Wellington Alumni

Sabah Udate

2012-02-07T22:51:00.000-08:00

February 8, 2012

Update from K.K. Chong.

(A) ON FLIGHTS INTO KOTA KINABALU, SABAH

Intending Visitors are again urged to go online into Malaysia Airlines OR Air Asia website to grap your cheap cheap Air-tickets from Kuala Lumpur direct into Kota Kinabalu advisedly getting into Kota Kinabalu on the 16 September or 17 September if you guys are interested to join the special "Lest We Forget" Dinner Party to be hosted by me on the evening of the 17 September 2012.

There are many direct flights from Kuala Lumpur into Kota Kinabalu mounted by MAS or Air Asia daily. There are also daily flights flying direct from Kota Kinabalu to Kuching, Brunei, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei or Seoul if any one after visiting Kota Kinabalu do not plan to fly back to KL.

Air-Tickets into Kota Kinabalu from Kuala Lumpur, if booked anytime NOW are still very very cheap . Will not be that cheap come July , August or September.

(B) ON HOTEL ACCOMMODATION IN KOTA KINABALU, SABAH

Intending Visitors are at full liberty to access and book any hotels in Kota Kinabalu by obtaining full information from the SabahTourism Website or even from websites of hotels direct . I have however recommended a NO STAR RATED Hotel which I personally recommended to anyone interested and I plan to place all members of the Organising Committee ( who are coming ) into this recommended hotel called HotelSixty3. PLEASE access the website of this hotel to check it out : www.hotelsixty3.com and am sure many of you will love it.

I have met the Boss of this HotelSixty3 few days back and am pleased to inform that I have not only locked in a fixed daily rate of Ringgit Malaysia One Hundred and Seventy (RM170.00) Nett for any of our participants ( including family members ) who have attended the "THIS IS IT" Reunion in Kuala Lumpur and coming to Sabah for the month of September. This DAILY RATE of RM 170.00 nett is for the SUPERIOR KING OR TWIN ROOM ( 1 King bed OR 2 Single Bed ) as well as for the FAMILY DELUXE ROOM ( 2 Queen Bed ) . Intending guests to this HotelSixty3 must however quote my name please when making direct bookings unless preferring to pay a different rate !. Best is to email me or email any members of our Organising Committee detailing the number of days required , your date of arrival and date of departure .

(C) CONFIRMED GROUP PROGRAMMES IN KOTA KINABALU

(1) All of you arriving before 7pm on the 17 September 2012 are cordially invited for the Dinner Party ( venue to be informed in due course ) at Kota Kinabalu to be hosted by me. Attire will be smart casual or as dressy as you like . Full liberty is given to Ladies to dress to kill ( if not too late ! ).

(2) An overnight visit to Kundasang by air-conditioned coach or coaches, where the famed Mount Kinabalu National Park is situated is scheduled for the 19 September and returning the next day the 20 September. Depart Kota Kinabalu on the 19 September say around 9am for the National Park. Next day return to Kota Kinabalu say around 2pm. There will be a get together on the evening of the 19 September at the National Park for all who are joining this overnight trip. Golf can be arranged for "addicted" Golfers on the same afternoon of the 19 September if request if made to me. Otherwise we may visit some interesting places of attraction on our way to the Kundasang/National Park on the 19 September, such as the Ranau Poring Hotspring and/or the Kundasang War Memorial. The next morning being the 20 September, there will be an early round of golf tee, off 7am at the Mount Kinabalu Golf Club. Non Golfers will have the opportunity to visit the Fresh Vegetables Tamu Place in Kundasang and to feel the pulse of the local populace. After Lunch, depart for Kota Kinabalu around 2pm on the 20 September.

(3) Apart from the above TWO GROUP PROGRAMMES, visitors will have to plan their stay in Sabah as they wish by making own arrangements or plan through their own preferred local travel agents. Our recommended Inbound Travel Agent is Ms. Candy Chung of Popular Express Travel website www.popularexpress.com where interested visitors can decide on a good selections of local tours at very reasonable prices.

( D ) CONQUERING MOUNT KINABALU

(1) I have, through the kind assistance of the Director of Sabah Parks, been reserved 20 special Permits for 20 interested Climbers to scale Mount Kinabalu on a 3 days 2 nights Package ( 21 to 23 September ) for our intending Climbers at a cost of RM 630.00 Nett per person for 2 nights accommodation plus meals but excluding Mountain Climbing Fees payable as follows :

(a) Entrance Fee per person RM 15.00

(b) Climbing Permit per person RM 100.00

(c) Insurance per person RM 7.00

(d) CERTIFICATE per person RM 10.00

(e) Return Transfer TimpohonGate RM 8.00

(f) Compulsory GUIDES

1 to 3 Climbers in a group RM 128.00

4 to 6 Climbers in a group RM 150.00

( E ) DIVING AT WORLD TOP DIVING SITE - THE SIPADAN ISLAND ( + Mabul Island )

Special permits , very limited, will be procured for any of our interested guests interested to dive at the Sipadan Island but must be Padi Certified . For more information please go into www.borneodivers.com

NOTE : (1) Interested Climbers for Mount Kinabalu must let me have their confirmation with names and Passport details on or before the end of March 2012 please as these 20 special permits extended to us will have to be released to the public after the 31 March 2012. To date, I have 2 confirmed taking up the Climb.

(2) Interested Divers for Sipadan must let me have their confirmation with names and Passport details on or before the end of April 2012 to enable me to secure the required Permits to enter and dive in Sipadan from the relevant authority.

Cheers to all,

KK

Reunion Update #3

2012-01-01T03:59:00.000-08:00

January 3, 2012

And so this is Christmas,… and what have you done? Have you registered for our Reunion???

A (belated) Merry Christmas (on the 10th day) and Happy New Year to everyone…and we know it is going to be a good one!

Hi Friends,

After many sessions of exciting discussions and negotiations, we now have for you the details of our “THIS IS IT!” Reunion. We have taken great care in the planning as we aim to give it our BEST shot.

The cost of the Main Event in Kuala Lumpur (KL) is RM230 per head.
However, for overseas attendees from countries specified below, the cost is as follows,

Australia/US/Canada - AUD85 / USD85 / CND85
New Zealand/Singapore - NZD110 / SGD110

The difference in price is in line with our 2008 reunion. It is mainly to cover the fluctuations in exchange rates and bank charges. Whatever ‘extra’ we pay as a result of exchange rates gain, will go towards the event to make it a better one.
We will advise you of the payment method is due course. Careful consideration was given in arriving at the price for our last reunion. As you will see, this reunion is unlike any other reunion.

Each of you will have to make your own arrangements in regards to travel and accommodation. Where possible, the committee will provide guidance, recommendations and discounted rates to assist you in arriving at the destination with minimum disruption/stress.

The Main Event in KL is on Saturday, 15th of September 2012. It will be held at the One World (a 5-star rated) hotel located next to the popular ‘One Utama’, the biggest shopping complex in Malaysia. There will be ‘live’ band and performances throughout the evening. Special room rate (which we will announce later) is available to those who choose to stay at this 5 star hotel. Check the website.

In addition to this, there will be a Welcome Party sponsored by David Chin. It will be held at his restaurant, Dave’s Bristo Bar & Grill, in the One Utama shopping complex, on Thursday the 13th of September 2012. Those who attended the 2008 reunion, should remember the great time we had at this venue. There will be ‘live’ music with local food delicacies.

Golfers will get the opportunity to display their skills. A Golf Tournament will be organized in KL for those interested on Friday, 14th Sept. The details will be posted as we get nearer to the date.
Other informal gatherings will also be organized to make your stay in KL a pleasant and memorable one.

As if this is not enough, our dear friend, Chong Kah Kiat, has organized the trip of a lifetime to Sabah after the K.L. reunion, as promised.
The Sabah program is very flexible and it covers the period 16th to 30th September 2012. The actual length of stay is entirely up to you.
If you wish to join the ‘extended’ reunion party (highly recommended) in Sabah, you will have to make your own flight arrangements from KL to Sabah. Malaysian Airlines and Air Asia are the only two airlines that fly from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah.
When booking your flight to Sabah, please aim to arrive no later than the evening of the 17th September.

Before you make any decisions, please visit the website below, to get an idea of the activities/places of interest in Sabah. Carefully choose your activities to fit in with your length of stay in Sabah.

Sabah has a lot to offer. We recognize that each of you will be pursuing your own program whilst in Sabah. To this end, Kah Kiat, has set up the ‘infrastructure’ which allows each of us to do just that.
He has engaged Ms. Candy Chung (candy@popularexpress.com) of Popular Express (popularexpress.com) to handle your bookings for local tours and activities.

The recommended hotel in Kota Kinabalu is ‘Hotel Sixty3’. This is a BOUTIQUE hotel (not one of those common ‘star-rated’ hotels) located right in the center of city.

