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With the ever changing environment of modern society, education plays a vital role in ensuring a better living, improving one’s status and expanding opportunities. Evidently, every parent wants what

is best for their children, which is why providing them with a top-notch education is crucial. When the word education comes to mind, so does the debate over private or public schools. Most parents face the dilemma of whether the right decision was made when enrolling their child.

Nowadays, international schools are a much sought after option due to a shift in public preference. International schools are no longer considered a luxury but instead a necessity when it comes to choosing the right education for children.

Page 3 Page 4 Page 5

Making the Right

By Yvette Yeow

Tenby International School

Continued on page 2

Asian Metropolitan International School

Tenby International School

Page 9

indiscretion in Kiwiland

How well do you know your neighbour?

Ramadan Bazaars Round-up

First Time in Perak– The Big Bad Wolf Book sale

Upcoming EventsRaya Raya di ipoh Flea Market

Choice in Education

2 Your Voice In The CommunityIPOH ECHOJuly 16-31, 2014

International schools in Ipoh offer a likeable platform for students to develop as they focus on numerous aspects of development such as sports, academic and artistic development.Though the education syllabus of international schools may be similar as most of

them offer the British Cambridge IGCSE, yet it differs in terms of educating methodology, in-house facilities and, of course, a conducive school environment, something which is grossly absent in national schools (sekolah kebangsaan).

Tenby International SchoolsTenby International Schools was founded in 1960 with its first principal, Dorothy Nelson-Doig at the helm. In 2001, the school was taken over by Dato’ Lim Kheng Kay who saw education as a means to unite people such that the school’s vision was, “A United World at Peace – Through Education”. Through his efforts, Lim saved Tenby when it was on the verge of collapsing. The recently-opened Tenby International Schools at Meru Raya, Ipoh has over 1200 students while the four other branches in Shah Alam, Johor Bahru, Miri

and Penang are being well filled with a total of 4300 students in all.

Tenby offers a unique model of education with two types of schools, Tenby International School and Sekolah Tenby. Tenby International School follows the British Cambridge IGCSE syllabus, whereas Sekolah Tenby offers the Malaysian National Curriculum,

with emphasis on English across all aspect of its syllabus.Tenby encourages shared teaching methods between both schools. They believe that

integration, through education and curricular activities, could encourage unity among students, regardless of their ethnicity. The school also works towards providing a balanced education by motivating students to not only do well in academic studies but in sports and performing arts, as well. Students are inspired to develop their talents because each and every one of them is different.

The schools offers state-of-the-art facilities which include a 25-metre swimming pool, a football field, a multi-purpose sports hall, an auditorium, music and drama rooms, cutting-edge science and computer laboratories, a well-equipped university-style library and lively classrooms with internet connection and interactive whiteboards.

Tenby also award scholarships to outstanding students who excel in academic, performing arts or sports, such as the Siwu and the Yayasan Dayadiri scholarships. Tenby gives personal attention to its students so they will be encouraged to perform well.

Fairview International School Fairview International School has a rich history of 35 operating years in Malaysia. Having branches in three states with an enrolment of over 3000 students, Fairview is one of Malaysia’s leading international schools for the last ten years with excellent Cambridge O-level results and an outstanding International Baccalaureate (IB) world school. With a vision of improving what they had to offer, Fairview introduced the IB in 2007. The IB programme was first established in Geneva, Switzerland, with the aim of developing inquiring, knowledgeable, caring young people and to encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners.

Fairview offers both IB and Cambridge IGCSE education to students including O levels, IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and IB Diploma Programmes (IBDP). The school has a unique curriculum for students from ages 3 to 19, and is the only authorised group of IB World School in Malaysia to offer a continuum of the 3 IB programmes.

The school also provides quality teaching through certified IB Workshop Teachers Trainers and members of IB School Authorisation team for both PYP and MYP. Furthermore, it also organises expeditions for MYP students to better increase their exposure and to help them incorporate what they have learnt.

Fairview’s Ipoh campus will officially begin its operation in August. The campus, located near Taman Botani, will be modelled after the other 4 IB schools and is set to provide quality education and to nurture independent active learners. The campus includes facilities for a 21st century school such as air-conditioned classrooms, sports field, multi-purpose hall, library, IT resource centre and more. Other services also encompass English language support, counselling services and tutorial classes for students.

Westlake International SchoolWestlake International School is a newly-established international school based on Tan Sri Dato’ Hew See Tong’s vision of providing quality and affordable education. Located in Kampar, the school began its operations in January 2013 with just over 100 students. Today, its student population has grown to over 260 students.

At Westlake, they offer the British Cambridge Curriculum from Years 1 to 11, focusing on building strong academic foundations and instilling desirable values in their students. This is achieved through its school philosophy which comprises three pillars: educational philosophy, character building and community partnership. The school aspires that each student graduates as a powerful learner with a wholesome character.

Westlake also nurtures its students to be all-rounders by creating different facilities for well-rounded development, such as the fine arts centre with rooms equipped for dancing, music and arts, ICT-enhanced teaching spaces, science laboratories and facilities for sports.

