and this year the competition is attracting 16 bands to compete for glory.

Participants are from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Cambodia and China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

This year's competition is divided into two categories with the main show band competition held at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium and the drum-line competition held at Berjaya Times Square, a shopping mall in Kuala Lumpur.

The show band competition will be held over a three-day period with the preliminaries held on Dec. 16 and 17, and the grand finals held on Dec. 19 while the drum-line competition will be held on Dec. 18.

Both local and overseas bands will take part in the street parade show although this is not a scheduled competition this year.

The KLWMBC'09 is supported by the Malaysian Tourism Ministry, Education Ministry, Federal Territories Ministry and several other Malaysian authorities such as Tourism Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur City Hall.

The event is endorsed for the third year by the World Association of Marching Show Bands (WAMSB), the international governing body for marching show bands and is put on WAMSB's calendar of events.

Celcom eyes one million broadband customers

2009-12-15T20:04:00.000-08:00

KUALA LUMPUR: Celcom (M) Bhd is gearing up to double the number of its mobile broadband customers to one million next year.

Chief executive officer Datuk Seri Shazalli Ramly said Celcom had 475,000 mobile broadband customers as at Sept 30 and he was confident of breaching the 500,000 mark by year’s end.

“It’s our ambition to reach one million mobile broadband customers next year. That’s our dream. If we fail ... don’t scold us,” Shazalli said at a media briefing yesterday.

He said selling broadband today was very tough in a highly competitive market but Celcom was playing catch-up now.

“Operators including Celcom will be under pressure next year as well given that we have to achieve the Government’s target of having a 50% Internet penetration rate,” he said, adding that mobile broadband would be the company’s major focus next year.

Shazalli said Celcom was also monitoring closely its competitors’ broadband campaigns. “There’s potong-memotong, ciluk-menciluk promotions in the market. We’re closely monitoring those campaigns.”

He added that competition would also arise from incumbent Telekom Malaysia Bhd’s high-speed broadband (HSBB) slated for launching next year.

“We will not be able to provide speed as good as (for) fixed line but we are targeting those on the move with reasonable access on the go,” Shazalli said, adding that Celcom was “semi-proud” that it had the least number of complaints on its broadband service.

Year-on-year, Celcom’s mobile broadband customer base has grown 165% from 179,000 in the first nine months of 2008.

For the third quarter ended Sept 30, Celcom added 55,000 new mobile subscribers.

On revenue contribution, mobile broadband rang up RM245mil in the first nine months against RM71mil in the same period a year earlier.

To a question, Shazalli said to further enhance its broadband services, Celcom would invest in its network and services support next year.

However, he did not disclose the amount of its investment. “We will announce it (investment) when we announce our headline key performance indicators with (parent company) Axiata Group Bhd,” he added.

On its third-quarter performance, Shazalli said it was Celcom’s 14 consecutive quarter of positive growth.

Celcom posted a record profit after tax and minority interest of RM404mil, a 10% growth quarter-on-quarter. Revenue grew 4% to RM1.6bil against RM1.54bil in the preceding quarter.

Its earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation were up 5% to RM716mil from RM682mil posted in the second quarter.

Its total subscriber base surpassed the 10-million mark during the third quarter on a 5% growth over the preceding three months.

Celcom’s postpaid segment average revenue per user (ARPU) in the third quarter dropped to RM94 from RM98 in the preceding quarter, while that for the prepaid segment was maintained at RM42. Blended ARPU was maintained at RM53.

On its lower ARPU, chief financial officer Chari TVT said the telco industry was also experiencing a downtrend.

“The downtrend is mainly due to the competitive landscape and the highly saturated market,” he said.

Shazalli said Celcom expected to end the year as planned in the 2009 key performance indicators.

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NAZA Kia plans to double sales volume with new Kia models

2009-12-15T19:57:00.000-08:00

NAZA Forte

KUALA LUMPUR: Naza Group, through Naza Kia Sdn Bhd, plans to introduce four new Kia models in 2010 and expects to double its sales volume to 26,000 units.

Group executive chairman SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin said the new models would be replacements of the Sportage and Sorento multi-purpose vehicles, the all-new Kia Soul and a Forte coupe model.

“Next year will be an active year where we will launch various new models in different segments,” he said after the launch of the new Kia Forte yesterday.

Models pose with the new Kia Forte at the launch Wednesday.

He said plans were in the pipeline to export the Forte to regional markets such as Thailand, Singapore, Brunei and Indonesia.

“We need to discuss with the principal as we may have to address the supply constraint for the local market first,” he said. The Forte is manufactured at Naza’s Gurun plant in Kedah. Nasarudin said 23% of the group’s 2010 sales would come from the Forte, which represents the brand new design DNA of present and future Kia cars.

“We are optimistic of achieving 6,000-unit sales of the Forte in 2010, taking 11% of the non-national B and C segments,” he said, adding that so far some 300 bookings had been received for the model.

He said he was confident of achieving this target as the Forte was the only product in this segment which offered extensive features, normally found in premium cars, at attractive pricing.

The B segment refers to sedans such as Toyota Vios and Honda City, while the C segment includes Honda Civic, Nissan Sylphy and Mitsubishi Lancer.

“We have had much success with the C segment in particular, having sold close to 34,000 units of the Spectra since 2001. The C segment is among the strongest segments in the automotive industry and we believe the Forte will position itself as a major player in this segment,” Nasarudin added.

The Forte comes in three variants with two engine options – the 1.6-litre EX, 1.6-litre SX and the flagship 2.0 Forte. The 1.6-litre EX is priced at RM75,800, the 1.6-litre SX costs RM81,800 and the 2.0 Forte is sold at RM93,800.

AirAsia celebrates Kochi launch

2009-12-15T19:42:00.000-08:00

AirAsia, one of the largest low-cost carrier in Asia, said it has launched Kochi-Kuala Lumpur flights in line with its plans to boost India operations.

Air Asia, which services the most extensive route network in South East Asia with over 70 destinations, said it was the only airline from Kuala Lumpur to start direct daily flights to Kochi.

Kochi is one of the airline’s latest Indian destinations which opened for sale recently, alongside Kolkata and Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum).

Since opening of these routes less than two months ago, the airline experienced an overwhelming response with nearly 100,000 seats being sold on the sector, it added.

The flight was welcomed by Consul General of Malaysia for Southern India based in Chennai, Anuar Kasman, Noor Arif Mohd. Noor, director of Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board in Chennai, Manoharan, director of Tourism Malaysia – Southern Asia accompanied by AirAsia regional head of Commercial, Kathleen Tan.

“With Kochi now added to our extensive network, AirAsia is unlocking the potential of international air travel from Kuala Lumpur to Southern India and its surrounding areas," said Tan.

"We are thrilled to be serving Kochi direct, a huge market that no other airline is serving directly. With the commencement of this direct service to Kuala Lumpur, the people of Kerala and India can now use Kochi as a gateway to our extensive route network to Asean and beyond," she added.-TradeArabia News Service

Using Twitter for Exploring Kuala Lumpur

2009-12-14T19:50:00.000-08:00

The micro-blogging, social-networking site is full of travel deals, insider tips, news, and useful information.

My friend, Bader Ali, a marketer from Muscat Oman, was recently planning a business trip to Asean, and wondered if she should fly into KLIA or Cxxxxx Airport. He could have looked at blogs, checked out airport websites, or even called a travel agent. Instead, he turned to a different network—him friends on Twitter. “Everyone said to stay away from Cxxxxx Airport,” he says. Following the advice of her fellow tweeters, she flew into KLIA.

Twitter, the 140-characters-at-a-time Web phenomenon of the moment, turns out to be a powerful tool for travelers. It can take you deep into the collective mind of the Internet to find the latest—and often the hippest—information about hotels, restaurants, and airfare deals. And lots of travelers are discovering the site’s potential.

A bit of Twitter 101 (skip ahead if you’re already tweet-friendly): it’s a free service that lets you send and receive brief messages, called tweets, which are restricted to no more than 140 characters of text—meaning Twitter is a hybrid of instant messaging and blogging. People who follow you get your tweets, and you can choose which other Twitterers you want to follow. Tweets can be sent and received on twitter.com, traditional e-mail accounts, mobile phones, RSS, and Facebook.

Because it’s informal, Twitter allows you to be conversational and responsive. And it connects you with travelers who prefer social networking over official travel websites. It can also be very local. With so many eyes scouring the Internet, culling from websites, and providing links, Twitter is a way to essentially create your own aggregator.

Those on the receiving end of this information run the gamut of travel types. My friend, Bader Ali from Muscat - Oman, was planning a KL vacation that included KLCC and scoured Twitter Aquaria KLCC and KL Tower @ Twitter MenaraKL “Twitter came in handy for nailing down the details,” he says.

Here also the lists of Twitter Site that i suggest to my friend when he exploring KL last time...

No matter what kind of travel you’ll be doing, Twitter can be a powerful and efficient tool; after all, skimming the posts is faster than visiting a bunch of blogs. Use Twitter’s search engine to find, say, a member who tracks hotel deals in KL...

all site with useful information when u exploring KL.

and now all of u also should try this...

let's exploring KL now...! Happy tweeting... and WELCOME to KUALA LUMPUR!

Many thanks 4 ur vote!

Maraton Malam Putrajaya!!!

2009-12-14T19:27:00.000-08:00

BUAT julung kali, perlumbaan Maraton Malam Putrajaya akan diadakan di sekitar kawasan Pusat Pentadbiran Kerajaan Persekutuan, Putrajaya pada 6 Februari tahun depan dengan menawarkan hadiah lumayan.

Kategori dipertandingkan ialah maraton penuh dan separuh maraton dengan jarak masing-masing iaitu 42 dan 21 kilometer. Pemenang kategori terbuka lelaki akan menerima RM20,000 manakala kategori wanita terbuka, RM15,000.

Promosi perlumbaan maraton dilancarkan Menteri Wilayah Persekutuan dan Kesejahteraan Bandar, Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin di Perbadanan Putrajaya, baru-baru ini.