The person to contact when making your hotel booking is Mr. Nicholas Tan, Nicholas@hotelsixty3.com . However, you are free to choose other hotels in Kota Kinabalu if you wish and Ms. Candy Chung of Popular Express can help you to secure good rates.
When engaging Candy or Nicholas for bookings, please mention Chong Kah Kiat’s name to get your discounted rates. For the record, neither Kah Kiat nor the committee receives any ‘kickbacks’ or commission from them!

And, there is more….!
Kah Kiat has managed to secure 20 permits for the 22nd and 23rd September with the Director of the National Park for those who are keen to scale to the summit of Mt. Kinabalu.
The estimated cost of this adventure is between RM700 to RM800. This includes food, various climbing fees and one night accommodation at 12,000 feet!

Special arrangements have also been made to secure 20 Scuba Diving permits. The diving will take place at the Sipadan and Mabul islands for any time after 18th September.
The Sipadan Island is one of the top diving spots in the world. The fee for this is approx. RM800 per diver or RM500 for twin share per diver.
This cost, ex-Tawau, includes diving at both Sipadan & Mabul Islands, food and accommodation in Mabul Island per day. Divers must be certified to scuba dive at Sipadan but there is no restriction for diving at Mabul.

The above TWO permits are very difficult to obtain as there is always a long waiting list. It is through exceptional effort that Kah Kiat is able to secure them for us. I hope you will take advantage of his effort.
For those interested in either or both of the permits, please register your name with any committee member ASAP. The permits will be issued on ‘first come, first serve’ basis and only to those who have attended the Reunion in KL.
We will provide further details to those interested.

Now, if you wish a less challenging activity whilst in Sabah and be close to your long lost ‘cousins’, you can opt to spend a few nights with the Orang Utans in the Rainforests of Borneo (in the Sukau and/or the Danum Valley Rainforests). The rates for this activity will be available in due course.

Surely, this must be it! Nooooo…..
The ‘bonding’ continues… Golf sessions will be organized for those interested. There will be informal gatherings every night around respectable ‘watering-holes’ and/or restaurants to sample the local amber fluids, seafood and to exchange our daily pleasantries / experiences / adventures…..’sing along’,..etc. Just sheer unadulterated fun for the “young at hearts” and we all are.

To pack the FINAL ‘punch’, Kah Kiat will be sponsoring a ‘Lest We Forget’ Dinner Party to welcome everyone to Sabah on the 17th September, Monday night. So, the party continues in Sabah!
Phew, at last, ‘THIS IS IT’ !!! and it has to be a GREAT Reunion!

Now that the venue for the Main Event in KL is selected, there are limited places left for those who wish to join this reunion. The number is restricted by the size of the venue not by the committee. We don’t want you to miss out.
So, please register ASAP, your name and the actual number attending with any committee member if you wish to attend this Reunion.

Please, be clear with your registration and make no assumptions. Remind your friends. You are only registered if you specifically asked to be. Do not leave it to the last minute. There is no obligation attached when you register. Commitment only comes when you pay for the event.

I have attached to this update, a list of currently registered alumni for the Reunion. When reviewing this list, please check,

1) Are you registered? If yes, has your status changed due to unforeseen circumstance?
2) Did you include your spouse/partner?
3) Did you specify your option (i.e. ‘KL ‘or ‘KL & Sabah’).
4) Confirm your location of residency? This is to assist in payment collection in due course.

Due to the limited number of places remaining, it is important that you check and confirm the above to secure your place for the reunion.

Refer any changes to the committee members immediately.
Do forward this update to anyone who may be interested.
Oh yes, don’t forget to join our Facebook for informal updates throughout the year.

Do also visit our blog,

What more can I say…. If this reunion doesn’t get you to join in the fun with your ole’ pals, we understand and wish you well.
This will be the last Wellington Alumni Reunion by the original committee and we do like to see everyone there!

More specific details will soon follow.
256 days left and counting…Let us have something great to look forward to in 2012!

Take care and stay safe.
PS: If you have any queries please forward them to any committee member.

With Regards, Henry Cheong

Committee Members:

Michael Lim - mikelimhk@gmail.com
Teoh Lay Hock - teohfam@gmail.com
Zuraidah Omar - zuraidahomar@hotmail.com
Benny Tan - bennytan@gbaglobal.com
David Chin - delidavid@yahoo.com
Chong Kah Kiat - dckk52@gmail.com
Victor Fong - whykayfong@gmail.com
Ann-Mean Leo - leoannmean@hotmail.com

Freddie Seow - fred.seow@gmail.com
Henry Cheong - hhcheon@hotmail.com

Reunion Update #2

2011-12-27T23:37:00.000-08:00

August 20, 2011

Hi ALL,

Hope this note (Reunion Update # 2) reaches you well and fit for we have very exciting news for you.

The committee members have been working very hard to formulate a “KILLER” program for our “THIS IS IT” reunion. We are fully aware that for various reasons some of us may not be able to take full advantage of this exciting Reunion package presented before you. Hence, the key to our program is FLEXIBILTY yet ACTION PACKED.

Our dear friend, Chong Kah Kiat, has made an offer to the committee that simply bowled us over! He has offered to organize the “Chill-out” Reunion session in Sabah following our Main Event in Kuala Lumpur! For those of you who haven’t met Kah Kiat, the link below presents a short biography of him and his achievements since leaving Victoria University of Wellington.
Chong Kah Kiat

There is absolutely NO doubt that as ex-Tourism and Chief Minister of Sabah, Kah Kiat is BEST placed to provide an exciting/action packed visit to Sabah. There will be activities to fulfil everyone’s dream. The activities range from Scuba diving, superb Golfing, lazing on a beach, Bush walking, Seafood sampling,
Trek up the infamous Mt Kinabalu; ….to adopting an Orang Utan and spend the afternoon grooming each other! There are heaps to do in Sabah AND you are welcome to include family members if you feel it will enrich your stay there. Just check out the link below.
Sabah Tourism
You have a choice. Take it full on as “once in a life time dream” by going the whole hog (i.e. KL & Sabah visits) OR just an exciting evening in KL. The choice is yours for the taking. You know best how to spend this exciting reunion with your ole’ mates taking into consideration your other commitments.

Obviously at this stage, we cannot give you the Sabah program in detail other than to say that it will be a 4 days/3 nights organized affair. We need a show of numbers before we can work out the details. Of course you can choose to stay longer or shorter once the programs are confirmed. This is a Golden Opportunity not to miss. The more Sabah attendees we have the more exciting the programs there will be. This, we can promise you.

The Events in KL remain the same. The informal Welcome Party & Main Event will be held there. Exciting entertainments will be provided. This is where the “BIG BANG” will happen.

We ask you to please register your interests early. To be fair to everyone, if it comes to giving preferences, it will be done on the basis of “first come first served”. Hence, the earlier you put your names down, the better for you. Remember, you can always cancel the registration should your circumstance change. So, you have absolutely nothing to lose by registering early.

The 2 choices open to you are,...

1) The FULL Program (i.e. Kuala Lumpur & Sabah) – From 14th to 19th September 2012

2) The Welcome Party & Main Event (Kuala Lumpur only) – 14th & 15th September 2012

Please indicate your choice when registering and also quote the numbers attending. This includes those who have already submitted their names. We will provide costs once we have an indication of the numbers attending.
Regardless, you can bet that it will be an absolute “value for money” Reunion. We will use whatever resources/contacts available to us to negotiate the best deals for you.

If you have any hesitation of attending this Reunion, just read the blog below.
SeniorsAloud
We have also developed a ‘flyer’ to promote this Reunion and the theme is “We’ll ROCK till we DROP!!!” and this is exactly what we intend to do. We’ll ROCK you. Wanna feel of it???

There are no losers in this Reunion, whichever way you cut it you will win as the undisputed Champion. After all, we have (over the years) paid our dues time after time; gone thro’ ups & downs; have made a few mistakes and yet we all survived unscathed!
For that, we owe it to no one and have no guilt to gather and have a GREAT time. How about it Champs??? WE, are the Champions, my friends. Feel it man, ..…just FEEL it.

Don’t forget, please register your interests NOW! ….Help us to organise a memorable Reunion for everyone to enjoy.

If you have any queries, please just ask any committee members. We have extended the committee to include Chong Kah Kiat (Sabah) and Victor Fong (Sarawak) to help in organizing & promoting the event.
Its gotta be the "Ultimate" Reunion. Spread the word..Come one, come ALL!

Check out these links below for latest information.

Our facebook.

Our Wellington Alumni Blog – including previous (June ‘08) Reunion and ALL updates relating to "THIS IS IT" Reunion.

Take care, buddies.

With Regards, Henry Cheong

(If you wish to unsubscribe from this distribution list or you know of anyone who should be included in it, please let me know. Thx.)

Reunion Update

2011-12-26T08:02:00.000-08:00

June 7, 2011

You and I must make a pledge, we must bring REUNION back.

Where there is LOVE, I'll be there.....

I reach out my hand to you, I have faith in all of you.

Where there is FUN, I'll be there....

(Michael Jackson/Henry) Peace

Turn up your volume and listen to this hit song which sums up the responses to date (click on link below). Imagine being in the audience. Well, we hope to give you that feeling...a WILD ONE!