Another unique feature of the school is its boarding facilities for both students and families. Students aged 12 and above may opt to stay at the boarding houses,

a comfortable place to study and a safe environment to grow up in, under the watchful eyes of their parents. Families with younger children may opt for the family apartments and stay within the school too.

Westlake International School aims to provide quality education and a comfortable environment for students to learn and grow. With the peaceful and serene town of Kampar as its backdrop, students will better develop and learn, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Asia Metropolitan International School The Asia Metropolitan International School (AMETIS) was established in 2013 with its philosophy of “Educating Forward”. The school provides a holistic environment for learning and emphasises the mastering of the English language, as well as other foreign languages such as Mandarin and French. AMETIS believes that this will help build students’ confidence and prepare them to succeed in the global world.

AMETIS offers a quality education based on the Cambridge International programmes of study and the National Curriculum for England. All members of the teaching staff are fully qualified and experienced and are confident in delivering and supporting the international school curriculum.

The school aims to nurture learners who are confident, re-sponsible, reflective, innova-tive and engaged. AMETIS encourages smart learning in school where students are re-quired to carry a SNote 10.1 with them during classes and school activities.

As a means to prepare learners for the future, AMETIS strives to promote digital learning, through curriculum activities that are designed to include and encourage all aspects of technology. By incorporating technology into daily learning experiences, learners are encouraged not to be dependent on textbooks or engage in ‘mindless’ tasks that do not develop creativity or critical exploration.

The school is also equipped with facilities such as fully air-conditioned classrooms and activity rooms, science laboratories, a design and technology workshop and art room, a resource centre, performing arts auditoriums and basketball courts. It also provides a daily after-school pastoral-care service whereby teachers monitor and mentor students to enhance their learning capacity after a typical school day. AMETIS believes that by delivering a relevant and current curriculum, incorporating technology in and out of the classroom, and encouraging positive values, it will create firm foundations for success in all aspects of the children’s lives.

ConclusionInternational schools in Ipoh all serve the very same purpose; to ensure students are equipped with the best in terms of education and facilities. The passion to bring quality education to each single child is, undoubtedly, every school’s aim. Regardless of the choices made, parents can rest assured that their children are left in good hands.

Fairview International School

Westlake’s auditorium

Tenby’s tennis court

Tenby International Schools16 Persiaran Meru UtamaBandar Meru Raya30020 IpohTel: +605 525 2628Fax: +605 525 2881GPS: N 4° 40.855’ E 101° 4.466’

Westlake International SchoolLot 18662, Jalan Universiti Taman Bandar Barat 31900 KamparTel: +605 467 2222GPS: N4° 40.855’ E 101° 4.66’

Fairview International SchoolsEnrolment Office32B, Jalan Lapangan SuriaMedan Lapangan Suria31350 IpohTel: +605 313 6888/6887

Asian Metropolitan International SchoolLebuh Perusahaan Keledang 9Kawasan Perindustrian IGB30010 MenglembuTel: +605 290 5888/+6019 388 3349GPS: N4° 39 23.407’ E101° 715.394’

Asia Metropolitan International School

Westlake International School

International Schools focus on developing well-rounded young adults

Your Voice In The Community July 16-31, 2014IPOH ECHO 3

By Fathol Zaman BukhariFrom the Editor’s Desk

For more information, call Gill eye specialist Centre at Hospital Fatimah 05 545 5582 or email gilleyecentre@dr.com.

EYE HEALTH STRESS RELATED EYE PROBLEMS

Dr. S.S. GillResident Consultant

Ophthalmologist, Hospital Fatimah

IPOHechoecho

The continuing saga of a Malaysian military attaché staff in Wellington, New Zealand is a hotly debated issue that is beginning to prick our conscience.

The matter would not have elicited such negativity had it been appropriately handled by both the New Zealand and Malaysian authorities.

Before we delve into the subject matter, permit me to correct some misconceptions and misinformation regarding the protagonist, Muhammad Rizalman Ismail. This is largely due to inaccurate reporting in the media.

Rizalman is a non-commissioned officer (NCO) with the rank of a Warrant Officer Class Two or WO 2, in short. Not a second warrant officer, as is widely reported in the news media. There are two categories of warrant officers – WO 1 and WO 2. These are the highest achievable ranks for enlisted men in the armed forces – army, navy and air force. Below them are the lance corporals, corporals, sergeants and staff sergeants.

Enlisted men join the army after undergoing training at the Recruit Training Centre in Port Dickson. The navy and air force have their own training centres. They are promoted as they get along in the service from private to lance corporal and henceforth. Promotion is based on them attending and passing career courses at training establishments in the country. Some are sent overseas if courses are not available locally.

Officers, incidentally, undergo a four-year course at the Royal Military Academy in Sungei Besi and are commissioned with a basic bachelor degree. In the good old days you either do a two-year or a six–month course at the military college, contingent upon one being a regular or a short-service commissioned officer. I did a two-year course pledging my allegiance to King and Country on May 8, 1968, the 23rd Anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day that heralded the end of the Second World War.

Rizalman is not a military attaché and neither is he a diplomat. He is simply a staff of the military attaché, someone who is at the beck and call of the colonel (rank of military attaché) and does his bidding like all good soldiers do.