Mereka berminat boleh melayari laman web www.hooha.asia bagi maklumat lanjut.

1Malaysia F1 Team official driver lineup: Jarno Trulli and Heikki Kovalainen

2009-12-13T23:39:00.001-08:00

After the long wait, Team Lotus F1 (or 1Malaysia F1 Team, as many Malaysians know it as) has finally announced its official driver lineup: Jarno Trulli and Heikki Kovalainen will race for the Malaysian backed team in the 2010 Formula 1 season!

Both drivers were in search of a race seat for 2010. Trulli, 35, is a seasoned veteran left without a drive after Toyota pulled out of the sport, while 28-year old Kovalainen was Lewis Hamilton’s teammate at McLaren, recently dropped and replaced by World Champion Jenson Button. Our own Fairuz Fauzy will be the team’s third and reserve driver, as suggested by team technical chief Mike Gascoyne earlier. Trulli should have a good working relationship with Gascoyne, who was Technical Director at Toyota.

In Trulli and Kovalainen, Lotus F1 has two highly experienced drivers that are no strangers to the podium, and we wish the team all the best for its maiden season.

UPDATE: Quotes from the drivers and Team Principal after the jump!

Jarno Trulli
What were the reasons behind your decision to join Lotus F1 Racing?

“I am really pleased to be joining Lotus F1 Racing. It was quite a difficult situation at the start of November with my former team withdrawing from Formula 1, but I was convinced I would stay in Formula 1. I was in contact with Mike (Gascoyne, Chief Technical Officer) about the possibility of joining the new Lotus team and it became quickly clear that it would be a very good opportunity for me. I have been in Formula 1 for many years but there is something extremely motivating about helping to build a team from the ground level up. There is a lot of ambition from Tony (Fernandes, Team Principal), Mike and in fact the whole of Malaysia as a nation, and that level of enthusiasm is infectious for a driver. I am really looking forward to the challenge.”

You are one of the longest-serving drivers in Formula 1 – how important will your experience be for the team?

“I have driven for quite a few teams in my career, both manufacturer and independent teams, so I have a wide range of experience. I hope that this experience will be a positive asset for Lotus as we begin this new challenge together. We should not underestimate the task in hand. Formula 1 in 2010 is an exciting prospect with brand new teams, established manufacturers fighting back and of course other young teams looking to repeat their 2009 success. Everyone will be fighting hard for results, but we still have all our foundations to set, so we have a lot to do.”

Do you expect the team to be immediately competitive?

“We have to set realistic targets for the first year. We are one of the new teams, so we have to prove ourselves and to gain respect in the paddock. We have to establish ourselves as the best of the new teams and see what gap we have between us and the rest. Only then will we really understand what gains we need to make during the season. The points system has changed to reward the top ten drivers, so I would like to see us making progress towards the top ten by Abu Dhabi.”

What do you think of the team’s approach to Formula 1 based on your previous experiences?

“Having spoken to Tony and to Mike, as well as being in Malaysia this week, I can see a very sensible attitude and professional approach to racing. Of course everyone supporting the team wants results but everybody knows that will take time. We certainly have the capabilities and the tools to do the job. I know Mike very well from our time at other teams and I have a lot of faith in his technical operation.”

What do you think of having Heikki as a team-mate?

“It’s great to have a younger driver like Heikki on board. He has been in Formula 1 for a few years now, so he has matured into a competitive and well-rounded race driver. His experiences at other teams will certainly help Lotus F1 Racing as a whole and I am looking forward to working alongside him. He is bringing a different character and driving style to the team which I think will benefit all of us during 2010.”

Heikki Kovalainen
You are entering your fourth season as a Formula 1 race driver by joining a brand new team in Lotus F1 Racing – what factors were behind your decision to join the team?

For me there were a couple of major factors – Tony and Mike being the two leading figures in the project, and the backing behind the team were both very important, and having spoken to both of them I became aware that the whole operation has a lot of potential, and a very good chance of being a successful team in the future. I saw Lotus F1 Racing as the best choice for me to progress my career, after considering several other options that were available to me.

What have you seen of the team so far?

I have visited the base of the team, as well as meeting Tony and Mike, and I can see that everyone involved is very motivated, excited and happy to be pushing this program forwards. The team has ambitious plans for the future and everyone will see Lotus F1 Racing in Bahrain GP as a professional, competitive yet very humble group of intelligent individuals.

What do you think of your new team-mate Jarno?

I have known Jarno for many years now and I think together we can push the team forwards very quickly, and develop our car and the team in a professional way.

Do you have any specific targets for your first season with the team?

I always race to win and I will do everything as if I was preparing to put the car on pole, but of course we have to be realistic and keep the focus on developing the team to a state where we can operate like any other current top F1 team. It will not be easy and we will have tough times at the beginning, there’s no question about it, but as long as we keep improving all the way through the year and have the earned respect of the other top teams on the grid, then we can be pleased about the first year.

Does the Lotus name add any pressure on you or the team?

Well maybe at the beginning we will get away with some difficulties, but of course Lotus has been a winning team in the past and, like I said earlier, the team has ambitious plans to become successful, so after a little while we need to be making progress to keep the Lotus name at its current high status.

Tony Fernandes – Team Principal
There has been a lot of speculation recently about the driver line-up. How did you reach your decision?

“Firstly, I would like to say this is an historic day for all us at Lotus F1 Racing as we announce our first driver line-up. We have three drivers who I believe complement each other excellently and who I think represent what Lotus F1 Racing and 1Malaysia is all about. That is not to say it was a straight-forward decision because we spoke with other drivers who I rate very highly, but ultimately we have opted for a careful mix of experience, youth and ambition. In Jarno we have the F1 veteran who proved in 2009 that he is as quick and determined as ever. In Heikki we have a continuing rising star who is still hungry to prove himself, and in Fairuz we have a Malaysian national driver who is eager to progress up the F1 ladder to fulfill the hopes of a nation. It’s the full package if you ask me.”

What do you expect from the drivers in 2010?

“It is more a question of what we all expect from each other rather than just from the drivers. 2010 will be the first season for Lotus F1 Racing and we have a lot to achieve in a short space of time. As with any new venture, it is a case of ‘all hands on deck’. Everybody has a vital role to play but it is about bringing a new team together and gelling. The drivers each bring different experience to the team and I think the combination of their skills will help us quickly establish ourselves as the ones to watch in 2010 and beyond.”

Did you ever think you would see two race winning drivers in the team’s first season?

“I am still pinching myself. We have not even finished our first race car, so to attract two race winning drivers to the team is a huge achievement and honour. I think it is a testament to our ambition and our long-term vision that we have such talent on our books in year one. It is further proof that we are serious about what we do and I am sure the other new teams are looking at us with some envy right now.”

http://twitter.com/tonyfernandes

New website for local delicacies

2009-12-13T21:42:00.000-08:00

KUALA LUMPUR: Tourists visiting Malaysia now have another source to check out popular and delectable local dishes.

Through the new website, www.fabfood1malaysia.com, they will be able to find the
best outlets serving local cuisine.

Launching the Fabulous Food 1Malaysia website at PWTC yesterday, Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said the website was a platform for food recommendation.

She said the website would help tourists to savour the many rich and flavourful dishes in Malaysia.

By the end of January, a panel of judges from Tourism Malaysia will then choose 50 outlets for each of the chosen dishes and a commendation plaque will be awarded to those outlets.

The criteria to select the outlets will be based on taste, presentation, cleanliness, service and pricing of the food.

The chosen outlets from all over the country will be included in a Fabulous Food 1Malaysia Tracker which will be used to promote Malaysia globally.

KL join the big boys in Super League

2009-12-03T00:44:00.001-08:00

By ERIC SAMUEL

PETALING JAYA: Kuala Lumpur have been promoted to play in the Super League next season.

The competitions committee chairman, Datuk Che Mat Jusoh, said that the city side were picked based on their good track record and management in the Malaysian Super League (MSL).

“The withdrawal of UPB-MyTeam and Kuala Muda Naza has left us with only13 teams in the top flight. We need to round up the figure to 14 teams and the committee felt that KL were the best choice,” he said yesterday.

He said that all 14 teams in the Super League and 12 sides in the Premier League have met the requirements of the FA of Malaysia (FAM) to compete next season.

The FAM also allowed Tambun Tulang of Perlis to remain in the FAM Cup competition even though they have won promotion to play in the Premier League.

Che Mat said that Tambun Tulang faced financial constraints to compete in the Premier League and USM of Penang will take the slot.

The 14 teams in the Super League are Selangor, Negri Sembilan, Terengganu, Kedah, Perlis, KL Plus, Johor FC, Kelantan, Penang, Perak and promoted sides T-Team Terengganu, Johor, Harimau Muda A and KL.

The 12 teams in the Premier League are Sabah, Sarawak, Police, Armed Forces, PKNS, KL Pos, Harimau Muda B, Felda United, Shahzan Muda, Malacca, Pahang and promoted USM of Penang.

The committee also decided that teams would have to qualify on merit for places in the 16-team Malaysia Cup next season.

The top 12 from the Super League and the top four in the Premier League make the cut for the competition beginning on Sept 14 with the final scheduled for Nov 20.

This year’s Malaysia Cup competition featured 20 teams – all 14 states, Police, Armed Forces and the top four clubs.

Che Mat also announced that the deadline for registration of players for the MSL is Dec 6. The draw for the 33-team FA Cup knockout competition will be held on Dec 17.

The Super League kicks off with the Charity Shield match between Negri Sembilan and Selangor at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium in Paroi on Jan 9. The league matches are expected to be completed by July 24.

Premier League matches will be played between Jan 11 and July 23.

The committee also decided that the MSL would take a break for Sukma (Malaysia Games) and the World Cup. Sukma in Malacca are scheduled for June 10-19. The World Cup Finals will be played between June 11 and July 11.