Hi Friends,

The response to date has been a resounding......"I'LL BE THERE!!!" Thanks my friends for your positive responses and kind words. The number registered in the first two weeks surpassed the number we had in the 1st six months after we launched the last 2008 Reunion! Absolutely A-M-A-Z-I-N-G....

The main purpose of this "so soon" an update is to inform you that we have created a facebook for us to keep in touch as the preparation for the Reunion moves along.

Feel free to join in if you already have a Facebook account. Add your FB friends to it, if they are interested. It is open to all. If you don't have a FB account, you may want to consider creating one. You can use this FB as a 'tool' to look up old friends, catch up with 'gossips' and interesting postings. Queries can also be posted here. Regular updates of the Reunion will continue via emails.

The committee had a preliminary discussion and had already agreed on the format of this Reunion. I can share that with you.

We believe the Main Event is going to be 'HOT'. In fact, soooo... hot that you will need a 'Chill-out' session at a resort to bring you back to earth. The proposed format, at this stage, is,

1) A Golf session - 'Limber Up'

2) A Welcome Informal Party - 'Lubricate your Throats'

3) The Main Event - 'The Wild One'

4) The 'Chill-Out' Therapy session at a resort - 'Relax and back to Reality'

The above full program will have you occupied for a week in Malaysia...and mind you I haven't included Shopping and Sight-seeing to the list yet! By the way, you are not obliged to attend all 4 events but it is unwise not to if you can make it.

I know you will enjoy this last reunion of ours and live to tell your grandchildren one day, along the line...

"Oh what a night...late September back in 2012. What a very special time for me... as I remember, what a night!" Sounds familiar?...click on the link below, turn UP the volume!!!; listen to this classic hit and get into the groove!!!!

What do you think? Good heh?

Very soon we will begin evaluating venues and resorts for the Reunion. We need to plan early to secure good weekend venues as they are snapped up very quickly.

Don't miss out. Please register your interest promptly.....and start planning your trip! (I have already joined the Air Asia Fan Club...my first step.)

Don't forget to join the facebook.

Take care.

With Warm Regards and ...Winking smile Lotta Luv,
Henry Cheong feeling groovy....

This Is It - Reunion 2012

2011-12-25T06:04:00.000-08:00

May 18, 2011

“Many years have passed, since those glorious 3 days

Upon the fields of Ole’ friendship

We forget corporate stress/ill feeling in its ominous form

As we walk in the fields of joy and laughter…

I never made promises lightly

And there have been some that I've broken

But I swear in the days still left

We will party together one last time...”

(Sting/Henry) Peace

****************************************************

Hi Friends,

Based on feedbacks/requests, we believe it is time for another ‘bash’ and re-acquaint ourselves. The ‘This Is It’ Reunion does connote that it is the last reunion this committee will organize.
For this reason we hope to make it a more memorable one for all. I can assure you that our 'This Is It' reunion will not suffer the same demise as the Michael Jackson concert of the same name!

This reunion (the Main Event) will be held on the Saturday, 15th September 2012 in Malaysia. So, you do have more than a year to plan for it. We will give you regular updates as the year moves towards this big event.

As usual it will be an inclusive rather than exclusive reunion. Meaning, we will make evey effort (within reason) to accommodate everyone who wishes to attend. On the other hand we fully understand that reunion is not for everyone and we always respect that.
Therefore should you wish to be deleted from this distribution list, please let me know. Alternatively, you can choose to remain on the list... just to stay in touch.

Although the organising committee members are all from Victoria University (NZ) in the 60's/70's, the 2012 Wellington Alumni Reunion (like the 2008 reunion) is open to anyone who had studied (in any institution), worked or have friends in Wellington.
That's why it is called..."Wellington Alumni Reunion". Please pass the word on to those who may be interested to attend....forward them this email.

The organising committee members of this event are,

Michael Lim mikelimhk@gmail.com
Teoh Lay Hock teohfam@gmail.com
Zuraidah Omar zuraidahomar@hotmail.com
Benny Tan bennytan@gbaglobal.com
David Chin delidavid@yahoo.com
Freddie Seow fred.seow@gmail.com
Henry Cheong hhcheon@hotmail.com

I do encourage you to join in the fun and I know you will not regret it. I've personally gained heaps from the 2008 reunion. I have re-pledged ole' friendships that have blossomed and enriched my life immensely and I hope it does the same for my friends.
We have stayed in touch; gone on trips together and even organise 'mini' reunions whenever opportunity arises. I have grown to understand and treasure these friendships much more. I strongly subscribe to the belief that in our twilight years, our lives should be more than just looking after grand-children, pottering in the garden or investing our pension.
We should have 'space' for ourselves to venture out of our comfort zone to add that extra 'sparkle' to our lives before we turn to dust.

I hope this video from my cousin's blog, 'seniorsaloud', will set you thinking...

(click on the video ...'what do people live for')

At this stage, we only need you to indicate your interest to attend this reunion. This is not a commitment but merely a show of interest. We will not hold you to anything. You can pull out later should circumstance change and you can no longer attend.
We need to have an indication of the number attending before any meaningful planning can take place. So, please pass your name and number attending to any of the committee members. We would appreciate if you don't leave this decision to the very last minute. We do need your cooperation to organise an event of this scale.

By the way, we will be setting up a facebook for the Wellington Alumni to stay 'connected'. It is not mandatory that you join this Facebook. Join only if you feel comfortable and are interested in knowing what is happening among us and news of common interest.
For those who are not familiar with Facebook (like me), you can set up a restricted FB account which will limit what people can see posted on your Facebook...just ask your grand-children and they will show you.

The following names from the previous distribution are now 'inactive' (received delivery failures). If you know anyone of them please inform them of this reunion and let me have their current email addresses

Alvin Chang
James Masing
Matthew Reweti-Gould
Mohd. Nor
Muhamed Arshad
Robert Clarke
Seng Pin Yoong
Tajuddin
Talib Zulkifli
Tharmarajah Suppiah
Ting Chan

We hope we have given you something to look forward to in 2012...Come on let's have some REAL fun together one last time. Thumbs up

I am definitely not going to sit at home and collect dust...not that you are!

So, add your name to the attendee list now...Winking smile. Oh yes, please do not assume that we know you will be coming. You must give your names and numbers attending for our register.

Take care.

PS: If I have wrongly included you on this distribution list or you don't wish to be on it, please let me know and I will immediately remove you from it. On the other hand if there are any names that should be included on this list, please pass them on to me... Thanks

Warmest Regards, Henry Cheong

'Allo 'Allo....

2011-11-30T17:08:00.000-08:00

.. Cousins??