The criteria for selection for an overseas posting are not as stringent as they were before. In those days, one’s fluency in the English language was a must. Today with many having a poor command of English, officers included, a grasp of the language is

INDISCRETION IN KIWILANDRizalman is not a military attaché and neither is he a diplomat. He is simply a staff of the military attaché, someone who does the colonel’s bidding like all good soldiers do...

considered sufficient. That is how low we have come over the decades.

Those picked for an overseas posting undergo a short orientation course in Port Dickson or at Wisma Putra (Foreign Ministry). And the lessons, mind you, include dining etiquette, conversational skills, social mannerism and taboos.

Preference normally goes to NCOs from the Intelligence Corps since the job of service attachés, the world over, is mainly to snoop on the military of the host country. I did my share of discreet snooping when attending courses and field exercises in Indonesia, Australia and the United States of America.

When Rizalman’s impropriety hit the headlines on Monday, June 30 after New Zealand Prime Minister John Kay broke his silence on the alleged sexual assault, Rizalman and his family were already in Kuala Lumpur.

Rizalman was arrested by the Kiwi police on Friday, May 9 and was produced at a Wellington court on Saturday, May 10. Meetings between the Malaysian High Commission, the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Kiwi police followed suit. Decision to revoke Rizalman’s diplomatic immunity so he could be tried was, however, withheld. There seemed to be a misunderstanding between the officials of both countries regarding the word “waiver”, so said the report.

The faux paus by Foreign Minister Anifah Aman, whether deliberate or otherwise, is uncalled for, as the country’s reputation is at stake. With the MH 370 debacle looming ominously in the background, a diplomatic gaffe of this nature is definitely in poor taste.

Inaction by the authorities is considered by many as an attempt at covering up. I was appalled when the Ministry of Defence announced that Rizalman would be court-martialled instead. How could he be tried in a military court when the offence was committed abroad with the principal witness a native of New Zealand? It certainly does not make sense. On second thought, does anything in the country make sense anymore?

Rizalman’s extradition to New Zealand, meanwhile, has been put on hold as the military authorities are not satisfied with his mental well-being. Frankly speaking, does an alleged felon require that much assurance?

by Peter LeeIn The Name Of My Father’s EstateEpisode 31

Peter Lee is an Associate Estate Planning Practitioner (Wills & Trust) with Rockwills International Group. He is also an Islamic Estate Planner providing Wills & Trust services for Muslims. He can be reached at: 012‑5078825/ 05‑2554853 or excelsecms@gmail.com. Website: http://www.wills-trust.com.my. His Book “To Delay is Human but to Will is Divine” (96 pages, RM28) is available at his office: 108 (2nd Floor), Jalan Raja Ekram, 30450 Ipoh; Rashi Mini Market (019-510 6284), 37 Jalan Perajurit, Ipoh Garden East; Ipoh Echo and at all major bookstores.

Since Michelle Lee (Lee Sr’s daughter) failed to transfer 70% of her father’s shares in three of the family companies to her mother Mrs Patricia Lee, she tried

to persuade her brother, John Lee (Lee Sr’s son) to speak to Connie (Lee Sr’s 2nd wife) in settling these share distribution through cash. However, John was reluctant to do so because he felt that it would be very difficult to talk to Connie especially after the incident where Michelle assaulted Connie. But he had no choice but to undertake these responsibilities after their mother, Mrs Patricia Lee begged him to do it for the sake of the family. John wasted no time and contacted Connie to meet up with her. She immediately said “John, what is there to talk about after your dear sister, Michelle resorted to violence with me? Furthermore, I am considering making a police report and a legal suit against her for her assault on me pending my lawyer’s advice.” John responded by saying, “Look! I am really sorry about this as I didn’t expect her to react that way. She too regretted her actions. Connie, I know how you feel now but all I want you to know is both sides of our family will not be able to resolve the distribution of my father’s estate even if you decide to make that police report and take a legal suit against Michelle.”

“As it is, I am now caught in the crossfire between you and my sister. So, it’s very difficult to carry on this way especially when you and I together with Michelle are the Administrators of father’s estate.” Connie then said, “It’s not only the crossfire between me and Michelle but also your mother, whom I have a score to settle with on the withdrawal of $3 million from your father’s joint bank account with her in Singapore. John replied and said, “That is why we need to meet to talk about all this and resolve our problems instead of dragging on the matter with deep animosity against each other. The other thing is our meeting this time will be between you and me only. Can you consider my request and if you are unhappy after our meeting, then you can walk away and proceed in whatever way you think is best for your family. So, what have you got to lose?”