Tell The Malaysian Story To Global

2009-11-24T19:19:00.000-08:00

NEW YORK, Nov 24 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said Malaysia's message of reforms and transformation needs to be told to foreign investors consistently or risk being overshadowed by countries like China and other emerging economies.

The Malaysian Prime Minister also said Malaysia may need to introduce further measures to make its capital market more attractive to foreign fund managers if it does not want to be marginalised by them.

Following a series of meetings with American fund managers and investors as well as corporate figures here on Monday, Najib said: "I think they like the Malaysian story, but they want us to continue our reform measures because they say that the outcome is very important."

Speaking to the Malaysian media covering his visit to New York, he said they were also receptive to the proposed re-listing of Maxis Bhd.

"They were saying that it's a move in the right direction as this will give them a bigger opportunity to invest in bigger companies as some of them are managing funds worth trillions of dollars," he said.

Elaborating further, the Prime Minister said American financiers and investors had pointed out the lack of suitable companies for them to invest in Malaysia.

"They would like to see more Malaysian companies with big market capitalisation. They're not keen on small companies. So, size in terms of market capitalisation is important for them. They want to see more companies like Maxis Bhd," said Najib.

He also said the investors indicated that prospective Malaysian companies should also adhere to the principles of good governance.

"In addition, they would like entities like Employees Provident Fund, Khazanah Nasional Bhd and Permodalan Nasional Bhd to reduce slightly their holdings in companies so that shares are available on the open market," he said.

Malaysia To Step Up Muslim Tours In China

2009-11-20T00:32:00.001-08:00

KUNMING, Nov 20 (Bernama) -- Malaysia will step up the promotion of Muslim tour packages, including Ramadan attractions, for the Chinese market, said Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen.

"The number of Chinese Muslim tourists to Malaysia in year 2003 was 50,000 and the figure has gone up to 94,000 people last year. With the high volume of Chinese tourists, I believe that promoting Islamic tourism among Chinese Muslims has great potential," she said at a dialogue Thursday with Muslim leaders and tour operators in her 12-day working trip to China.

Ng said the packages could incorporate visits to mosques and promotions during the Ramadan month such as halal food stalls and hotel buffets during the period.

"Malaysia has Islamic banking and is a halal food hub which could be advantageous in promoting Islamic tourism. Besides that, Chinese Muslim travel agents could also bring their customers to attend exhibition on halal products organised in Malaysia," she added.

Ng also encouraged Chinese Muslim tour operators to look into the potential of Malaysian Muslim tourists to China apart from travelling to the Middle East.

For example, she said, Malaysian Muslims could take holidays in southwestern Yunnan province, to enjoy the four seasons of the year.

Amee, a Chinese tour operator who attended the dialogue with Dr Ng, said the 20 million Muslim population in China was a strong potential market and tour operators here had been working together with Tourism Malaysia in recent years.

He said religious travel, education travel, family holidays and the "Malaysia My Second Home" programme were the main draws.

Dr Ng also led a delegation to the opening of the 11th China International Travel Mart (CITM) on Thursday attended by 94 countries and visited the Malaysian pavilion and exhibitors.

With Chinese arrivals to Malaysia totalling 835,000 in October, she hoped that the target of one million Chinese tourists could be achieved this year.

Dr Ng also attended the inaugural China-Asean Tourism Cooperation Forum and called on Shao Qiwei, China National Tourism Administration chairman.

She spoke of the need for a task force to look into China-Asean tourism cooperation and to discuss measures for government agencies and the private sector.

"We need to sit down to look at packages and inter-border discussion about issues in the immigration process. I hope that during the meeting of the tourism ministers from China-Asean, which will be held in January next year in Brunei, we can focus on the discussion regarding this matter," she said during her meeting with Shao.

She said that apart from promoting travel, her ministry was looking into developing investments in the tourism in dustry by working with Malaysia's International Trade and Industry Ministry.

Shao supported Dr Ng's views on greater China-Asean tourism cooperation and the need for tourism ministers in the region to work closely on developing the regional tourism industry, with the China-Asean free trade agreement to be in place next year.

-- BERNAMA

Old Kampung Kerinchi Flats To Make Way For New Ones

2009-11-18T20:17:00.001-08:00

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 18 (Bernama) -- The old four-storey Kampung Kerinchi flats will make way for new ones in three years said Federal Territories Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin.

Raja Nong Chik said it was part of the government's efforts to provide better living facilities to the people.

The current tenants of the 480 units would be relocated temporarily at the government housing schemes (PPR) in Kerinchi and Sri Cempaka, situated close by.

He added that tenants would receive their keys for their temporary houses in two to three weeks while the relocation exercise carried out by City Hall (DBKL) would be completed by end of the year.

"Almost 90 percent of the tenants had agreed to the proposed plan. In fact, they (tenants) have long been asking to be relocated," he told reporters here Wednesday.

Raja Nong Chik said the new proposed flats would have three rooms and two bath rooms.

He added that the old units that were built in 1974 only had one room.

"DBKL will open tenders for the project and I want to ensure and assure that only capable developers will be awarded the job," he said.

-- BERNAMA

The KL Mayor’s...

2009-11-18T19:35:00.000-08:00

Since Kuala Lumpur was the Federal Territory of Malaysia from 1 February 1974 the city has been led by nine mayors.
They are the person who responsible to bring Kuala Lumpur closer to being a world-class metropolis now...

They are;

Tan Sri Dato’ Lokman Yusof the former Federal Capital Commissioner was elected the first Mayor. He passed away on 15.5.1972.

Tan Sri Yaakob Latiff then served as the second Mayor for 10 years.

He was later replaced by the third Mayor, Tan Sri Dato’ Elyas Omar on 1.2.1983.

The fourth Mayor was Dato’ Dr Mazlan Ahmad who elected on 17.11.1992.

Tan Sri Dato’ Kamarruzaman Shariff then took over as the fifth Mayor between 14.12.1995 to 13.12.2001.

He was then replaced by Y Bhg Kol. Datuk Hj Mohmad Shaid b Mohd Taufek who was appointed on 14.12.2001.

Then from 14.12.2004 until 13.12.2006 the post of the seventh Mayor was held by Y Bhg Dato’ Hj Ruslin bin Hj Hasan.

The office of eight Mayor was held by Y Bhg Dato’ Ab Hakim bin Borhan.

Currently, beginning 14.12.2008 the ninth Mayor’s post is held by Y Bhg Dato’ Ahmad Fuad bin Ismail.

Dato' Ahmad Fuad, 56, comes with 30 years experience in government, seven of them as the head of the Subang Jaya Municipal Council.

He served with the Public Services Department for six years and took over as Penang Development Corporation general manager in 2003.

He was appointed Housing and Local Government Ministry secretary-general in 2006.

He hails from Kedah and holds a Bachelor of Arts (History) from University Malaya and a Masters degree in Public International Affairs from the University of Denver in the United States.

Thanks 4 vote!

1Malaysia Fun Walk @ KL : Dukethon 2009

2009-11-18T19:11:00.000-08:00

Let's run as a nation and rejoice as a family at the latest of progress in the heart of the capital city. So come join the events carnival on 22 Nov 2009 (8am-12pm) and have great fun.

A total cash purse of RM15,000 is up for grabs in the inaugural Dukethon at the Duke Highway on Nov 22.

The top three winners in each category will receive cash prizes. The run, to be flagged at exit 33 of the Duke Highway, has six categories — men’s open, women’s open, men’s senior, women’s senior, boys and girls - and also a 1Malaysia Fun Walk.

The champions in the men’s open and women’s open will receive RM2,000 followed by RM1,500 and RM1,000.

The men’s senior and women’s senior offers RM1,000 to the champions while the second and third placed runners will receive RM750 and RM500 respectively.

Participants in the fun walk will cover 1km and the best dressed participant will receive RM500.

Title : Road Closure For DUKETHON 2009

Date / Time : 21st November 2009 (10.00 pm) -

22nd November 2009 (6.00 pm)

Location : The main route north facing Jalan Kuching, Jalan Duta, NKVE

and also in some way towards the roads.

ITIS CUSTOMER HOTLINE: 03-6251 3100

Cheap! Cheap! Cheap! @ Petaling Street!

2009-11-16T20:27:00.000-08:00

Old Petaling Street!

"Petaling Street or known as Chinatown among tourists is the centre of Kuala Lumpur's original Chinatown. The street is also affectionately known as PS among locals."

To experience Petaling Street (Chinatown), you should go at night! It's a place that never sleeps. The jostling crowd and noise are part of the fun of visiting Petaling Street. Without these, it just wouldn't be right.

Shops here stock a variety of goods from dresses and shoes to fabrics, costume jewellery, and many more. There are also a number of restaurants serving authentic regional Chinese cuisine.

Petaling Street now..!

Bargaining here is an absolute must. Bargain hard! It's the ideal place to test your bargaining skills. Even in daytime you have great bargains. Petaling Street is not open for the traffic. It is a great place for locals to get some goods at bargain prices and certainly an eye-opening experience for tourists.

Bargaining is the way to go when shopping in Petaling Street, unless you don’t mind being ripped off. Prices are generally quoted 15 to 35% higher than what they are truly worth – even higher sometimes for tourists. So before you head down to Petaling Street, make sure your bargaining skills are well-honed.

But first things first – before going on your haggling venture, pay attention to what you’re wearing. If you look like you have the money, some vendors will not hesitate to charge you double or even triple the price. So leave your Armani shirt and gold wristwatch behind, and dress as simply as you could. Wear no visible labels or anything that is a dead giveaway to your financial status.

Let's go now...!

Bumper to bumper in KL

2009-11-16T19:54:00.000-08:00

TIRED of getting stuck in bumper to bumper traffic in Kuala Lumpur? The good news for iPhone users is that you can finally take advantage of the city’s various traffic monitoring services on their mobile device thanks to MyEyes Traffic.

The locally developed app has hit the top spot on the Malaysian App Store in the past few weeks, definitely gaining attention for its usefulness in navigating through the busy streets of Kuala Lumpur.