Reunion 2012 Attendee List

2011-11-29T17:43:00.000-08:00

Name	Number	Location	KL & Sabah	KL Only	Comment	Number Attending to date:-	128
Ray Chung	1	New Zealand	1
Pak & Jane Yoong	2	New Zealand			Have not selected options	Number of Locals	34
Danny Chan	1	New Zealand			Have not selected options
Loh Chin Kong	1	Malaysia			Have not selected options	Number from O'seas	93
Richard Ng	1	Australia			Have not selected options
Henry & Siew Kin Cheong	2	Australia	2			Location Unknown	1
Freddie Seow & Foong Yook	2	Australia	2
Zuraidah Omar & Mohd. Noor	2	Malaysia	2			NOTE: 'Locals' are from the Malayan Peninsula and 'O'seas' are all others (incl. S'pore, Sarawak and Sabah)
Teoh Lay Hock & Betty	2	Malaysia	2
Benny Tan & Juat Mei	2	Malaysia	2			Number for KL & Sabah Events	52
Michael Lim & Mei Pieng	2	Malaysia	2
David & Maureen Chin	2	Malaysia	2			Number for KL Event only	31
KK & Bernice Chan	2	Malaysia			Have not selected options
Chuang Kuang Nge	2	Malaysia		2		Undecided	45
Mah Kok Wah	1	Australia			Have not selected options
Liak Teng Boo & Jessie	2	Australia	2
Victor & Amy Yee	2	Australia	2
Zoe Aitchison-Windeler	1	New Zealand			Have not selected options
Yong Yong & Gerry Leong	2	Malaysia		2
Ong Ying Ying	1	Singapore		1	Registered by Yong Yong
Peggy & Min Leong	2	Australia		2	Registered by Yong Yong
Chin Loon & Corrine Loh	2	Malaysia	2
Nicholas & Christine Leong	2	Australia	2
Kelly & Irene Tong	2	Hong Kong			Have not selected options
Chong Kah Kiat	2	Sabah	1
Lew Ten Huat	1	Malaysia		1
Daeng Chiradej	1	Thailand			Have not selected options
John Tan	1	New Zealand			Have not selected options
Amir Sharifuddin	1	Malaysia	1
Jeffery Khoo	2	Malaysia			Have not selected options (Registered by Chin Loon)
Karen Oei	1	Singapore	1
Andrew Liang	1	Hong Kong			Have not selected option
Phillip Yee & Lee	2	New Zealand			Have not selected options (brother of Victor Yee..also from Wellington!
Arthur Chan	1	New Zealand			Have not selected options
John Tran & Caroline	2	New Zealand			Have not selected options
Tong & Jenny Too	2	New Zealand			Have not selected options
Shauna Webber & John Adams	2	Canada	2
Leo Ann Mean	1	Malaysia		1
Kenny Chung	1	Malaysia		1
David & Rebecca Chan	2	New Zealand			Have not selected options
Philip Low	1	Malaysia			Have not selected options
Rudy Kinajil	2	New Zealand			Have not selected options
James Chua & Siew Lan	2	Australia			Have not selected options
Pauline Chew	1	Australia			Have not selected options
Judy Koh	1	Australia			Have not selected options
Joe & Daisy Teng	2	Australia			Have not selected options
Margaret Teoh	1	USA	1
Zaidi Zaine	1	Sarawak			Have not selected options
Victor Fong	2	Sarawak	2
Jenchurai Brown	1	Australia			Have not selected options
Raman & Kala	2	Australia	2
Daniel Tan & Marcia	2	Malaysia	2
Robert & Lee Clarke	2	New Zealand		2
David Ng (Penang)	1	Malaysia		1
Oxilia Kasitah	1	???		1	From VUW '96-'99. (Not on mailing list)
Kim & Kam Fatt Wong	2	Australia	2
Neil Walker	2	New Zealand	2
Margaret Seet	1	Australia	1
Chris and Wendy Tan	2	Malaysia		2
William Wee & Spouse	2	Australia		2
David Shand	1	New Zealand		1
Bill Soon & Spouse	2	Australia		2
Steven Tan & Spouse	2	Australia		2
Francis Chang & Kim	2	New Zealand	2
Ken & Sue Lim	2	Australia	2
Stephen & Catharine Franks	2	New Zealand	2		Not on mailing list
John Chin	1	Sarawak			Have not selected options (Registered by Michael Lim)
Felix Ho	1	Sarawak			Have not selected options (Registered by Michael Lim)
Ray & Cheryl Brownrigg	2	New Zealand	1	1
Tony & Pam Wong	2	Australia	2
Chin Tai Tat	1	Malaysia	1
Robert Pei & Alicia	2	Australia		2
Maurice & Corinne Webber	2	Australia		2
David & Rosie White	2	New Zealand			Have not selected options
Ong Ka Hock	1	Indonesia		1
Brian & Browyn Chambers	2	New Zealand		2
Andy & Jennifer Lim	2	Australia			Have not selected options
Charles Cheong	1	Australia			Have not selected options
Lee Whai Yih & Koon Eng	2	Singapore			Have not selected options
Datuk Meriam Yaacob	1	Malaysia	1
Yi Ling and Hubby	2	Malaysia	2
Leo Ann Puat	1	Malaysia	1



TOTAL	131		54	31

Venues, Tours and Rates

2011-11-28T06:05:00.000-08:00

Reunion Dinner

The cost of the Main Event in Kuala Lumpur (KL) is RM230 per head.

However, for overseas attendees from countries specified below, the cost is as follows,

Australia/US/Canada - AUD85 / USD85 / CND85

New Zealand/Singapore - NZD110 / SGD110

The difference in price is in line with our 2008 reunion. It is mainly to cover the fluctuations in exchange rates and bank charges. Whatever ‘extra’ we pay as a result of exchange rates gain, will go towards the event to make it a better one.

We will advise you of the payment method is due course.

One World Hotel

Dave's Bristo Bar and Grill

Sabah Tourism

(From KK Chong)

ON FLIGHTS INTO KOTA KINABALU, SABAH

Intending Visitors are again urged to go online into Malaysia Airlines OR Air Asia website to grap your cheap cheap Air-tickets from Kuala Lumpur direct into Kota Kinabalu advisedly getting into Kota Kinabalu on the 16 September or 17 September if you guys are interested to join the special "Lest We Forget" Dinner Party to be hosted by me on the evening of the 17 September 2012.

There are many direct flights from Kuala Lumpur into Kota Kinabalu mounted by MAS or Air Asia daily. There are also daily flights flying direct from Kota Kinabalu to Kuching, Brunei, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei or Seoul if any one after visiting Kota Kinabalu do not plan to fly back to KL.

Air-Tickets into Kota Kinabalu from Kuala Lumpur, if booked anytime NOW are still very very cheap . Will not be that cheap come July , August or September.

ON HOTEL ACCOMMODATION IN KOTA KINABALU, SABAH

Intending Visitors are at full liberty to access and book any hotels in Kota Kinabalu by obtaining full information from the SabahTourism Website or even from websites of hotels direct . I have however recommended a NO STAR RATED Hotel which I personally recommended to anyone interested and I plan to place all members of the Organising Committee ( who are coming ) into this recommended hotel called HotelSixty3. PLEASE access the website of this hotel to check it out : www.hotelsixty3.com and am sure many of you will love it.

I have met the Boss of this HotelSixty3 few days back and am pleased to inform that I have not only locked in a fixed daily rate of Ringgit Malaysia One Hundred and Seventy (RM170.00) Nett for any of our participants ( including family members ) who have attended the "THIS IS IT" Reunion in Kuala Lumpur and coming to Sabah for the month of September. This DAILY RATE of RM 170.00 nett is for the SUPERIOR KING OR TWIN ROOM ( 1 King bed OR 2 Single Bed ) as well as for the FAMILY DELUXE ROOM ( 2 Queen Bed ) . Intending guests to this HotelSixty3 must however quote my name please when making direct bookings unless preferring to pay a different rate !. Best is to email me or email any members of our Organising Committee detailing the number of days required , your date of arrival and date of departure .

Less We Forget - Dinner

All of you arriving before 7pm on the 17 September 2012 are cordially invited for the Dinner Party ( venue to be informed in due course ) at Kota Kinabalu to be hosted by me. Attire will be smart casual or as dressy as you like . Full liberty is given to Ladies to dress to kill ( if not too late ! ).

Hotel Sixty3

Warm Greetings from Hotel Sixty3!

Thank you for considering to stay at Sixty3 during your reunion event here

in September.

Hotel Sixty3 is centrally located and sits on the most historical street; Jalan Gaya.

From our location map here you will learn that we are located truly at the heart of Kota Kinabalu city,

with malls, convenience shops, banks, local and international eateries just steps away.

Kindly find the corporate rate we are extending to your party;

ROOM TYPE(Bed Type)	CORPORATE RATE (MYR)	APPROX ROOM SIZE (sqft)
STANDARD KING (1 king bed)	140.00nett	328
SUPER STANDARD KING/TWIN (1 king bed/2 single beds)	170.00nett	370
SUPERIOR KING/TWIN (1 king bed/2 single beds)	190.00nett	421
FAMILY DELUXE (2 queen bed)	240.00nett	441
EXECUTIVE DELUXE (1 king bed/1 sofa bed)	300.00nett	555
SUITE (1 king bed/1 sofa bed/living area/dining area)	450.00nett	719

All rates exclude breakfast.

You may find more description on the rooms and its amenities at our website http://www.hotelsixty3.com/.

I am pleased to assist you with your bookings and will be happy to provide any information necessary.

Many thanks and we look forward to welcome you in Kota Kinabalu!

Warm Regards,

Lisa S Ambrose

Hotel Manager

63, Jalan Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Tel : +6 088 212 663 | Fax : +6 088 318 863

Kundasang

An overnight visit to Kundasang by air-conditioned coach or coaches, where the famed Mount Kinabalu National Park is situated is scheduled for the 19 September and returning the next day the 20 September. Depart Kota Kinabalu on the 19 September say around 9am for the National Park. Next day return to Kota Kinabalu say around 2pm. There will be a get together on the evening of the 19 September at the National Park for all who are joining this overnight trip. Golf can be arranged for "addicted" Golfers on the same afternoon of the 19 September if request if made to me. Otherwise we may visit some interesting places of attraction on our way to the Kundasang/National Park on the 19 September, such as the Ranau Poring Hotspring and/or the Kundasang War Memorial. The next morning being the 20 September, there will be an early round of golf tee, off 7am at the Mount Kinabalu Golf Club. Non Golfers will have the opportunity to visit the Fresh Vegetables Tamu Place in Kundasang and to feel the pulse of the local populace. After Lunch, depart for Kota Kinabalu around 2pm on the 20 September.

Apart from the above TWO GROUP PROGRAMMES, visitors will have to plan their stay in Sabah as they wish by making own arrangements or plan through their own preferred local travel agents. Our recommended Inbound Travel Agent is Ms. Candy Chung of Popular Express Travel website www.popularexpress.com where interested visitors can decide on a good selections of local tours at very reasonable prices.