After a few seconds of thought, Connie then asked, “Ok! When and where do we meet?” John said, “Is it okay if we meet over lunch tomorrow in Fine Dining Cafe located next to my office which is quite conducive for our meeting.” In response, Connie said, “Ok! I will meet you tomorrow and I want you to bring me some answers over my entitlement on the $3 million which your mother withdrew from your father’s joint bank account at ZNA bank in Singapore. This to me is the key to our discussion. Frankly, I want my entitlement as soon as possible since your mother has withdrawn the money.” John then said, “That, I need to talk to my mother.” Connie then said, “Well! I will leave it to you but tell her it’s either she release the money to me or our distribution will remain status quo especially with the 70% shares held by your father in three of your family companies.”

in this day and age, almost no one is free from stress as we rush about the day meeting demands, targets and deadlines. indeed, for many of us stress is just part of life. Having some stress is good because

it can motivate people to function effectively at their best. However, as with most things too much of stress may result in or worsen health problems like depression, agitation, eating and sleeping disorders, heart disease, obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, abdominal problems including eye problems. eye problems occur when one is living with consistently high levels of stress. One such eye condition that may result as a result of stress is called Central Serous Retinopathy. CENTRAL SEROUS RETINOPATHYCentral Serous Retinopathy (CsR) is a condition when there is a collection of fluid in the central part of the back of the eye called the macula. This fluid that causes swelling of the back of the eye (macula) affects the vision.SYMPTOMSA person who suffers from CsR may have several different types of visual disturbances as follows:

Central blurring vision or dull vision in the centre of the visual field. ●seeing wavy or distorted lines – where straight lines may appear crooked. ●seeing images bigger or smaller than they actually are. ●Colours may appear “washed-out” or ●dull.

TESTS DONEThe eye care professional will check your visual acuity and see how much it has been affected. in most cases, the vision is not so severely affected but the central vision clarity loss and distorted images seen can be distressing to the already stressed out patient.

A dilated pupil examination will show the swelling in the back part of the eye (see adjacent picture). An OCT scan done can very quickly show the swollen macula (central part of the back of the eye). PROGNOSISin most cases, CsR will generally clear in a few weeks to month and the patient recovers fully without any permanent loss of vision. in some patients there may be residual loss of contrast sensitivity making the night vision somewhat affected. in rare instances however, the condition may be prolonged up to even 1 year or the patient may suffer repeated episodes of swelling of the macula. such repeated episodes almost always leaves some permanent loss of vision or contrast sensitivity.TREATMENTThe patients are usually advised to de-stress although this may be difficult for many. Learning how to set aside time to relax, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet and getting sufficient rest will help. When the CSR is prolonged showing no sign of resolution, argon laser photocoagulation treatment may be given to reduce the fluid leakage or swelling of the macula (back of the eye).TAKE HOME POINTSLearning how to handle the stresses of life can be more important than most of us would think. if you are undergoing undue stress, learn to recognise it and take measures to de-stress. Remember, apart from stress causing CsR in the eye, stress can have harmful effects on a person’s general health. Always seek professional help if you are unable to de-stress effectively.

Ipoh Echo’s EYE HEALTH series continues with Consultant Eye Surgeon Dr S.S. GILL talking to us about stress-related eye problems.

To be continued…

4 Your Voice In The CommunityIPOH ECHOJuly 16-31, 2014

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by Mariam Mokhtar

T H I N K I N GA L L O W E D

IPOHechoecho

Do you get on with your neighbour and regularly exchange pleasantries? Do you have one of those neighbours, whose curtains keep twitching,

indicating that they are keeping tabs on you?Are you on good terms, and keep an eye on one

another’s homes when one of you goes away? Are you in a neighbourhood, where people haven’t got a clue who lives around them?

Recently, Malaysians were horrified to read about the discovery of two disabled and mentally challenged people being confined to their rooms. Only the naïve will think these are isolated cases. They are not. These cases are probably the tip of an iceberg.

Perak will not be spared either. In some dark corner, a disabled person is probably in a state of neglect, awaiting discovery or permanent release from their suffering. We may lead modern lives, but our attitudes towards the disabled and mentally ill, are still steeped in the past. Once, families with a disabled member, felt ashamed and would hide the disabled person in a back room.

If one needs proof that we mistreat the disabled, one need only observe the behaviour of the general public towards wheelchair users. Rude people stare at the disabled, instead of helping them.

Last month, during a raid to weed out illegal immigrants, immigration officers stumbled upon a 15-year-old teenager who had been locked away in the storeroom of a flat, in Nilai, Negri Sembilan. He has cerebral palsy, was malnourished, emaciated, filthy and uncared for.

News of this discovery was still sending shockwaves among Malaysians, when a few hundred miles away, in Kampung Pasir, Pekan Hulu, in Tumpat, Kelantan, welfare workers, released a 44-year-old woman with mental health problems, from a locked room.

The teenager is Muhammad Firdaus Dullah. He had lived in the storeroom for at least two years. In the latter case, the woman, Nasitah Yahaya, had been locked up in a tiny, darkened room, for the past decade.

The main carer for the teenager, was his mother, a Sabahan, who had recently miscarried, whose first husband had died and whose second husband had left her. As a single mother, without support from her own family, she was forced to hold-down two menial jobs, which took her away from her sons (Firdaus has a half-brother) for most of the day. Try to imagine how you would cope in her circumstances.

The death of Nasitah’s parents shifted the burden of care, to her siblings. Initially, they took turns, shunting her from house to house, in three different towns in Kelantan, Penang and Kuala Lumpur. Eventually they lumbered her onto a step-brother. As he could not manage, he locked her up in a tiny room, under his house.

The public is cruel to criticise both Firdaus’ mother and Nasitah’s step-brother, without acknowledging their circumstances. Not everyone is educated or knowledgeable or knows where to seek assistance. The burden of looking after the disabled, especially if only one person is lumbered with the responsibility, saps one’s energy. Without support from family, they will fail.