MyEyes Traffic allows users to conveniently access information on the traffic situation along various major roads around the city and several major highways in the Klang Valley.

The application connects to the websites of the Integrated Transport Information System (Itis), Plus and Malaysian Highway Authority, to stream images captured from the CCTV cameras set up along the roads and highways in the city.

This iPhone 3G app streams traffic CCTV images directly from the following websites providing a convenient way to look at traffic camera images wherever you are:
http://www.itis.com.my/
http://www.llmtrafik.gov.my/

Thanks to Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur and Lembaga Lebuhraya Malaysia for sharing the web content with road users online.

Requirements:
• iPhone and iPodTouch with OS3.0 and above.
• Internet access via WiFi, 3G, EDGE or GPRS.

User Guides:

• Launch the app and select the list of camera available for viewing of the traffic images.
• When a magnifying glass appeared, tab it to enlarge the image or use fingers to move or pan in or out.
• When viewing traffic images, always take note of the time stamp of the image to confirm the time when the image were taken.

• You may add camera into the Favourite from the All Camera Screen by tapping on the blue arrows. By tapping blue arrow again, it will remove it from Favourite.

• Within Favourite screen, user may swipe to remove the camera from the list.

• Several preference settings available in iPhone's Settings screen to configure the app:

* Colors of the screen
* Provide sound or vibration feedback

The MyEyes Traffic application for the iPhone.

To find out more and download this iPhone app, please click here.

Some of the benefits of ITIS:

Allows informed decisions to be made on travel (i.e. choice of routes, modes and schedules)
Enables real-time capture of traffic information for incident management and long-term transport planning
Alleviates traffic congestion and delays during rush hour periods and emergency situations
Reduces accidents, their severity and impact on the highway
Improves emergency assistance for motorists and commuters
Reduces travel times and promotes more uniform traffic flow
Reduces pollution as a result of less time idling in traffic
Provides comfort, safety and security in highway travel particularly around construction zones
Improves utilisation of available road capacity
Improves quality of life in the Klang Valley

Plan your journey now!
Now, you can avoid traffic jams and have a smooth journey around KL with real-time information on road congestion.

More 'green living' for city folk

2009-11-16T17:24:00.001-08:00

Residents exercising at the Taman Ampang Hilir park. — Picture by P.C. Lim

KUALA LUMPUR: The government is going all out to make the city a green and people-friendly metropolis. It has allocated RM50 million to City Hall to provide more green areas, beautify the city and build more recreational facilities.

"There will be more futsal courts, playgrounds and parks. We hope to complete the project by 2010. We want to see more people-friendly development and we will also stress on more green areas for the people," said Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin at the official opening of the Taman Ampang Hilir park.

Raja Nong Chik said the park was one of the government's efforts to provide adequate recreational facilities for the people, especially for those living in Ampang Hilir.

"This move is in line with the prime minister's 1Malaysia concept. People first. Performance now," he said.

Raja Nong Chik also said that his ministry and City Hall would be organising more programmes for the people.

"We want to encourage all races to come and participate in all the programmes and enjoy the facilities in the park," he said.

Also present at the opening were Deputy Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Minister Datuk M. Saravanan and mayor Datuk Ahmad Fuad Ismail. More than 200 people attended the event.

Fuad urged residents in the area to make full use of the park.

"The park is for the residents here. They should enjoy all the recreational facilities such as the jogging tracks and playground for children," he said

City Hall had spent RM14.5 million to develop the Taman Ampang Hilir park. The project started in September last year and was completed early this year. The park has 120 parking bays and beside its picturesque lake, residents and visitors can also utilise the multipurpose hall which has a stage, three badminton courts, changing rooms, a surau, pantry and toilets.

Before the project was developed, the park was an abandoned mining pool and home to squatters. The squatter colony was demolished in 2005 and the residents were moved to City Hall's low-cost housing schemes in the area. The park is located off Jalan Ampang, in Jalan Kendondong. -NST

2nd Putrajaya International 12 Hour Walk 2009

2009-11-12T17:49:00.000-08:00

The Race Walkers' Association of Malaysia is organizing the 2nd Putrajaya International 12 Hour Walk on 12th & 13th December 2009. This year's walk will be held on the same venue area of the Dataran Putrajaya, Putrajaya Malaysia.

The challenging walk will be divided into 6 categories, Individual Man & Women Open, Man & women 50KM Walk and Man & Women 70KM Walk.

Last year 1st Putrajaya International 12 Hour Walk 2008, had attracted more than 500 professional die hard walker local and international from all over the globe. For this year, RWAM is confident to attract in a limited number of 800 entires.

Therefore, for those who had missed last year 12 Hour Walk. Please grab hold of this opportunities, get ready your walking gear and be prepare to challenge the 2nd Putrajaya International 12 Hour Walk 2009.

Start: 12th December 2009, Saturday (20:00)

End: 13th December 2009. Sunday (08:00)

2nd Putrajaya 12 Hour Walk (Entry Form).pdf
Size : 86 Kb
Type : pdf

2nd Putrajaya 12 Hour Walk (Rules Regul).pdf
Size : 132 Kb
Type : pdf

Route Map Layout1.pdf
Size : 47 Kb
Type : pdf

Map to Putrajaya.pdf
Size : 280 Kb
Type : pdf

Click HERE for more info.

KL Sunday 1 Malaysia Family Fair !

2009-11-12T17:20:00.000-08:00

Night Market @ KL! Cheap! Cheap! Cheap!

2009-11-12T00:06:00.000-08:00

In KL you will notice there are many night markets here. Usually the night market starts at around 6 pm to 11 pm and sells lots of Malaysia delicacies as well as household products.

Night market is Malaysian known as ‘Pasar Malam’ and very popular among Malaysians especially those who want buy fresh chicken, vegetables etc.

Update on where and when the best markets are, this is the list of night markets/pasar malam around the city centre and it's surrounding areas... explore its now! everything is there...! A to Z! Find Great Bargains & Discounts!

Monday

Seksyen 1 Wangsa Maju
Taman Len Seng, Cheras
Jalan Air Panas, Setapak
Kampung Kerinchi, Bangsar (I)
Sentul Pasar Dalam 4B
Jalan Kangsar Off Jalan Ipoh
Desa Pandan, Kampung Pandan
Taman Miharja Fasa II
Taman Koop Polis Fasa 2
Taman Sri Sinar, Segambut
Taman Sri Murni

Tuesday

Taman Desa Bakti, Selayang
Kampung Kasippillay Off Jalan Ipoh
Rumah Pangsa Razak Mansion
Jalan Bangsawan, Bandar Tun Razak
Taman Datuk Senu, Sentul
Rumah Pangsa Gombak 1A
Taman Kok Lian, Segambut
Kampung Pasir Lama Off Jalan Klang Lama
Rumah Panjang 1A, Jinjang
Taman Pertama, Cheras
Jalan Chemur, Pekeliling
Taman Sri Petaling, Sungai Besi
Jalan Air Bah, Setapak
Taman Intan Baiduri, Kepong
Jalan 133 Kepong
Jalan 25/56, Keramat Wangsa

Wednesday

Taman Desa Petaling
Kuchai Enterprenurs Park
Jalan Kolam Air Off Jalan Ipoh
Rumah Pangsa Sri Melaka, Cheras
Jalan K, Taman Batu, Segambut
Taman Connought, Cheras
Taman Beringin, Jinjang
Kampung Malaysia Tambahan, Sungai Besi
Kuaters Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Pantai Dalam, Bangsar
Jalan Wira, Kampung Pandan
Jalan Gempita, Salak Selatan
Seksyen 10, Wangsa Maju
Rumah Pangsa Sri Pahang, Bangsar
Jalan 2A/146, Desa Tasek, Sg Besi
Jalan Batu 2, Taman Batu Muda

Thursday

Jalan Ikan Emas, Cheras
Jalan Berhala, Brickfield
Jalan Hujan Emas, OUG
Flat Sri Terengganu, Sentul
Taman Sri Rampai, Setapak
Taman Taynton, Cheras
PKNS, Jalan Kuching
Jalan Kas-Kas, Taman Cheras
Kampung Haji Abdullah Hukum, Bangsar
Taman Sri Sentosa, Klang Lama
Pasar Malam Awam Bandar Tun Razak
Jalan 4/146, Bandar Tasek Selatan
Jalan A1/6, Taman Setapak Indah

Friday

Taman Melati, Gombak
Taman Desa Off Jalan Klang Lama
Taman Mastiara, Segambut
Jalan Sibu 6, Taman Wahyu
Taman Segar, Cheras
Taman Kok Doh, Segambut
Taman Sri Endah, Sungai Besi
Jalan Ang Seng, Brickfield
Bandar Baru Sentul
Kampung Cheras Baru, Cheras
Kg Kerinchi, Bangsar (J)
Jalan 20/2A, Taman Wilayah Selayang
Jalan 31/10A, Taman Perindustrian IKS

Saturday

Taman Bukit Anggerik, Cheras
Lorong Tuanku Abdul Rahman
Jalan Udang Siar, Segambut
Pekan Sungai Besi
AU2 Keramat
Jalan Rejang, Setapak Jaya
Jalan Kelab, Jinjang
Taman Sungai Besi
Taman Miharja Fasa 1
Jalan Lazat, Happy Garden
Pantai Dalam, Bangsar
Taman Midah, Cheras
Taman Sri Bintang, Kepong
Taman Koop Polis Fasa 1
Pasar Malam Awam Bandar Tun Razak

Sunday

Titikaya, Jinjang
Jalan Semarak, Setapak
Taman Maluri, Cheras
Jalan Selesa, Happy Garden
Jalan Telawi Bangsar
Taman Bukit Maluri, Kepong
Taman Tun Dr. Ismail
Jalan Mergastua, Kepong
Jalan Kelapa Gading, Segambut
Rumah Pangsa Sri Selangor, San Peng
Taman Sri Kuching, off Jalan Ipoh

and click HERE for the map!

vote please!

many thanks!