Popular Express

Mt. Kinabalu

CONQUERING MOUNT KINABALU

(1) I have, through the kind assistance of the Director of Sabah Parks, been reserved 20 special Permits for 20 interested Climbers to scale Mount Kinabalu on a 3 days 2 nights Package ( 21 to 23 September ) for our intending Climbers at a cost of RM 630.00 Nett per person for 2 nights accommodation plus meals but excluding Mountain Climbing Fees payable as follows :

(a) Entrance Fee per person RM 15.00

(b) Climbing Permit per person RM 100.00

(c) Insurance per person RM 7.00

(d) CERTIFICATE per person RM 10.00

(e) Return Transfer TimpohonGate RM 8.00

(f) Compulsory GUIDES

1 to 3 Climbers in a group RM 128.00

4 to 6 Climbers in a group RM 150.00

NOTE : (1) Interested Climbers for Mount Kinabalu must let me have their confirmation with names and Passport details on or before the end of March 2012 please as these 20 special permits extended to us will have to be released to the public after the 31 March 2012. To date, I have 2 confirmed taking up the Climb.

Sipadan Island

DIVING AT WORLD TOP DIVING SITE - THE SIPADAN ISLAND ( + Mabul Island )

Special permits , very limited, will be procured for any of our interested guests interested to dive at the Sipadan Island but must be Padi Certified . For more information please go into www.borneodivers.com

(2) Interested Divers for Sipadan must let me have their confirmation with names and Passport details on or before the end of April 2012 to enable me to secure the required Permits to enter and dive in Sipadan from the relevant authority.

Cheers to all,

KK

Sukau

Danum Valley Rainforests

NZ Universities Alumni Dinner

2011-11-28T03:11:00.000-08:00

Nov 28, 2011

(From; Leo Ann Mean)

Dear KL alumini,

I have been requested by the organisers to advertise this dinner. Kindly contact the organisers for further details. Thank you for your attention.

ALL GRADUATES FROM NEW ZEALAND UNIVERSITIES ARE INVITED
TO THE ALL NEW ZEALAND UNIVERSITIES ALUMNI NETWORKING DINNER

ON SATURDAY, 10 DECEMBER 2011
AT THE SMOKEHOUSE RESTAURANT, BANGSAR
NO. 67, JALAN TELAWI 3, BANGSAR BARU, 59100 KUALA LUMPUR
TEL: +60 3 2288 1510

6:30pm: Registration & Pre-Dinner Drinks
7:30pm: Welcome Remarks by UCAM President
7:35pm: Dinner commences

Attire : Batik/Smart Casual

NOTE : All beverages for Pre-Dinner Drinks and during Dinner, will be on personal accounts.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

RESERVATION FORM

ALL NEW ZEALAND UNIVERSITIES ALUMNI NETWORKING DINNER
SATURDAY, 10 DECEMBER 2011
THE SMOKEHOUSE RESTAURANT, BANGSAR
NO. 67, JALAN TELAWI 3, BANGSAR BARU, 59100 KUALA LUMPUR

PARTICIPATING ALUMNI ASSOCIATIONS CODE NO.

UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY ALUMNI, MALAYSIA (UCAM) 01
UNIVERSITY OF AUCKLAND ALUMNI 02
VICTORIA UNIVERSITY OF WELLINGTON ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF KL 03
UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF MALAYSIA 04
LINCOLN UNIVERSITY ALUMNI 05
MASSEY UNIVERSITY ALUMNI 06
UNIVERSITY OF WAIKATO ALUMNI ASSOCIATION, MALAYSIA 07
AUCKLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY ALUMNI (MALAYSIA) 08

NOTE: Please write the Code Number to indicate which Alumni Association you are with. Thank you.

I / We would like to make reservation/s for:-

Name:
H/P:
Code No:

Name:
H/P:
Code No:

Booking made by:

Office Tel:
Office Fax:

Signature: _____________________________ Date: _________________

PAYMENT INFORMATION

Cheque No:
X person/s X RM70.00
Total:

Bank-in / Cash:

Cost: - Dinner @ RM70.00 nett per person.
Please write Cheque payable to:- UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY ALUMNI, MALAYSIA, or bank-in directly -
UCAM Bank Account No (HLBB): 001-00-30169-2

BOOKING AND CANCELLATION POLICY
Reservations are limited to 80 seats only, and they will be on a “first come first serve” basis. Reservation should be received in advance by the UCAM office – at the latest by noon two (2) days prior to the event, on the 8 December 2011. Payments must be received prior to the event. Unless a cancellation of a reservation is received at least there (3) days before the event, on the 7 December 2011, members will still be charged for the booking, as UCAM makes commitments to the Smokehouse Restaurant. Thank you.

Please return the Reservation Forms to:
UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY ALUMNI, MALAYSIA (UCAM)
c/o New Zealand Unlimited Sdn Bhd, P O Box 10565, 50718 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03-2141 0822 / 42 Fax: 03-2141 0843
Email: ucam@ucam.org.myUniversity of Canterbury

Professor Walsh Visit to KL

2011-11-04T08:42:00.001-07:00

Nov 3, 2011

...(taken from Zu's facebook).

His Excellency David Pine, New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Malaysia and Professor Pat Walsh, Victoria’s Vice-Chancellor, warmly invite you to a Victoria University alumni function in Kuala Lumpur to be held at the Official Residence of the New Zealand High Commissioner.

Network with fellow Victoria alumni and staff, and catch up with the latest developments... at Victoria University.

Guest Speaker: Tan Sri Halim Saad will speak about the role of education in New Zealand-Malaysian relations.

Thurs 3 November 2011 7.30pm-9.30pm

Official Residence of the High Commissioner
15 Jalan Langgak Golf
55000 Kuala Lumpur

RSVP by 26 October 2011 with your full graduation name and “KL” in the subject line to alumni@vuw.ac.nz

Please feel welcome to forward this invitation to other Victoria alumni

2011-10-28T16:46:00.000-07:00

From: Shenwei Teo's Facebook

There is also an alumni function in Singapore for those of you who are working there or live in the south.
Saturday 5 November 2011

6.00pm – 8.00pm

Official Residence of the High Commissioner (NZ)

28 Queen Astrid Park

Singapore 266833

Please RSVP by 26 October with your full graduation name in the subject line of your email.

2011-10-23T18:42:00.000-07:00

October 23, 2011

New Zealand win the 2011 Rugby World Cup

New Zealand ended 24 years of misery when they edged France 8-7 to win the Rugby World Cup for a second time here on Sunday.

Hajj - The Humbling Journey by Zuraidah Omar

2011-10-19T00:18:00.000-07:00

Zuraidah's blog

Professor Pat Walsh visit to Sarawak

2011-10-12T02:10:00.000-07:00

October 10, 2011

From:Leo Ann Mean

For alumni resident in Sarawak, you are invited to the function in Kuching:

Victoria University Alumni in Kuching

Vice-Chancellor Professor Pat Walsh warmly invites you to a Victoria University alumni function in Kuching. Network with fellow Victoria alumni and staff, and catch up with the latest developments.

Wed 2 November 2011
7.30pm-9.30pm

Hotel Hilton Kuching
Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman
93748 Kuching

RSVP by 26 October 2011 with your full name and “Kuching” in the subject line to alumni@vuw.ac.nz

Please feel welcome to forward this invitation to other Victoria alumni

Christchuch Earthquake Disaster Appeal

2011-03-02T02:12:00.000-08:00

March 2, 2011

Dear fellow alumni of VUW,

Immediately after the devastating earthquake hit Christchurch, some members of the VUW Alumni Association of KL contacted Richard Tankersley, Chairman of the Malaysia New Zealand Chamber of Commerce (MNZCC) and also President of the University of Canterbury Alumni in Malaysia to see if we could jointly start a fund to collect donations for the earthquake victims. In the meantime the Malaysian Australian New Zealand Association had also contacted Richard offering to help. Through the good office of Richard Tankersley and the committee members of the MNZCC, and with the assistance of several alumni members, an account was quickly opened at the CIMB Bank PNB branch. The purpose of setting up this account is to make it easier for caring Malaysians and those living in Malaysia to make donations to the earthquake victims.

As part of the fund raising process, we, the MNZCC and the various NZ universities alumni associations in Malaysia are now reaching out to alumni from New Zealand universities residing in Malaysia to inform them of the establishment of this fund and also to appeal to them to donate generously towards this fund.
Please note that the fund is set up not only to collect donations from alumni. We welcome donations from anyone and everyone. We have had many calls from lay persons who have no connections with New Zealand wanting to make donations.

The account details are as follows:-
* Name of the Account : Christchurch Earthquake Disaster Fund
or
: Malaysia New Zealand Chamber of Commerce – acceptable.
* Account Number : 142 5000 5676 050
* CIMB Branch : CIMB Bank Berhad

1st Floor, Menara PNB
201-A, Jalan Tun Razak
50400 Kuala Lumpur

1. Send your cheque in favour of “CHRISTCHURCH EARTHQUAKE DISASTER FUND” to Malaysia New Zealand Chamber of Commerce, c/o Unit 18E, Level 2, Lot 18, Jalan P. Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur.