If anecdotal evidence is to be believed, getting aid from the government is difficult. There is a lot of form filling, and stringent criteria must be met. What happens if the recipient, or his guardian, cannot read or write? What if the guardian or parent cannot take time off from work, to enable him to register for help? What if the guardian is unable to find someone to take care of the disabled person, whilst he visits the social welfare department?

One carer said, “I was confused by all the form filling, and gave up halfway.” Another said that despite living in a dilapidated shack, the authorities still viewed his hovel, as a dwelling, and he found himself ineligible for aid. One parent of a disabled child said that they had a motorcycle (kapchai), but ownership of the vehicle meant that they were not poverty stricken and aid was refused.

Both Firdaus’ and Nasitah’s guardians expressed relief that the ordeal of looking after their disabled family members was finally over. Firdaus’ mother admitted that she “did not understand the process of getting help”. Similarly, whilst Nasitah’s step-brother acknowledged the public’s anger, he said, “They (his siblings) left her under my care but...I didn’t know how to get help from the Welfare Department.”

These two carers have said that the process of registration and receiving aid, is not well-publicised. This is a clue that the system could be improved and made more accessible.

That is not the end of the story. In Firdaus’ case, the neighbour’s children claimed that over the past two years, Firdaus’ mother had prevented them from playing with him. One child admitted he heard wailing, from the flat.

Why did the crying not alert Firdaus’ young friends, or

their parents, to make enquiries about Firdaus? Similarly, Nasitah must have had neighbours who could have asked after her.

The non-prying nature of these communities is uncharacteristic of most kampong communities. Why did no one, neighbour, or relative, alert the authorities to help the disabled person? Were they afraid that reporting to the authorities would be seen as a betrayal?

Firdaus’ and Nasitah’s suffering could have been shortened, medical help given, and welfare aid extended, if only their neighbours had not been so apathetic.

How well do you know your neighbour?

Digestive HealthDr Saravana.KConsultant Physician, Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist

For more information call Saravana.K Gastroenterologist and Liver Specialist Clinic at Hospital Fatimah (05 548 7181) or email gastrosara@gmail.com.

A colonoscopy is an exam used to detect abnormalities in the large intestine and rectum. Polyps and tissue samples can be removed through the scope during a colonoscopy. Your doctor may

recommend a colonoscopy to:Investigate intestinal signs and symptoms to ● explore possible causes of abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic constipation and chronic diarrhoea.Screen for colon cancer. ● if you're age 50 or older and at average risk of colon cancer, a colonoscopy is recommended every 5 years. The risk of developing colon cancer is reduced by 90% after a single screening colonoscopy done at age 50.Look for polyps. This is done to reduce your risk of colon cancer. ● Polyps removed during colonoscopy are sent for analysis to determine their nature.

A colonoscopy poses few risks and after discussing the risks of colonoscopy with you, your doctor will ask you to sign a consent form authorizing the procedure.How do you prepare?Before a colonoscopy, you'll need to empty your colon. Any residue in your colon may obscure the view of your colon and rectum during the exam.

To empty your colon, your doctor may ask you to:Follow a special diet the day before the exam ● . Typically, you won't be able to eat solid food the day before the exam. Drinks may be limited to clear liquids. Avoid red liquids, which can be confused with blood. You may not be able to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the exam.You will be instructed to take ● laxatives in fluid form the night before your colonoscopy.You may need to ● use an enema – either the night or a few hours before the exam – to empty your colon.Adjust your medications ● . inform your doctor of your medications at least a week before the exam.

if you take aspirin or medications that thin the blood, such as warfarin, Pradaxa, Xarelto or Clopidogrel you may need to adjust your dosages or stop taking the medications temporarily.What you can expectDuring a colonoscopy, you'll wear a gown. sedation is combined with an intravenous pain medication to minimise any discomfort.

You'll begin the exam lying on your side on the exam table, usually with your knees drawn toward your chest. The doctor will insert a colonoscope into your rectum. The scope contains a light and a tube that allows the doctor to pump air into your colon. The air inflates the colon, which provides a better view of the lining of the colon. When the scope is moved or air is introduced, you may feel abdominal cramping or the urge to have a bowel movement.

The colonoscope also contains a tiny video camera at its tip. The camera sends images to an external monitor so the doctor can study the inside of your colon. The doctor can also insert instruments through the channel to take tissue samples or remove polyps. A colonoscopy typically takes about 20 minutes to an hour.After the examAfter the exam, it takes about an hour to begin to recover from the sedative. You may feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours after the exam, as you clear the air from your colon.

Your doctor will review the results of the colonoscopy and then share the results with you.

COLON CANCER PREVENTION: COLONOSCOPY

Your Voice In The Community July 16-31, 2014IPOH ECHO 5

MUSINGSON FOOD Gathers Her Foodie Troop for Ramadan PatrolIts that time of the year again when puasa month has Muslims fasting and focusing on

religious matters and non-Muslims are packing on the pounds as they eagerly look forward to scouring the many Pasar Ramadan or Bazaars for delicious treats that are

often not commonly available during the rest of the year.