Using UK double deckers to bring tourists to KL

2009-11-10T22:55:00.000-08:00

LONDON, Nov 9 – On a chilly grey Monday morning, the sight of a red double-decker parked in front of the Excel Exhibition Centre here, stood out.

On both sides of the bus, two banners – one showing Malaysia’s famous orangutan and the green rainforest, and the other, showing the white sandy beaches and blue sunny skies – poised an even more stark contrast to the autumn weather, attracting the attention of participants to the annual World Travel Mart (WTM).

It also showed a promotional all-in air fare from London to Kuala Lumpur at only 399 pounds by Malaysia Airlines (MAS). That was the Tourism Malaysia’s latest promotional campaign in United Kingdom, which was launched by Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen today.

She said the RM500,000 advertising campaign on England's famous double-decker public buses, would be plying in the cities of Manchester and Birmingham, aiming to target a wider spectra of the consumers market in the United Kingdom.

“Before, we were focusing on London. But with this campaign, we are going down to the smaller towns outside London," she told the Malaysian media after the launch.

Earlier, she had also launched the Tourism Malaysia's booth at the WTM, which showcased a grand wooden Malacca house.

The advertisement campaign, which is in partnership with MAS, will run from now until January, involving a total of 50 buses – 30 in Manchester and 20 in Birmingam, which ply various routes at least 20 times a day in their respective cities.

“We are also looking into providing the bus drivers which training on basic information on the tourism industry in Malaysia as well as to place tourism brochures on board the buses in order to provide information to passengers,” she said. – Bernama

TrulyAsia.TV - KL on TV!

2009-11-10T22:16:00.000-08:00

Malaysia a big Asian region winner at World Travel Awards

2009-11-10T20:25:00.000-08:00

LONDON: Malaysia swept seven Asian awards at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2009’s regional finals here on Saturday.

Dubbed the “Oscars” of the global tourism industry, the awards are recognised as the highest accolade within the travel industry.

Malaysia Airlines bagged Asia’s Leading Airline award, while Resorts World Genting scooped Asia’s Leading Family Resort and Asia’s Leading Casino Resort titles.

Tourism Malaysia’s “Malaysia: Truly Asia” tagline was also voted Asia’s leading marketing campaign at the star-studded function in Grosvenor House, a JW Marriot Hotel, in London’s Mayfair.

All smiles: MAS regional manager for United Kingdom and Ireland Syed Abdillah Syed Aziz (second from left) and Dr Munir (third from left) posing with their awards after the ceremony in London on Saturday. With them are (from left) Lilis Surianty, Huong, Yvonne Kow and Miss China Yu Sheng.

Hilton Kuala Lumpur took home two titles — for Asia’s Leading City Hotel and Asia’s Leading Design Hotel — while Asia’s Leading Airport Hotel award went to Pan-Pacific Kuala Lumpur International Airport Hotel.

MAS chairman Tan Sri Dr Munir Majid and Genting Malaysia Berhad president and chief operating officer Datuk Lee Choong Yan received their awards from Miss Vietnam/ Miss World 2009 contestant Huong Giang.

Dr Majid said the recognition bore testament that the global industry and travellers recognised the national carrier’s brand of service delivery.

“Our focus has always been on serving customers, with a commitment towards continuous service, improvement and delivery,” he said.

Lee said the awards would further encourage them to consistently provide memorable guest experience through innovative products and services.

“I am also confident these awards will help Malaysia enhance its reputation in the tourism industry and attract more visitors to our resort and the country,” he added.

Regional awards were also presented to winners in the Australasia and Indian Ocean as well as the Caribbean and South America regions.

In the category of individual countries, Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur was voted Malaysia’s Leading Hotel; Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia’s Leading Business Hotel); Sheraton Langkawi Resort (Malaysia’s Leading Resort) and Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa in Penang (Malaysia’s Leading Spa Resort).

The event was attended by more than 1,000 senior management and decision-makers from the global travel and tourism industry.

THE STAR

Your simple steps to Discover KUALA LUMPUR!

2009-11-10T19:43:00.000-08:00

1st

landed @ KLIA...

then take a train...
the journey takes just 28 minutes allowing you to relax or just enjoy fascinating sights along the way...

only about USD 20 for return tickets!

then check in your hotels...

5 star sleeping experience @ a 1 star price..

just from USD 4.50 per nights!

then

discover KL using KL HOP-ON HOP-OFF City Tour

buy your tickets for only USD 11 (24 hours) or USD 20 (48 hours)..!

& you can start discover KL...!

KLCC - Bukit Bintang ... tour is the most comprehensive way to experience the magic of Kuala Lumpur. Not only does it cover all major attractions, the tour also includes key shopping centres in the city. KLCC, Twin Tower, Bintang Walk, Merdeka Square, KL Tower, KL Sentral, Lake Garden, Petaling Street, Jamek Mosque, Sri Mahamariamman Temple, St. Mary’s Cathedral…. Over 42 major sights and attractions.

also budget per person / meals only about USD 3 only!
....find some good but cheap meals!

try out a variety of food from all over Malaysia in KL!

Should try this Sate! - The sate was served with pieces of cucumber and rice cakes, both of which are also yummy when dipped in peanut sauce.!

vote please!

tq!

AirAsia tawar sejuta tempat duduk percuma!

2009-11-10T18:16:00.001-08:00

TAWARAN tempat duduk percuma oleh AirAsia yang akan bermula esok dijangka menjadi perhatian di kalangan mereka yang suka melancong.

KUALA LUMPUR - AirAsia, menawarkan sejuta tempat duduk percuma ke lebih 70 destinasi dalam promosi terbarunya Free Seats mulai 11 November ini.

Ketua Bahagian Komersial Serantau AirAsia, Kathleen Tan berkata, promosi yang berakhir pada 15 November itu adalah bagi tempoh penerbangan dari 1 Mei hingga 30 Oktober 2010.

Menurutnya, destinasi yang terlibat dalam kempen tersebut ialah China, India dan Taiwan.

Ia merupakan sebahagian daripada rangkaian AirAsia yang kini telah mencecah lebih daripada 130 laluan dengan melibatkan 20 negara.

"Apabila ekonomi sukar, orang mencari pilihan perjalanan yang lebih murah tetapi memberi nilai terbaik bagi wang mereka dan tiada pilihan yang lebih baik daripada penerbangan percuma," katanya dalam kenyataan yang dikeluarkan di sini semalam.

Liverpool vs Manchester United vs Sheffield United vs EPL All Stars @ EPL Masters Football Malaysia Cup 2009

2009-11-09T19:05:00.001-08:00

EPL Masters Malaysia Cup 2009 kembali mengegarkan Malaysia! Kali ini bersama lagenda bolasepak seperti Andy Cole (Manchester United) Ray Parlour (EPL All Stars) & Jason Mcateer (Liverpool), Paul Parker (Manchester United).

Pasukan Liverpool, Manchester United, Sheffield United dan EPL All Stars akan turun padang, berentap dalam siri kedua Masters Football Malaysia Cup bagi merebut gelaran juara pada 22 November 2009 (sepak mula 5 petang) di Stadium Putra, Bukit Jalil.

Ya! Jangan lepaskan peluang untuk menonton mereka beraksi di depan mata!

Visit FT!

2009-11-08T22:59:00.000-08:00

My friends.. have been in Malaysia for a few days... & this post show photos and stories to share! ... based on what my friendz stories...& experienced!

KL always welcome you... with smiles!

just landed @ KLIA... the best ever airport i seen!

We landed in Kuala Lumpur, KL, and spent few nights at a really great hotel called Tune Hotels.
The hotel located 5 mins by taxi to KLCC shopping centre & Petronas Twin Towers, the world's tallest twin towers and about 10 mins walk to Heritage Row, KL's hottest nightspots... 5 mins by taxi down the road to KL's best clubs on Jalan Sultan Ismail.

Tune Hotels... night view!

We were very lucky. We enjoyed KL more than we thought we would and extended our stay several nights. We visited the Petronas Towers that are the tallest in the world as of right now. Without other skyscrapers around it is hard to get a feeling for how tall they are. Personally, its really amazing view when you see it...

see it.. the amazing KLCC!

and this also amazing view KLCC @ night..!

We set up a Saturday to go see animals at a national zoo.. It was an amazing day and something I really wanted to do for a day in Malaysia. It was absolutely worth it! I pet barking dear, held a flying squirrel, hedge hog, we fed a Sun Bear honey off the palms of our hands...

elephant or gajah in malay word..

If you come by the zoo in the mornings, you might be lucky enough to hear the musical calls of the gibbons and siamangs...

in Zoo Negara, you can have a look at this "milky stork" right in front of your very own eyes...

houses four types of bears; the Asiatic Black Bear, Brown Bear, Sloth Bear and our very own Malaysian Sun Bear..

Akuarium Tunku Abdul Rahman is one of the oldest public aquariums in the country...

the Bornean and Sumatran Orang Utans and Chimpanzees...

and the Malayan Tigers...!

Once again It was absolutely worth it! when i visited the national zoo!

Having just flown across the world, from Dubai to Hong Kong (8 hr flight) for a short lay-over, then to KL (5 hr flight), we were jet-lagged, staying up until 5 and 6 in the morning, and shocked but grateful for the amazingly warm and humid weather. When I got off the plan at midnight our first night, the air smelled familiar... it was exactly like Florida air! same smells and feel on the skin and animal sounds… very cool.

yupp its really cool!

KL, and Malaysia really, have felt very comfortable and familiar. TV and radios have all been in English and we, unfortunately, have not learned a word of Malay, because everyone has been speaking in English around us. I won’t complain anymore and just be grateful that traveling here has been so easy so far. Even eating off the street vendors, with very tasty anchovy-chili pastes and good curries, locals could tell us “this is chicken, mutton, potatoes, etc.,” which was very helpful and allowed us to find some good but cheap meals.

should try this ... satay!