2. Pay into the “CHRISTCHURCH EARTHQUAKE DISASTER FUND” CIMB Account No. 14250005676050 and fax, email or post the pay in slip to: Malaysia New Zealand Chamber of Commerce, c/o Unit 18E, Level 2, Lot 18, Jalan P. Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur , Tel: 6-03-2144 2422 Fax: 6-03-2144 1422 email: info@mnzcc.org.my Contact person: Ms Alphonsa Mariadass, Executive Officer.

Receipts will be sent to all contributors who provide their names and addresses.
For detailed information on the Fund please contact:
Richard Tankersley (+60-19-221 2222, email rntank@tm.net.my) or Teoh Lay Hock (+60-12-5005 779, email: teohfam@gmail.com)
-------------------------
The Prime Minister John Key said today, Treasury's early estimate of the damage caused by last week's 6.3-magnitude quake was between $10 to $15 billion - two to three times the $5b estimated cost of September's 7.1-magnitude quake and 7 to 8 per cent of the GDP, compared to Hurricane Katrina's one per cent impact on the US economy.
At the weekend, Mr Key launched a global fund-raiser, the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal. Donations can be made at www.christchurchearthquakeappeal.govt.nz

Superintendent Dave Cliff told a joint media conference in the city today that the death toll had now reached 148, with more bodies expected, and that the death toll could reach 200.

Your kind support is much appreciated.
My kind regards,

Teoh Lay Hock
VUW Alumni Association of KL

Photos of some of Christchurch's hardest hit buildings
from before and after the earthquake.

[The Canterbury TV (CTV) building. Photos / Google Maps, Mark Mitchell]

Christchurch's Anglican Cathedral

[The Catholic Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. Photos / Robert Cutts on Flickr, NZPA]

[The Regent Theatre. Photos / Christchurch City Libraries on Flickr, Jeremy Hitchings]

[The Provincial Chambers. Photos / Flickr user Kate's Photo Diary , Simon Baker]

[The Carlton Hotel. Photos / Christchurch Star, Getty Images]

[The Pyne Gould Corporation building. Photos / Twitter]

[Charlie B Backpackers. Photos / Supplied, Simon Baker]

2011-02-24T21:20:00.000-08:00

February 24, 2011

Moment the earth began to rumble

A PLUME of dust rises over Christchurch as the city's buildings crumble into the fracturing earth beneath them.

2011-02-24T21:12:00.000-08:00

2010-09-04T20:30:00.000-07:00

Christchurch Earthquake

2010-09-04T19:34:00.000-07:00

Basic First Aid

2009-12-28T01:19:00.001-08:00

Healthy Living

2009-12-23T15:10:00.001-08:00

Mediterranean Diet

Secrets of Longevity

Aging - What to Expect

Keeping Abreast

Other Sites

2009-12-22T17:44:00.000-08:00

Lion cub mother's courage

CLINGING on for dear life to the side of a vertical cliff, the tiny lion cub cries out for help.
Captured by wildlife photographer Jean-Francois Largot in Kenya's Masai Mara game reserve, the cub's mother arrives at the cliff face with three other lionesses and a male.
The females start to clamber down together but turn back daunted by the sheer drop.

But the cub's mother perseveres, reaches the youngster and carries him back to safety in her mouth.

Colourful Chong Family Book launched

2009-12-22T16:53:00.000-08:00

December 22, 2009

Former Sabah chief minister Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat has sought out his roots, writing a book about the early life and times of Chinese migrant settlers. And it’s all in honour of his parents. The Star

Welcome to The Jungle

2009-10-27T21:46:00.000-07:00

October 27, 2009

Author Steven Oh takes us deep into the Golden Jungle, where a climactic battle for its treasures is about to begin.

On stage with Elaine Kang.

Distinguished guests

Chris and Wendy Tan

David and Daniel

Maureen and David

More guests

Jukebox

2009-10-17T17:11:00.000-07:00

Playa Cofi Jukebox

Instrumentals - Easy Listening

Oldies

Create a MySpace Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Guitar Instrumentals;

Create a MySpace Music Playlist at MixPod.com

The Sixties

2009-10-12T23:20:00.000-07:00

The Sixties

Melbourne

2009-09-25T00:44:00.001-07:00

Video - Mike's place Reunion 2008

2009-06-25T21:37:00.002-07:00

Micheal's Farewell Party 1

Micheal's Farewell Party 2

Micheal's Farewell Party 3

Micheal's Farewell Party 4

Video - Lake Club Reunion 2008

2009-06-25T21:37:00.001-07:00

Royal Lake Club - Registration

Lake Club - Getting Aquainted again

Lake Club - Setting the mood

The Haka

Lake Club - Introducing the Committee members

Lake Club- Vice Chancellor's speech

The Streamlads - Cossack Melody

The Streamlads - Apache

The Streamlads - Move It/ The Young Ones

The Streamlads - Shanty

Deang - Smoke Gets in your Eyes

Deang - What a wonderful world

Neol - Elvis

The Lost Amigoes - Hey Jude

The Lost Amigoes - Those were the days..

The Lost Amigoes - Reflections of my life

Video - Dave's Deli Reunion 2008

2009-06-14T19:08:00.002-07:00

Golf at Glenmarie

Dave's 1

Dave's 2

Dave's 3

Tony singing -

Events 2009

2009-04-29T23:55:00.000-07:00

Professor Pat Walsh's Visit
The Hilton Hotel Singapore April 29, 2009

The Haka

2009-02-23T14:43:00.000-08:00

Ka Mate - The Chant

Haka Basics

Photos at Mike's place

2008-11-07T23:28:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of Whai Yih's websites - Mike's place

Photos at The Lake Club

2008-11-06T00:45:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of Whai Yih's websites- Lake Club

Old friends met after >35yrs at One World Hotel

The Star - Rolling back the years' type

The Star (Part 2)

The Star (Part 3)

Registration Table

Registration: Chew Har, Richard

3 symmetrically diamond-cut/polished heads

Chris, KK, Joe

Zainal, Loh Chin Kong, Tan Huat Lee, Steven Oh, Edward and Laura Oh

Amir, James Chua and wife, Siew Lan

Zu, Robert Liu, Audrey, Meriam

Edward, Seik Ngor, Laura Oh, Chew Har

One World Hotel - The ladies are ready...'

13

Whai Yih, Susan, Bernice, Peggy
Vuw Vice Chancellor

Pat Walsh

Meriam, Gillian Dias, Pat Walsh & David Kersey

Pat Walsh, Mike Connolly & Micheal

Pat Walsh & David

Pat Walsh, Ken Lim and Steven Oh
It’s zee best..

Daniel Tan, Halim Saad, Joseph Teng, Diasy Teng and Ronnie Lo

Boo, Jessie, Kwan Ling, Zu and Richard

Hazel, Kim, Kam Wong & Bernice

Entree with Marcia and Richard

Gerry, Philip, Tong, Roger

Leanne & Mark

Kwan Ling, Jessie and Wendy

Joe, Daisy, Ernest, Sue & Betty

Chong Kah Kiat and Kam Fatt

The NZ High Commissioner David Kersey & Gillian Dias

Gillian Dias, David Kersey and Lay Hock

Peter Sim, David Ng, Neoh Chong Eang. Albert Kok, Daniel Tan, Philip Low

Daniel, Halim, Joe, & Daisy

Albert, Benny & & Jenny

Dad’s army performing the Haka

Oh, What a night!

The guests

Another Happy Group

More guests

and more

More

The crowd..even some younger ones couldn’t resist tagging along.

Peli Aron, Nensa & Ernest Choo

Koon Eng & Whai Yih ( Our unofficial photographer)

Carol and Chong Haee Lee

Siew Lan, Seik Ngor, ?, Ng Chew Har

Joe, Chris, Richard, Benny, James

Philip Low, Min Leong, Kelly Tong, Richard Ng, Benny Tan

Chris Tan, Boo Liak, Joe Teng, James Lee

Robert and Lee Clarke'

The Star reporter Ms Tho Xin Yi with Shauna and John (from Ottawa, Canada)

Stephen Hall and Pat Walsh

Amin and Faridah Admad

Tong Too, Albert, Benny, Jenny, Daisy and Roger

Peter Sim(Wgton), Sue, Ken, Tai Tat, Neoh

Susan and Michael Lim

Ong Min Leong with wife, Peggy

Robert Liu, Yeong Yong and Gerry Leong

Amin &; Zainal

Margaret & Michael Tham

Marcia Tan and Danny Chan

Amy with Hubby, Victor Yee

Friends deep in conversation with Mike Connolly

Sally and Edward Tan

Blow louder.. Henry

Lucky Draw, Tharma won the Aust. native Didgeridoo

Joseph, Tharmarajah, Nahendran, Boo Liak

Mei Peng n Kah Hock leading the line dancing

Dancing the night away

Kelly; Irene Tong with Kim and Kam Fatt Wong

John Chin, Victor Fong,Barry Khor, Ann Puat

Chris Tan, Ong Kah Hock, Jeffery Khoo

Jenny Liang and Juat Mei Tan

Rahim Akmar and Audrey Lim

Geok Leng, Seik Ngor, John Chin, Doreen, Siew Kin

Lily and Mohktar Che Ali

Amir, Michael and Chin Loon

Elizabeth, Claudette

Elizabeth, Claudette and Harry(Sydney group)