So I sent out the troops at the Ipoh Echo office and urged them to suss out their favourite stalls and best eats from the various Ramadan Bazaars and this column today is a compilation of their picks and their comments.

Rosli Mansor at Medan GopengKuih Akok Panas is a traditional kuih originating from the Malays of Pantai Timur. The stall that sells this kuih is always crowded with people especially from 5pm until 7pm in the evening. Kuih Akok is made of flour and looks like a pancake. It is grilled in a specially-made brass mold for about 3 minutes. Kuih Akok has a sweet and rich taste and only 1000 pieces are sold out each day so come early – RM0.50 per piece.

S.H. Ong at Angsana Mall and StadiumEvery year my wife and I look forward to the puasa month, because of the mouth-watering spread of food and kuih muih available which we do not get on a daily basis. This is also the time of year when my wife goes on ‘strike’, meaning she will not cook for the entire period. Our two favourite locations are the Perak Stadium which has about 160 stalls and the one next to the Angsana Mall in Greentown, with 130 stalls. My personal favourites are: BBQ skewered chicken in satay sauce @ RM4/stick; ikan bakar cincaru @ RM6-8/pc (depending on size); kebab ayam/daging @ RM3/pc and various kuih muih @ RM2 for 5 pieces.

Yng Chin Yean at Angsana MallStall 31: Nasi Ayam Panggang – whole chicken RM17; half chicken RM9; Nasi Ayam RM4.50. 40 to 50 chickens are sold per day. Yummy & juicy.

Yvette at Ipoh Jaya:For a foodie like me, Ramadan is a month I look forward to indulging in my favourite passion – eating! Ipoh Jaya’s Pasar Ramadan may not be as large or as famous as the one in Medan Gopeng or Bercham, but it certainly provides a handful of delicacies to die for!

One of my must haves is the Lekor, a finger food of fish cakes shaped into long odd sizes and then deep fried – RM1 per pack of 5 pieces. Another favourite is the Roti John, a type of sandwich made with two long pieces of bread covered in an egg mixture and then fried on a pan to perfection. There are 2 choices to choose from, either stuffed with chicken or beef. It costs about RM3 for one and is very filling.

The IE group at Symphony Suites Ramadan Buffet: RM50 nettRosli – Mee Bandung; SeeFoon and Veronica – Ulam with budu (fish sauce fermentation), sambal belacan and cincalok; Deanna – Daging Rendang Tok; Yvette – Ikan Keli Bakar; and Luqman – Ayam Percik.

Georgie Hendricks at Medan TasekMurtabak Damanhuri – in business at the Ramadan stalls for 24 years. Price of murtabak in 1990 was RM1.50 – now selling at RM5 with brisk business daily Packet nasi lemak at RM1.30 – very good but little omelette piece and sambal ikan bilis. Good sambal.

Puan Norreha rice stall (variety) – In business at the Ramadan stalls for 15 years. Tomato rainbow rice is very nice at RM1.50 for plain rice or with chicken at RM3.50. Also sells laksa – good at RM3 and nasi lemak at RM2.50. She has chicken pieces that is covered in what I would call fluff and it is good.

Nasi Bryani Tayub – Bryani comes with acar and he also sells beef rendang and mutton with thick gravy. Price per container with 1 piece of chicken at RM6. Sells out by 6.30pm.

Deanna Lim and Yvette at ibis Styles Ipoh Ramadan Buffet: RM45++Chicken Rendang and Milk Pudding (Deana); Tomato Rice and Lala Masak Lemak (Yvette)

SeeFoon and Veronica at SilibinMurtabak Daging/Ayam – RM3.50; Roti Jala with curry, the roti jala beautifully lacy and meltingly soft but the curry lacked oomph – RM2; Rempah Udang – buy from the stall with the longer and fatter portions; Rendang Tok 100gms with 5 pcs of ketupat @ RM5 and Serunding both meat and chicken @ RM7 with 5 pcs ketupat.

Susan Ho at the StadiumPuasa season is a time I look forward to. The moment the bazaars start everywhere, I would ask my mother to accompany me to search for some good food which I only eat once a year.

There’s the Ayam Percik, which costs RM5 each and tastes yummy. The Lamb Kebab is a must as the combination of flavours make it perfect, RM5. What surprised me most was this year’s new addition, the Durian Crepe. Encased within a mock durian skin, is an oozy cream with pieces of durian. It is creamy, light to eat for a dessert and not too sweet – RM10 for 6 pcs.

Luqman at Bercham JayaHot ‘Otak-Otak’. ‘Otak-otak’ is an oblong-like fish snack wrapped in nipah leaves that has its origins from Johor. It is made of minced fish meat mixed with spices, chili and pepper. The otak-otak sold at the Ramadan bazaar in Bercham is considered the best in town. It costs RM0.70 a piece. The stall makes about 500 pieces a day so come early to avoid disappointment.

Kak Yuniza’s Snow Cheese Cake is an appetizing dessert that is rich in cheese and is pleasantly sweet. As the name suggests, the cake is made from cheese with a liberal dose of sugar. Kak Yuniza’s Snow Cheese Cake is sold at the Bercham Ramadan bazaar at Stall No.6. The cheese cake is priced at RM5 a piece.