While scoping out Malaysia from our relaxing hotel in KL, we decided a few days of soaking up the sun was necessary to adjust to the new warm weather after the cold weather in Europe, which I think still doesn’t compare to the wickedly cold weather you Chicagoans have been having and even Atlanta has been colder than normal this year! We picked Labuan Island! in Borneo.

vote please! tq

Freddy tawan Putrajaya

2009-11-08T17:33:00.000-08:00

PEMENANG kategori utama merakam gambar kenangan dengan Raja Nong Chik (tengah, depan) dan Samsudin (kanan, depan) selepas berakhir Kejohanan Piala Dunia Luncur Air Putrajaya 2009 semalam.

PELUNCUR Amerika Syarikat, Kruger Freddy menawan Putrajaya apabila meragkul gelaran juara kategori Jump lelaki pada Kejohanan Piala Dunia Luncur Air Putrajaya 2009 di Kompleks Sukan Air, Presint 6, Putrajaya semalam.

Freddy beraksi cemerlang apabila mencatat rekod baru dengan lompatan sejauh 69.0 meter.

Peluncur dari Amerika Syarikat itu berjaya memecah rekodnya sendiri 60.9 meter selain mempertahankan gelaran juara yang dimenanginya pada kejohanan sama di Kuala Lumpur tahun lalu.

Dia menewaskan Asher Thomas dari Britain yang menduduki tempat kedua dengan lompatan sejauh 63.2 meter dan Seels Jason juga dari Britain menduduki tempat ketiga (62.2m).

Fladborg June dari Denmark memenangi kategori Jump wanita setelah melakukan lompatan sejauh 48.3 meter.

Tempat kedua dimenangi oleh Mathieu Marion (Perancis) dan Turets Iryna (Belarus) menduduki tempat ketiga.

Bagi kategori Tricks lelaki pula, juara dimenangi oleh Zharnasek Aliaksei dari Belarus diikuti Fortamps Olivier (Belgium) tempat kedua dan Siemers Jimmy (Amerika Syarikat) tempat ketiga.

Untuk kategori, Tricks wanita pula, gelaran juara menjadi milik Aynaud Marion dari Perancis diikuti Berdnikava Natallia (Belarus) tempat kedua dan Nightingale Mandy (Amerika Syarikat) tempat ketiga.

Bagi kategori Slalom lelaki, Parsons Nick dari Amerika Syarikat merangkul gelaran juara diikuti Fisher Jodi (Britain) di tempat kedua dan Faisy Jean Baptiste (Perancis) di tempat ketiga.

Untuk kategori Slalom wanita pula, juara dimenangi oleh Truelove Karen dari Amerika Syarikat diikuti tempat kedua Amade Anais (Perancis) dan Lucine Clementine (Perancis) tempat ketiga.

Turut hadir pada majlis itu ialah Menteri Wilayah Persekutuan dan Kesejahteraan Bandar, Datuk Raja Nong Chik Dato Raja Zainal Abidin dan Presiden Perbadanan Putrajaya, Tan Sri Samsudin Osman.

Once upon a time in Kuala Lumpur 1965

2009-11-05T00:02:00.000-08:00

Banggunan Sultan Abdul Samad

National Mosque

National Museum

Railway Station

University Malaya

Royal Selangor Golf Club

Chinese Assembly Hall

Batu Caves

KL International Airport (Subang)

Race course... & where is KLCC located now...

Tourists... visit KL in 1965

Five times a day in KL

2009-11-04T00:20:00.000-08:00

Muslims are commanded to perform solat five times a day. At dawn, called sembahyang subuh; at midday, sembahyang lohor or zohor; again at about four in the afternoon when it is called sembahyang asar; and sembahyang maghrib about seven in the evening. The last is at about eight o'clock and is named sembahyang ishak. Here i list the mosques in KL and also of the most famous landmarks in KL.

Subuh @ Al Bukhari Mosque, KL ( Taj Mahal in KL?)

@ jalan Hang Tuah

Zohor @ National Mosque, KL

Another fairly contemporary building, with some nice features such as the minaret, and the 18-point star roof, but you have to get into the grounds of the building to really get a good view of the latter...was built in 1965.

Asar @ Jamek Mosque, KL
Masjid Jamek is the oldest mosques in Kuala Lumpur... near the Dataran Merdeka...It is located at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak River and was designed by Arthur Benison Hubback

Maghrib @ Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur Mosque, Jln Duta

Isyak @ KLCC Mosque (Asy - Syakirin Mosque)

The mosques in KL have a fascinating and unique architecture... come & see it yourself!
Sembahyanglah sebelum anda disembahyangkan...!

Kuala Lumpur Special!

2009-11-03T00:10:00.000-08:00

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Obama visit Kuala Lumpur!

2009-11-02T22:40:00.000-08:00

Cartoon only lah!!! - Barack Obama, paying a visit to Kuala Lumpur by Datuk Lat.

Labuan the pearl island of Borneo

2009-11-02T01:06:00.001-08:00

click image to enlarge.. ;)

1. Labuan Birds Park - really world of birds.. amazing places...

2. Peach Park - This beautifully-landscaped park at Layang-Layangan was built as a memorial and renunciation of the war. The focal point of the park is a huge man-made memorial mound and a plaque signifying the renunciation of war, surrounded by gardens and pavilions.

3. Surrender point...? find out now? - Situated next to Peach Park, Surrender Point was built in remembrance of the surrender of the Japanese Army to the Australian 9th Division on September 9, 1945. The surrender led to the end of World War II in Borneo.

4. UMS International Campus - study here...!

Wreck Diving @ Marine park...!

The four wrecks - Australian wreck, American wreck, Blue water wreck and Cement wreck

5. Marine Park... fuyyyoooooh! paradise of borneo?

6. Patau2 & Bebuluh Water Village - stay here...?

7. Labuan Square! ...dataran merdeka?

8. Financial Park! $$$

9. Labuan World War II Memorial... was here! - At this Memorial situated at Jalan Tanjung Batu lie the remains of 3,908 soldiers, Australians, British, Punjabs, New Zealanders as well as a few locals who died in battle or captivity. On the first Sunday of November every year, a service to mark Remembrance Day is held here attended by locals and foreign visitors

10. Labuan Mosque - very unique...

11. Labuan Airport... i told singapore only "dilanggar todak" ?

12. Chimney? - Standing 106 feet high, the Chimney, erected in the 1800s, is Labuan’s most famous landmark. The purpose of this chimney, made from stacks of red bricks imported from England, remains a mystery but recent archaeological research reveals that there is no indication that it ever served as a chimney!

13. Tunnel - The site of a productive coal mining industry during its time, a network of underground tunnels and deep wells are found here. Many are yet to be explored.

14. lots of BEACH resort...!!!

let's go..! see it yourself... the borneo pearl island?

thanks 4 reading & voting..!

AirAsia penerbangan rasmi!

2009-11-01T18:24:00.000-08:00

TONY Fernandes (kanan) bergambar bersama Tunku Imran Tuanku Ja’afar dan Kimberly Yap selepas menandatangani perjanjian penajaan di Kuala Lumpur

KUALA LUMPUR – Urusan pengangkutan atlet ke kejohanan luar negara bakal menjadi lebih mudah apabila Majlis Olimpik Malaysia (MOM) memeterai perjanjian penajaan dengan syarikat penerbangan AirAsia Bhd.

Menerusi perjanjian tersebut, AirAsia menawarkan tempat duduk tanpa had kepada semua atlet di bawah naungan MOM yang mahu menyertai pertandingan di luar negara bermula dari 2007- 2009.

Women & Sport Award 2009

2009-10-29T21:28:00.001-07:00

Finding restaurants in Kuala Lumpur!

2009-10-28T20:46:00.000-07:00

Finding Restaurants In Kuala Lumpur And Petaling Jaya

View more presentations from William .

AirAsia Dan AirAsia X Gondol Anugerah Syarikat Penerbangan Terbaik CAPA

2009-10-28T19:23:00.001-07:00

BEIJING, 28 Okt (Bernama) -- Pencapaian luar biasa, inovasi pintar dan pertumbuhan positif meskipun dengan krisis ekonomi global tidak menghalang daripada kumpulan AirAsia memenangi anugerah berganda.

AirAsia dan AirAsia X sama-sama telah menggondol Anugerah Syarikat Penerbangan Terbaik 2009 pusat kecemerlangan untuk Penerbangan Asia Pasifik (CAPA) di sini Rabu malam.

Anugerah itu disampaikan pada majlis Anugerah Penerbangan CAPA untuk kecemerlangan sementara Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Kumpulan, Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes turut diberikan "CAPA Legend Award" (Aviation on Hall of Fame) bagi tahun 2009.

Majlis Anugerah CAPA itu diadakan sebagai sebahagian daripada sidang kemuncak Tinjauan Penerbangan Asia tahunan keenam tahun ini di sini.

Acara dua hari itu mengetengahkan para CEO syarikat penerbangan dan lapangan terbang dari seluruh rantau Asia Pasifik dan Timur Tengah.

"Ia merupakan satu penghormatan yang besar, malah, kami amat berbangga, kami mengatasi Singapore Airline, China Airline, Cathay Pacific...ia menunjukkan yang Malaysia adalah yang terbaik," kata Tony Fernandes ketika diminta mengulas mengenai kejayaan syarikat.

-- BERNAMA

Naza Sasar Jual 6,000 Unit Picanto

2009-10-28T19:22:00.000-07:00

PETALING JAYA, 28 Okt (Bernama) -- Naza Kia Sdn Bhd menyasar menjual 6,000 unit model baharu Picanto tahun depan, kata Ketua Pegawai Eksekutifnya SM. Nasarudin S.M Nasimuddin.

Beliau berkata model tersebut sudahpun berada di semua bilik pameran sah Naza Kia di seluruh negara.

"Kereta itu sesuai bagi kereta kedua dan untuk penggunaan di bandar," katanya kepada pemberita selepas pelancaran model Picanto di sini, Rabu malam.