Harry & Claudette Ngan

Chris and Wendy Tan

KK and wife, Bernice

Another happy group

Albert Koh, Benny, Fred, Albert Kok, David Chin, Tony Wong, Henry

Daeng, The Streamlads and family members

Yes, KK is the best drummer

Robert and Veronica Liu

Henry with his old mentor, Chin Loon

Chin Loon and wife, Corrina

Mei Peng and Mike Lim

Ang Kim Jhew

Jenny Ow(Perth) and Rahim Akmar

Corrine & Maurice Webber

Tony Tan

Philip Low

Kelly Tong & Richard Ng

Tai Tat

Yeong Yeong and Gerry

Jessie & Liak Boo

Roy Yap

Andrew Liang & Kwan Ling

Mark Hammond & Whai Yih

Lay Hock

Peter & Ronnie

David

Loh Chee Kong & Esther

John Chin & Steven Oh
Size 20

Tony Wong

Brian and Ray Chung (Auckland group)

Ray

Brian

Robert Liu, Ying Ying & Yeong Yong

Yow Shan(Ottawa) & Judy Koh (Adelaide)

Victor Yee and Alister wong'

Fred,Tong, meng Leong, Kah Hock, Jeffery Khoo, Philip Low

Daeng

Daeng, a polished performer

Josh, Henry & Andrew

The Lost Amigos (David Chin, Tony Wong, Henry Cheong

The Streamlads performing The Young Ones

Resident band, "The Ghostriders

Elvis

Elvis (Noel)

The Die-Hards who stayed till the very last...

Photos at Dave's Deli

2008-11-05T02:07:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of Whai Yih's websites

Hi folks, we are finally here..

Koon Eng

Dave’s Deli:

David Chin, the owner of this superb venue

Siak Eoi and Siew Lan

Koon Eng, John and Shauna

Siew Lan and Marcia

Jenny Liang, Sue, Ken Lim, Maureen, Albert Kok'

Pole Dancing.. anyone? Benny, Joe, Ken Lim, Richard, Tong Too, Fred

Danny, Michael, Mei Peng, Whai Yih, Kenny Chung,

Leanne, Foong Yook, Jenny, Mark

Tony Wong, James Chua

Koon Eng, Chin Loon, Hae Lee, Mike Lim

Charles and Christine How

Sharon Chin and friend'

David, Tony, Albert, Henry, Tang Koon Eng

James Chua and Siew Lan

Steven Oh

Doreen, Daniel Tan, Geok Leng, Siew Kin, Hazel, Foong Yook, Henry, Roxanne

Whai Yih, Mei Peng, Siew Lan, Margaret Yip (L.A./USA)

Juat Mei Tan and Marcia Tan

Resident singer, Frankie

Hazel Khoo, Roxanne Ng, Jessie, Victor, Kwan Ling,,Andrew Liang

Seng Pin, Tony, Benny

Daniel, Amy, Victor, Danny

Jenny, Fred, Foong Yook, Tong,Wee Cheng Yong, Boo, Jessie, Ka Hock

Ong Ka Hock

Jessie, Boo Liak, Chris Tan, Richard Ng

Roxanne Ng, Sue Lim, Hazel Khoo

Benny, Tony

Liz, Harry, Claudette, Norman

Liz n Norman

UHeng

Leanne, Mark Hammond, Jenny

Daeng, the Crooner..

Koon Eng, Whai Yih, Bernice, Susan, Michael Lim Choo San and K.K. Chan

Henry Cheong, Michael Lim, Joseph Teng

Albert Kok and wife, Jenny.

Old friends..Kwan Ling with hubby, Andrew Liang, Haee Lee, Chin Loon, Joseph
Teng and Bo

Michael Lim CS couldn't believe that is Joseph Teng

Jeffery and Lindsay Khoo

Liak Boo, Jenny Tong, Liz Poy, Jessie Liak, Victor, Amy, Joe Teng

‘Allo ‘allo
Bugger..

Was it the lizard that did it...??

Haka rehearsal - This is deadly serious stuff...'

OK... louder this time....HEE !!!'

The Reunion 2008

2008-11-01T03:58:00.000-07:00

The Wellington Alumni Reunion held in Kuala Lumpur in June 2008 was a roaring success by any measure.

The reunion was held over three days starting with a golf session on the morning of 26th June to kick off the event. That evening, we had a ‘Welcome’ party sponsored by David and Maureen Chin to warm up the soul for the main event.

The Big Reunion party itself was held on 27th June with about 200 guests backed by a 3-piece band, The Ghostriders, playing 60’s/70’s music to reflect the mood of the occasion. This was followed by a ‘Farewell’ party held on the 28th June which was fully sponsored by Michael Lim and wife, Gan Mei Peng.

It all began in the 90’s when the idea of a reunion was first mooted by Benny Tan but it took many years after before the reunion seed was sown.

In June 2007, a group of old friends (Hai Tong Too from NZ, Ron Too, Ken Lim, Richard Ng, Tony Wong, Fred Seow from Sydney and yours truly) gathered in Melbourne for a ‘Tribute to The Shadows’ concert.

It was the common interest in music among these friends and the desire to perform again that started the reunion train in motion. What a better way to do it than performing as a band in a reunion among old friends?

The drive for a reunion soon turned to include the strong desire to meet up with old friends.
It took a few more months before Freddie and I could take first step towards organizing the reunion. In late 2007, I received an email from a friend that some ole’ buddies of mine in Kuala Lumpur would like to catch up with me. These buddies turned out to be Michael Lim and Teoh Lay Hock. I was truly over the moon when I heard from these guys.

They gave us their unwavering support and backed us all the way. On another front, David Chin and Benny Tan were also ‘gung-ho’ about a reunion. So, along with a quiet achiever, Zuraidah Omar, we formed the Reunion Organising Committee. The scope of the reunion was quickly defined to be an inclusive one with a 60’s/70’s mood. The rest is ‘history’…albeit a very good one.

The key success of this reunion, apart from the tremendous turn-out, is the ‘mix’ of the committee members. They were all very committed and focused on the issues at hand. They worked tirelessly towards a single objective (i.e. let's have one helluva great party!) Not a single disagreement ever surfaced throughout the planning of the event. They did it for the fun of it. The joy and smiles on everyone’s face was a bonus to them.

Henry Cheong.

Reunion Committee members 2008

Grand reunion for Wellington alumni

Rolling back the years

Some really old photos...

2008-05-11T22:24:00.000-07:00

Mike's

Alzheimer's

2008-05-06T08:19:00.000-07:00

Keeping brain sharp

“The idea that Alzheimer's is entirely genetic and unpreventable is perhaps the
greatest misconception about the disease,” says Gary Small, M.D., director of
the UCLA Center on Aging. Researchers now know that Alzheimer's, like heart
disease and cancer, develops over decades and can be influenced by lifestyle
factors including cholesterol, blood pressure, obesity, depression, education,
nutrition, sleep and mental, physical and social activity.

The big news: Mountains of research reveals that simple things you do every day might cut your odds of losing your mind to Alzheimer's.

In search of scientific ways to delay and outlive Alzheimer's and other
dementias, I tracked down thousands of studies and interviewed dozens of
experts. The results in a new book: 100 Simple Things You Can Do to
Prevent Alzheimer's and Age-Related Memory Loss (Little, Brown; $19.99).
Here are 10 strategies I found most surprising.

1. Have coffee. In an amazing flip-flop, coffee is the new brain tonic. A large
European study showed that drinking three to five cups of coffee a day in
midlife cut Alzheimer's risk 65% in late life. University of South Florida
researcher Gary Arendash credits caffeine: He says it reduces dementia-causing amyloid in animal brains. Others credit coffee's antioxidants. So drink up, Arendash advises, unless your doctor says you shouldn't.

2. Floss. Oddly, the health of your teeth and gums can help predict dementia. University of Southern California research found that having periodontal disease before age 35 quadrupled the odds of dementia years later. Older people with tooth and gum disease score lower on memory and cognition tests, other studies show. Experts speculate that inflammation in diseased mouths migrates to the brain.

3. Google. Doing an online search can stimulate your aging brain even more than reading a book, says UCLA's Gary Small, who used brain MRIs to prove it. The biggest surprise: Novice Internet surfers, ages 55 to 78, activated key memory and learning centers in the brain after only a week of Web surfing for an hour a day..

4. Grow new brain cells.. Impossible, scientists used to say. Now it's believed that thousands of brain cells are born daily. The trick is to keep the newborns
alive. What works: aerobic exercise (such as a brisk 30-minute walk every day), strenuous mental activity, eating salmon and other fatty fish, and avoiding obesity, chronic stress, sleep deprivation, heavy drinking and vitamin B deficiency.

5. Drink apple juice. Apple juice can push production of the “memory chemical” acetylcholine; that's the way the popular Alzheimer's drug Aricept works, says
Thomas Shea, Ph.D., of the University of Massachusetts. He was surprised that old mice given apple juice did better on learning and memory tests than mice that received water. A dose for humans: 16 ounces, or two to three apples a day.