Nasi Ambeng Miraqil is another of my favourites. The cuisine was originally a Javanese traditional dish that was later brought in to Malaysia during the 1800s through trading. What’s unique about this dish is that it is also eaten together with fried noodles, coconut sambal, ayam masak kicap or with fried chicken. It can be found at stall number 13 and costs RM6 per box.

Kuih Akok Nasi Ambeng Miraqil

Durian crepe

Azura Ayam Percik kuih-stall #82Dried fruits

Kebabs

Roti JohnLekor

Otak‑Otak Snow Cheese Cake

Kerabu daun pucuk ubi

Murtabak daging Murtabak

Ayam Percik Tofu

SeeFoon

Roti Jala

Pulut Panggang

6 Your Voice In The CommunityIPOH ECHOJuly 16-31, 2014

LETTERS We reprint some of our reader’s comments from our online paper. Go to http: //www.ipohecho.com.my/ to read more. The views expressed in these letters are not necessarily shared by the Editorial Board. We reserve the right to refuse or modify the letters we publish.

Last year, the Deputy Health Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Hilmi Yahya had stated that one per cent of our population suffer from mental problems, with

another 20 per cent having mental health problems like depression, stress and anxiety.

Since then, we have been observing that mental health problems among school students are a matter of serious concern and need to be addressed. Beginning of this year, a Form One student from Bandar Rinching took his own life by drinking pesticide at his home, after he was bullied by his peers. Last month, a video depicting a schoolgirl being brutally beaten by a group of schoolmates went viral. There are several such viral

Bullying

The National Registration Department sent their staff to the Perak Society for the Promotion of Mental Health's day-care centre in Tanjung Rambutan

recently to help the residents renew their identity cards. The department’s effort was laudable as it enabled the residents to acquire the cards at the centre rather than travel to the department to get them.

Another government agency that deserves such

Curing by Caring

Education

Arts & Culture

videos being posted on Youtube depicting a horrific scenario among our school students.

School bullying is an increasing phenomenon. It is defined as "repeated", negative or mild mental disorder behaviours by one or more students directed against a student who has difficulty defending himself.

Thus, violence affects student's physical and mental health, impairs their ability to learn and socialise, and undermines their development as functional adults and good parents later in life. In some cases, violence against students can lead to death.

Based on our survey, we found out that mental disorders among students are prevalent and these

As strokes of drumbeats descended on stage, visitors watched in amazement the performance by UTAR Festive Seasons Dance Troupe during the launching ceremony of the 10th Festival of the Mind at Dewan Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik,

UTAR Perak Campus recently.Tun Ling proceeded to talk about the importance of memory in life. “If you want

to remember more, pictorialise as much as you can to get a clearer picture. It will automatically enhance your memory. Picture the subject, give colour to it and you will remember better,” informed Tun Ling.

“The calculator is ready,” hyped West Wong Woon Chieng, a guest performer and star attraction of the day’s event. After multiplying random numbers suggested by volunteers, the Malaysia Human Calculator continued to sweep audience with his lightning speed calculations and prodigious mental arithmetic skills. A showcase on Human Calendar highlighted his ingenious ability to name the day of an impromptu date, be it in the past or in the future. His answer to each equation has been precise and emphatic, regardless of how complicated it is for humans minds to decipher and under normal circumstances, he even outclassed the processing speed of a digital calculator. Wong, also a UTAR alumnus, is, to date, Malaysia’s sole medalist from the prestigious Mental Calculation Olympic or Memoriad. He garnered a bronze medal in the Flash Anzan category during the 2012 Memoriad in Antalya, Turkey.

Wong raised eyebrows further by showcasing the abilities of his protégé from Powerhouse Academy, a precociously talented six-year-old named Djarkariel Antonius Gomez who is also affectionately known as ‘Lapu’ to his loved ones. Despite his tender age, Lapu has demonstrated remarkable calculation and memorising skills that rival most thinking adults.

Tenth Festival of the Mind in Perak

The annual Festival of the Mind is a brainchild of MMLM and has attracted favourable response from all segments of society, from young school-going children to working adults and retirees since its inaugural launch in 2007. It aims to imprint the importance of mental literacy among the general public and to create greater awareness about the human mind and ways of tapping into and developing one’s brain power. It also aims to introduce and to promote various techniques and skills pertaining to the improvement of mental literacy, such as memory skills, thinking skills, creativity, and personality profiling.

Old Town White Coffee unveiled a series of murals drawn by renowned artist, Ernest Zacharevic, in conjunction with the Art of OLDTOWN project recently. Ernest had spent one and a half months completing seven murals which drew

much attention from locals and netizens alike. The launch event took place at the OLDTOWN White Coffee, Ipoh Padang

outlet in Old Town, Ipoh, unveiling a custom made map of all seven murals of Art of OLDTOWN. The framed map will be permanently placed at the OLDTOWN White Coffee, Ipoh Padang outlet, and will serve as the starting point for fans to trace all locations of the Art of OLDTOWN murals.

Mr Lee Siew Heng, Group Managing Director of OLDTOWN Berhad said, “This initiative is our way of recognising the heritage of Old Town, Ipoh, the place where OLDTOWN White Coffee originated from, as well as pay homage to original masters of true white coffee. We believe that art is the best way to celebrate Old Town, Ipoh, showcasing its heritage and uniqueness to Malaysians and tourists alike. We are glad to have been able to collaborate with Mr Zacharevic, as he has captured the spirit of the coffee culture here in Old Town, Ipoh in his stunning wall murals.”