Nasarudin berkata model tersebut bermula dengan harga RM44,500 atas jalan bagi model spesifikasi standard dan RM46,800 di atas jalan bagi spesifikasi tinggi.

Picanto yang merupakan model paling laris dengan hampir 900,000 unit dijual di seluruh dunia dan lebih 12,000 terjual di Malaysia, menawarkan pelanggan gaya yang lebih kontemporari.

Kereta dengan enjin empat silinder 1.1 liter itu dipasang di kilang pengeluaran automotif Naza di Gurun, Kedah.

Beliau berkata syarikat itu merancang memperkenalkan model 4x4, kereta sport model C dan model-model baharu lain tahun depan.

Nasarudin berkata syarikat itu akan terus bekerjasama rapat dengan Kia.

Mengulas mengenai Kajian Semula Dasar Automotif Negara, beliau berkata langkah itu akan merangsang pertumbuhan industri automotif tempatan.

Ditanya sama ada penghapusan Lesen Import (AP) akan memberi kesan kepada Naza, beliau berkata operasi kumpulan itu menjangkaui perniagaan AP.

"Kami telah mempelbagaikan perniagaan kami. Kami mempunyai cabang pembuatan, pembangunan hartanah, makanan, hotel dan lain-lain," katanya.

Beliau berkata syarikat itu akan menumpukan kepada perniagaan hartanah.

Ketika ini, beliau berkata pembuatan menyumbang 70 peratus kepada pendapatan kumpulan.

-- BERNAMA

Putrajaya! Come! see it your self...!

2009-10-28T01:12:00.000-07:00

welcome to putrajaya...

Putrajaya is a planned city, located south of Kuala Lumpur, that serves as the federal administrative centre of Malaysia.

Putra Mosque and PM office's...

The seat of government was shifted in 1999 from Kuala Lumpur due to the overcrowding and congestion there. Nevertheless, Kuala Lumpur remains as Malaysia's national capital and also as the commercial and financial centre.

finance office's...

Putrajaya was the brainchild of a former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad who was in power then. In 2001, Putrajaya was made a Federal Territory, increasing the number of federal territories to three. Kuala Lumpur and Labuan are the other two.

Named after the first Malaysian Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra the city is situated within the Multimedia Super Corridor, beside the also newly developed Cyberjaya. The development started in 1995 and today major landmarks are completed and the population is expected to grow in the relatively new city.

on the way to putrajaya...

the Millennium Monument (Monumen Alaf Baru)

my way to the millennium...?

The 68m tall, amber-coloured historical monument in Precinct 2 is uniquely shaped like an obelisk with etchings denoting important periods and milestones in the nation’s history.

millennium...

The futuristic-looking structure that also resembles a rocket poised for launch closed soon after its official launch by former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in August 2003

the national flower... the hibiscus... near the millennium monument

The overall design of the monument is based on an abstract of the national flower, the hibiscus, while the colour and texture reflect the betel leaf case. Aluminium cladding protects the entire monument.

The tapering tower represents the hibiscus stamen while the five petals are represented by a series of five ramps leading to the viewing deck. It is divided into the primary eras of pre-independence, the past (1957-1970), the present (1971-2020) and the future (2020 onwards).

The making of Malaysia...

The ramp that begins at ground level leads up to a viewing platform overlooking a lush and well-tended 26ha park. Highly visual and informative graphic panels that narrate more history enhance the walk up to the viewing platform.

once upon a time... 1400 in Malaysia...?

more history enhance the walk up...

the tower...

Keistimewaan Monumen Alaf Baru...?

Hubungan Symbolik Kebangsaan - Bunga Raya Kebangsaan dipilih sebagai rekabentuk 'metaphor' untuk membentuk konfigurasi monumen

Hubungan Kebudayaan - Warna dan tekstur monumen diadaptasikan daripada artifak tepak sirih yang menjadi lambang sebahagian daripada asas Kebudayaan Melayu

Hubungan Visual Sejarah - Monumen berfungsi sebagai 'tiang masa' bagi merakan detik-detik sejarah penting berlaku di Malaysia yang dipaparkan melalui ukiran pada dinding monumen

Hubungan Kontekstual Kawasan - Monumen menjadi salah satu mercu tanda lanskap Putrajaya dengan dilengkapi sebuah platform yang menghadap secara strategik ke kawasan-kawasan penting di Putrajaya. Monumen ini juga boleh dilihat dari Kediaman Perdana Menteri.

Hubungan Penataan Sejarah - Platform pada monumen menggambarkan kesinambungan sejarah di Malaysia yang dipaparkan dalam bentuk visual dan teks pada panel dinding kaca.

Hubungan Lampu Suar- Monumen berfungsi sebagai 'rumah api' yang mampu menghasilkan cahaya terang yang bergerak sekeliling 360 darjah dan boleh dilihat daripada pelbagai lokasi di Putrajaya

Come lah to Putrajaya... see it your self....!!!

Visitors and tourists, eager to get a glimpse of the nation’s history, can now visit the monument via land or via cruise boats operated by Cruise Tasik Putrajaya...!

Thanks 4 reading...
and voting...

KL 2009 Showdown of Champions - Russia vs. Asia!

2009-10-23T02:11:00.000-07:00

Anna Kournikova, the ambassador of the event
Anna- "I'm really excited to be part of the Showdown Of Champions 2009. I think it will benefit Malaysia, and Malaysians are fortunate to be able to witness such an event."

RUSSIAN tennis stars Elena Dementieva and Maria Kirilenko will take on Zheng Jie of China and Sania Mirza of India in a "Russia v Asia" clash at Malawati Stadium in Shah Alam on Dec 19-20.

The tentative format of play is one doubles on the first day and two singles matches the next day.

This is the first time WTA Tour players will play an exhibition in Malaysia as the previous two years featured ATP stars.

Elena Dementieva

World No 5 Elena is a seasoned campaigner on the tour, having won 16 WTA titles and also the gold medal in last year's Beijing Olympics while Maria, who was World No 18 last year, is a rising star.

Maria Kirilenko

Zheng Jie's prowess is in doubles and her most memorable year was in 2006 when she and Yan Zi won two Grand Slam titles (Australian Open and Wimbledon).

This year, she created history by becoming the first China player to reach the Wimbledon semi-finals.

Sania Mirza

Sania, who won the mixed doubles gold with Leander Paes in the 2006 Doha Asian Games, has won one singles and eight doubles titles on the WTA Tour.

Zheng Jie

The exhibition is also a nice introduction to the Malaysian Open Classic, a new event on the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour calendar, to be hosted in Kuala Lumpur next February.

Tourism Minister Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen will launch the Russia v Asia match at the Pavilion in Kuala Lumpur today and joining her will be former star Anna Kournikova, the ambassador of the event.

Anna @ Pavilion KL

Celebrate the week ahead of Christmas in Malaysia with the tennis rendezvous at the Malawati Stadium, Shah Alam, on Dec 19-20...plan your visits now!!!

TQ 4 reading & VOTing

KL 89 : a moment to remember...

2009-10-21T23:34:00.000-07:00

The XVth Sea Games was held in KUALA LUMPUR from 20th to 31st August 1989. The XVth Sea Games was declared open by His Majesty, the Yang Di Pertuan Agong, on the afternoon of 20th August 1989. The capasity crowd of over 40,000 was treated to a spectacular display of sky-diving, mass gymnastic, traditional dances as well as the smart parade of athletes and officials of the ine participating countries in their colourful uniform.

A total number of 824 team officials, 1604 male athletes, and 732 female athletes, making a grand total of 3,160 participations were take part in KL 89 - XVth Sea Games. There were a total of 302 events competed under 24 sports in the programme.The games venues included; Stadium Merdeka, Stadium Negara, Stadium Badminton & many more sports arena arround Kuala Lumpur.

The closing ceremony of the games was officiated by the Honourable Prime Minister of Malaysia on 31st August 1989. The programme commenced at1630 hours with the final of the Football competition. A heavy storm persisted until well after the Football final had ended. The Best Male & Female Athlete Awards for the XVth Sea Games were presented to ERIC BUHAIN (PHI) and NURUL HUDA ABDULLAH (MAS) respectively.

Overall, the XVth Sea Games was a great success. The full cooperation and support of the member countries ensured the smooth management of the Games - KL89. A total of 52 new Sea Games record were established.The XVth Sea Games KL 89 drew great interest and support of the government and people of Malaysia as well as of the member countries.

XVth Sea Games, KL89 demonstrates the significance of the harmony in fostering frienship and understanding amongst the youth in the region. As we known, Sports is the best platform to unite Malaysians of various ethnic groups. Via sports, the 1Malaysia spirit can be easily infused to promote unity among the diverse ethnic groups like supporting and rooting for the Malaysian sportsmen and sportswomen in competitions.

The lighting of the games torch by His Majesty, the Yang Di Pertuan Agong, Sultan Azlan Shah.

Start off the KL 89 - XVth Sea Games torch run from Penang to KL.

Flag Handling ceremony to the Malaysian contingent by Honourable Prime Minister (Tun Dr. Mahathir) & Chairman of XVth Sea Games, KL89 (Dato' Seri Najib Tun Razak)

His Majesty, the Yang Di Pertuan Agong releasing a white dove, after declaring open the games.

Malaysian contingent at the games opening ceremony.

The capacity crowd of over 40,000 supporters @ Stadium Merdeka KL

Dato' Seri Najib Tun Razak supporting's to the athletes with parade of supporters. Malaysia Boleh!...Malaysia Boleh!...Malaysia Boleh!

Dato' Seri Najib Tun Razak with the champion...!

Dato' Seri Najib Tun Razak @ Faiznur Miskin victory ceremony.

Faiznur Miskin... she won the 5 gol medals.

Nurul Huda Abdullah the top medal winner with 8 GOLD & 2 Silver medals & winner of the best female athlete award.