6. Protect your head.. Blows to the head, even mild ones early in life, increase odds of dementia years later. Pro football players have 19 times the typical rate of memory-related diseases. Alzheimer's is four times more common in elderly who suffer a head injury, Columbia University finds. Accidental falls doubled an older person's odds of dementia five years later in another study. Wear seat belts and helmets, fall-proof your house, and don't take risks.

7. Meditate. Brain scans show that people who meditate regularly have less cognitive decline and brain shrinkage — a classic sign of Alzheimer's — as they age. Andrew Newberg of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine says yoga meditation of 12 minutes a day for two months improved blood flow and cognitive functioning in seniors with memory problems.

8. Take D. A “severe deficiency” of vitamin D boosts older Americans' risk of
cognitive impairment 394%, an alarming study by England's University of Exeter finds. And most Americans lack vitamin D. Experts recommend a daily dose of 800 IU to 2,000 IU of vitamin D3.

9. Fill your brain. It 's called “cognitive reserve.” A rich accumulation of life experiences — education, marriage, socializing, a stimulating job, language skills, having a purpose in life, physical activity and mentally demanding leisure activities — makes your brain better able to tolerate plaques and tangles. You can even have significant Alzheimer's pathology and no symptoms of dementia if you have high cognitive reserve, says David Bennett, M.D., of Chicago's Rush University Medical Center.

10. Avoid infection. Astonishing new evidence ties Alzheimer's to cold sores, gastric ulcers, Lyme disease, pneumonia and the flu. Ruth Itzhaki, Ph.D., of the University of Manchester in England estimates the cold-sore herpes simplex virus is incriminated in 60% of Alzheimer's cases. The theory: Infections trigger excessive beta amyloid “gunk” that kills brain cells. Proof is still lacking, but why not avoid common infections and take appropriate vaccines, antibiotics
and antiviral agents?

What to Drink for Good Memory
A great way to keep your aging memory sharp and avoid Alzheimer's is to drink the right stuff.

a. Tops: Juice. A glass of any fruit or vegetable juice three times a week slashed Alzheimer's odds 76% in Vanderbilt University research. Especially protective:blueberry, grape and apple juice, say other studies.

b. Tea: Only a cup of black or green tea a week cut rates of cognitive decline in older people by 37%, reports the Alzheimer's Association. Only brewed tea works. Skip bottled tea, which is devoid of antioxidants.

c. Caffeine beverages. Surprisingly, caffeine fights memory loss and Alzheimer's, suggest dozens of studies. Best sources: coffee (one Alzheimer's researcher drinks five cups a day), tea and chocolate. Beware caffeine if you are pregnant, have high blood pressure, insomnia or anxiety.

d. Red wine: If you drink alcohol, a little red wine is most apt to benefit your
aging brain. It's high in antioxidants. Limit it to one daily glass for women,
two for men. Excessive alcohol, notably binge drinking, brings on Alzheimer's.

e. Two to avoid: Sugary soft drinks, especially those sweetened with high fructose corn syrup. They make lab animals dumb. Water with high copper content also can up your odds of Alzheimer's. Use a water filter that removes excess minerals.

5 Ways to Save Your Kids from Alzheimer's Now
Alzheimer's isn't just a disease that starts in old age. What happens to your
child's brain seems to have a dramatic impact on his or her likelihood of
Alzheimer's many decades later.

Here are five things you can do now to help save your child from Alzheimer's and memory loss later in life, according to the latest research.

1. Prevent head blows: Insist your child wear a helmet during biking, skating,
skiing, baseball, football, hockey, and all contact sports. A major blow as well
as tiny repetitive unnoticed concussions can cause damage, leading to memory loss and Alzheimer's years later.

2 Encourage language skills: A teenage girl who is a superior writer is eight
times more likely to escape Alzheimer's in late life than a teen with poor
linguistic skills. Teaching young children to be fluent in two or more languages
makes them less vulnerable to Alzheimer's.

3. Insist your child go to college: Education is a powerful Alzheimer's deterrent. The more years of formal schooling, the lower the odds. Most Alzheimer's prone: teenage drop outs. For each year of education, your risk of dementia drops 11%, says a recent University of Cambridge study.

4. Provide stimulation: Keep your child's brain busy with physical, mental and
social activities and novel experiences. All these contribute to a bigger,
better functioning brain with more so-called 'cognitive reserve.' High cognitive
reserve protects against memory decline and Alzheimer's.

5. Spare the junk food: Lab animals raised on berries, spinach and high omega-3 fish have great memories in old age. Those overfed sugar, especially high fructose in soft drinks, saturated fat and trans fats become overweight and diabetic, with smaller brains and impaired memories as they age, a prelude to Alzheimer's..

How to Ward off Dementia:

Implementation of some of these ideas may help!

To help ward off dementia, train your brain.
Timing is everything, comedians say.

It's also important when it comes to taking care of your brain. Yet
most of us start worrying about dementia after retirement - and that
may be too little, too late.

Experts say that if you really want to ward off dementia, you need to
start taking care of your brain in your 30s and 40s - or even earlier.

"More and more research is suggesting that lifestyle is very important
to your brain's health," says Dr. Paul Nussbaum, a neuropsychologist
and an adjunct associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh
School of Medicine. "If you want to live a long, healthy life, then many
of us need to start as early as we can."

So what can you do to beef up your brain - and possibly ward off
dementia? Nussbaum, who recently gave a speech on the topic for the
Winter Park (Fla.) Health Foundation, offers 20 tips that may help.

1. Join clubs or organizations that need volunteers. If you start
volunteering now, you won't feel lost and unneeded after you retire.

2. Develop a hobby or two. Hobbies help you develop a robust brain
because you're trying something new and complex.

3. Practice writing with your nondominant hand several minutes every
day. This will exercise the opposite side of your brain and fire up
those neurons.

4. Take dance lessons. In a study of nearly 500 people, dancing was
the only regular physical activity associated with a significant decrease
in the incidence of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. The people
who danced three or four times a week showed 76 percent less
incidence of dementia than those who danced only once a week or not at all.

5. Need a hobby? Start gardening. Researchers in New Zealand found
that, of 1,000 people, those who gardened regularly were less likely to
suffer from dementia. Not only does gardening reduce stress, but
gardeners use their brains to plan gardens; they use visual and spatial
reasoning to lay out a garden.

6. Buy a pedometer and walk 10,000 steps a day. Walking daily can
reduce the risk of dementia because cardiovascular health is important
to maintain blood flow to the brain.

7. Read and write daily. Reading stimulates a wide variety of brain
areas that process and store information. Likewise, writing (not
copying) stimulates many areas of the brain as well.

8. Start knitting. Using both hands works both sides of your brain. And
it's a stress reducer..

9. Learn a new language. Whether it's a foreign language or sign
language, you are working your brain by making it go back and forth
between one language and the other. A researcher in England found
that being bilingual seemed to delay symptoms of Alzheimer's disease
for four years. (And some research suggests that the earlier a child
learns sign language, the higher his IQ - and people with high IQs are
less likely to have dementia. So start them early.)

10. Play board games such as Scrabble and Monopoly. Not only are
you taxing your brain, you're socializing too. (Playing solo games,
such as solitaire or online computer brain games can be helpful, but
Nussbaum prefers games that encourage you to socialize too.)

11. Take classes throughout your lifetime. Learning produces structural
and chemical changes in the brain, and education appears to help
people live longer. Brain researchers have found that people with
advanced degrees live longer - and if they do have Alzheimer's, it often
becomes apparent only in the very later stages of the disease.

12. Listen to classical music. A growing volume of research suggests
that music may hard wire the brain, building links between the two
hemispheres. Any kind of music may work, but there's some research
that shows positive effects for classical music, though researchers
don't understand why.

13.. Learn a musical instrument. It may be harder than it was when
you were a kid, but you'll be developing a dormant part of your brain.

14. Travel. When you travel (whether it's to a distant vacation spot or
on a different route across town), you're forcing your brain to navigate
a new and complex environment. A study of London taxi drivers found
experienced drivers had larger brains because they have to store lots
of information about locations and how to navigate there.

15. Pray. Daily prayer appears to help your immune system. And
people who attend a formal worship service regularly live longer
and report happier, healthier lives.

16. Learn to meditate. It's important for your brain that you learn to
shut out the stresses of everyday life.

17. Get enough sleep. Studies have shown a link between interrupted
sleep and dementia.

18. Eat more foods containing omega-3 fatty acids: Salmon, sardines,
tuna, ocean trout, mackerel or herring, plus walnuts (which are higher
in omega 3s than salmon) and flaxseed. Flaxseed oil, cod liver oil and
walnut oil are good sources too..

19. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Antioxidants in fruits and
vegetables mop up some of the damage caused by free radicals, one
of the leading killers of brain cells.

20. Eat at least one meal a day with family and friends. You'll slow
down, socialize, and research shows you'll eat healthier food than if
you ate alone or on the go.