Jeffery Ong winner of 400m and 1,500m...!

and

31 August 1989... The Final between Malaysia & Singapore was held @ the Stadium Merdeka at 7.30 p.m, just before the Closing Ceremony, Sea Games KL89. A capacity crowd of over 40,000 spectators withnessed a thrilling match which ended with Malaysia winning the GOLD medal with a score 3 - 1. The closing part of the first half and the whole of the second half was played in heavy rain.

31 August 1989... Malaysia (GOLD) Singapore (Silver) Indonesia (Bronze)

The 1989 Football Malaysian Tigers

Dato' Ahmad Basri (Team Manager)... and my stars Azizol Hj. Abu Haniffah.. kejor yeop kejor!

Subadron Aziz... Dollah Salleh... Zainal Abidin Hassan!

Champions in the rain...!

Won the Cup... Medals... and Bunga Telur...!

Malaysia Boleh! FT Boleh! Towards 1Malaysia, shares a desire for a better tomorrow... respect, friendship, and understanding.

Thanks for reading & voting!

Plan ur visits now!!! Coming Soon!!! Malaysia Savings Sale!!!

2009-10-20T21:26:00.000-07:00

29 Nov ’09 – 3 Jan ’10, Throughout Malaysia

The Malaysia Savings Sale is back and offers 37 days of fantastic retail therapy, great dining experience and fun-filled entertainment. This sale comes at a perfect time, coinciding with the Christmas and New Year celebrations as well as the Malaysian school holiday season. Visitors can shop and save as most items which range from apparels, accessories, home décor to dining, leisure and holiday package will be offered at discounted prices.

Top 10 Shoppers Paradise @ KL

www.pavilion-kl.com
www.suriaklcc.com.my
www.starhillgallery.com
www.midvalley.com.my
www.timessquarekl.com
www.hartamas-sc.com
www.bangsarvillage.com
www.avenuek.com.my
www.sungeiwang.com
www.ytlcommunity.com

Thanks 4 ur time to read this entry... vote please!

Thanks! for voting my ENTRY!

10 Best Things To Do @ KL

2009-10-20T20:52:00.000-07:00

While there is so much to see and do in KL, here are 10 things you just have to experience when visiting the city.

1.	Walk along the sky bridge that links the famous Petronas Twin Towers
2.	View the city from the Kuala Lumpur Tower.
3.	Walk Through Aquaria’s underwater tunnel.
4.	Appreciate the arts and crafts at Central Market and Karyaneka.
5.	Savour the authentic Chinese street food at the Jalan Alor.
6.	Go for a shopping spree.
7.	Watch the sun set over the city at Dataran Merdeka, before taking picture of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building when it is fully lit up.
8.	Explore the historical and modern sites of Kuala Lumpur on board the “KL Hop On Hop Off” bus.
9.	Savour a meal of “Nasi Lemak” and “Teh Tarik” in Kampung Baru.
10.	Remedy your body’s aches and pains with a massage by a blind masseuse in Brickfields. visitkl.gov.my

Thanks! for voting my ENTRY!

MotoGP 2009!!! Sepang

2009-10-19T19:51:00.000-07:00

MotoGP back in action!

After hosting the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix (MotoGP) for the past 19 years, the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) hope to unleash its very own Malaysian MotoGP team to compete in the world’s biggest and most prestigious race.

SIC Chairman Datuk Mokhzani Mahathir said the country’s dream of fielding a rider can become a reality through a ‘wild card’ entry for the 125cc during the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix to be held from Oct 23-25.

Program MotoGP Wildcard ini merupakan usahasama diantara Litar Lumba Antarabangsa Sepang (SIC) dan kumpulan-kumpulan sukan bermotor Motorsports Association of Malaysia(MAM), Automobile Association of Yamaha (AAM), Two Wheels Motor Racing (TWMR), Moto Millia dan Hong Leong Yamaha.

Elly di dalam Kejuaraan Cub Prix mewakili pasukan PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha Ah Hong, manakala Iskandar mewakili pasukan PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha Raceline. Farid dan Zulfahmi pula mewakili pasukan Modenas Yuzy Pachi Racing di dalam kategori Novis.

Dua pelumba 'wildcard' negara dalam kategori 125cc, Elly Idzlianizar, 25, dan Muhammad Zulfahmi Khairuddin, 18, berjanji akan memberikan persembahan terbaik mereka hujung minggu ini.

Grand Prix Motosikal Dunia MotoGP di Litar Antarabangsa Sepang (SIC)

Come lah...! to KL

2009-10-15T20:03:00.000-07:00

I am writing this entry from the visitors view... with absolutely packed week of going and doing @ KL

first view!... @ KL

view from the sky... what's that...?

AirAsia landing.. @ KLIA

luckily i have this interactive MAP ... very useful when i arrived @ KLia

experience of modern airport travel...

here.. the way i go...

WELCOME to MALAYSIA!

Yeahh..! here it KLIA view...

then i prefer to use train for my travel to KL... very fast... KLIA Express
KLIA Ekspres is the fastest way to travel to the city, as the journey only takes 28 minutes non-stop...

buy your tickets... and take a lift...

waiting for the next train... just 15 the train arrived on time lahh..

wahhhhhh...see! the train is equipped with comfortable seats, digital entertainment, a wheelchair seat restraint, a wheelchair-friendly washroom, and luggage racks... very nice...!

ha..ha.. bye bye KLIA see you again...! i'm on my way to KL Sentral?

and start dicovering KUALA LUMPUR!

Festivals @ KL - Deepavali 2009 Oct 17

2009-10-12T20:14:00.000-07:00

Deepavali

Deepavali or the ‘Festival of Lights’ is celebrated by Hindus with prayers, family gatherings and festivities. Open houses are held where family and friends visit each other and enjoy delicious Indian traditional goodies. Expect to find plenty of “muruku”, a crispy Indian delicacy that is particularly popular during this festival.

Here are the daytime and night time photo shot of Little India in celebration of the Deepavali. The Festival is the most important date in the Hinduism calendar. It is celebrated across the globe as the Festival of Lights. The festival features Street Light-Up, Heritage and Craft Exhibition, Bazaar and Trade Fairs.

Let's go to Little India (Brickfields) ... and see it's yourself...!

Events @ KL - Malaysia International Gourmet Festival

2009-10-12T20:06:00.000-07:00

Malaysia International Gourmet Festival
1 - 31 Oct ’09,Throughout Malaysia

The Malaysia International Gourmet Festival will run for the 9th consecutive year and promises to be a gastronomical extravaganza. During the Festival, restaurants put aside their competitive differences, share contacts and come together in a collective marketing effort. Rather than bringing in chefs from abroad for a one-off food promotion, the Festival’s unwavering focus is on the skills of the world-class chefs already residing in Malaysia and the all-year-round quality of our cuisine and restaurants.

Quiz - About old Kuala Lumpur ( part 2 )

2009-10-12T01:26:00.000-07:00

How much you know about the history of Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia? The following questions may show whether you know much or little...

6. One of the original streets of old Kuala Lumpur was called "Java Street", a name which remained until 1945 when it was changed - to what?

7. Yap Ah Loy insisted that in front of each home in Kuala Lumpur of his day should stand a jar, a barrel, full of stagnant water. For what purpose?

8. What in Yap Ah Loy's days used to take place in that area of Kuala Lumpur later known as Old Market Square.

9. The state Capital moved from Klang to Kuala Lumpur for the first time - when?

10. The first train from Klang to Kuala Lumpur had as its august passengers Sultan Abdul Samad, Sir Frederick Weld, the Governor of the Straits Settlements, and the Capitan China of Selangor who had succeeded Yap Ah Loy. What year was the railway opened and who was the Capitan China?

give yourself the correct answer...

and

thank you!

Old Kuala Lumpur

2009-10-09T00:54:00.000-07:00

Quiz - About old Kuala Lumpur ( part 1 )

2009-10-08T21:36:00.000-07:00

How much you know about the history of Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia? The following questions may show whether you know much or little...

1. One day in 1857, a group of boats travelled up the winding Klang River. Their occupants got off at a confluence with another river. Who were they and name the other river?

2. Kuala Lumpur itself probably began in 1858 or 1859. Do you know the name of the founder of the village who also become its first Capitan China?

3. Some time afterwards, a Capitan China was appointed who made a great impact on the growth of Kuala Lumpur. A street in Kuala Lumpur is named after him. Give the name?

4. Who was the ruler of Selangor when Kuala Lumpur was founded?

5. Name the man who was called "Viceroy of Selangor" in those days. He came from Selangor - true or false?

give yourself the correct answer...

2009-10-08T00:59:00.001-07:00

Terima Kasih!

See yourself in the Nation's Capital - Kuala Lumpur

2009-10-06T23:23:00.000-07:00

Kuala Lumpur is the largest city in Malaysia; it is also the nation's capital. The history of Kuala Lumpur began in the middle of the 19th century with the rise of the tin extraction industry.

Federal Capital of Malaysia, is nerve centre of the nation, with important roles in politics, administration, religion, commerce, sports and education.

With a population of about 2 million, Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant city in the heart of the Klang Valley. If Klang Valley residents are included, the greater Kuala Lumpur area population is about 4 million.

Kuala Lumpur is a 45 minutes drive and 35 minutes by KLIA Express (fast train) from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The KLIA is been recognised as one of the most modern, technically advanced airports in the world.

It is easily accessible by modern highways, and its patrons now enjoy a fast rail transit systems linking its main terminal in the heart at the city directly to the airport. A care fully planned complex of modern highways leads to, circles, or inersects the city from all points.

Multi-racial Kuala Lumpur offers a wide range of food - spicy Malay dishes, an endless variety of Chinese food, the exotic curries of India as well as superb European cuisine.

Boasting the world's tallest "Twin Towers", the city is known as a shoppers' paradise with first class retail centres situated in multi storey, airconditioned complexes. Entertainment in the city ranges from the many yearly festivals to ever colourful night life. From traditional dances and dramas to international shows, Kuala Lumpur has emerged as a showcase city in the region.