Zacharevic had this to say earlier, “The Art of OLDTOWN has been like a dream come true for me. Since the earliest days of my travels in Malaysia, I have always heard stories about the culture and heritage of Ipoh. I am very thankful to OLDTOWN White Coffee for allowing me to leave my mark on this wonderful town and I hope that I have been able to capture the celebration of the coffee culture and heritage of this great place and its people. ”

Ernest’s artwork has been known from around the world. They can be spotted in Johor, Singapore, Penang, Kuala Lumpur and even places abroad. He makes unique art by cutting bicycles, trishaws, chairs, etc into halves and mounts them onto the wall where his artwork is, creating a 3D effect. You will never fail to see tourists and locals walking around town, hunting down every painting there is of his. Some of his artwork

had been damaged in certain towns by vandalism and unappreciative people. Everyone hopes that the Ipoh society will appreciate the artwork that Ernest has done that was inspired by his experiences in Ipoh.

The seven murals are located around Old Town, Ipoh at Jalan Panglima carpark (Hummingbird), Jalan Bandar Timah (Girl), Jalan Bijeh Timah (Evolution), Concubine Lane 3 (Trishaw), as well as 2 along Jalan Tun Sambanthan (Paper Plane and Kopi-O) and Jalan Padang (Old Uncle with Coffee Cup), with meaningful stories behind every artwork.

numbers appears to be increasing in numbers and severity. Mental disorder among students includes autism, conduct disorder, depressive disorder, attention deficit disorder, school refusal and schizophrenia.

Therefore, the Perak Society For The Promotion Of Mental Health suggests that the Health Ministry and the Education Ministry conduct mental health checks on students nationwide on a regular basis.

S. SundralingamVice-PresidentPerak Society For The Promotion Of Mental Health

gratitude is the Registrar of Society. The agency adopted the day-care centre in March 2013 and has since been providing much sought-after assistance.

The day-care centre was established in October 1967 by Tan Sri Dr M. Mahadevan, the former director of Hospital Bahagia Tanjung Rambutan. The centre takes care of mentally-challenged patients and helps them adjust to normal life. It is still short of many amenities to

make it structurally viable.Much needed funds are being sought from concerned

Ipohites to purchase a van to help ferry the residents to the hospital for treatments and check-ups. Other expenses include paying staff salaries.

Those able to help may call the society at 05 533 5457 or 05 533 217 for details.

K. Letchimanan

Gets ‘Artsy’Old Town Ipoh

Susan Ho

Your Voice In The Community July 16-31, 2014IPOH ECHO 7

Dr Vincent Chian is currently the IB Diploma Director of Fairview International School. A former medical doctor working in psychiatry he now spends his time championing emotional and effective development in education.

Advertorial

* Fairview International School currently has 4 IB World Schools across Malaysia; KL, Subang, JB and Penang. Fairview Ipoh will be an international school, with enrollment open for August 2014. For more information, call 05 313 6888 or email: enquiries_ipoh@fairview.edu.my.

Toy cars, plastic rattles and soft squidgy animals. What toy should I gift my son for his birthday? I drift to another question,

“What gift could I give my son for life?”. I am reminded of William Henley’s poem, Invictus; 'It matters not how strait the gate, how charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul'. Grit, Resilience. Yes. That’s the one.

But why Resilience over the ever important values or discipline? Research by Angela Duckworth and Chris Peterson indicates that resilience, the ability to cope with difficulties and failures, when coupled with an average intelligence, is the best predictor of success in areas like academics, workplace performance and even marriage staying power. There is a real need to develop resilience, so that our children may withstand the ever-increasing challenge of uncertainty that exists in their futures.

But how does one develop resilience? There are many ways but let’s examine just two methods. Firstly, we must provide opportunities for meaningful participation in life by allowing our young to plan, evaluate and implement projects of their own choice. Secondly, our young must reorient their concept of the mind, which it is not static and unchanging but able to recover, grow and improve.

At Fairview International School, students are empowered to plan and make important decisions inside and outside the classroom. From what to research and exploring deeper after a basic concept is taught in class to projects by the student council, a body of students empowered to make recommendations that voice the opinions of the student body. A consistent practice of empowerment, coupled with adult supervision, throughout the learner’s educational experience leads to an understanding of choice and responsibility.

Fairview’s students go on academic expeditions and travel to distant locations, like our Grade 10 students who went to Mulu, Sarawak last year. Some students experienced difficulties and almost gave up. However with guidance and support of the teachers they climbed further than they would have. In order to do that, goals were set of reaching certain points before a break, the mantra of one foot in front of the other was repeated, the student was encouraged and the student's mindset changed from 'I can't do' to 'I will put in the effort, and push myself to get as far as I can'.

The strategy used with the students was Carol Dweck's Growth Mindset. This requires them to see setbacks as opportunities to grow and improve themselves, and a belief that intelligence, personality and character can be developed.

To rise from the ashes like a phoenix from the flames, to face defeat with a stony resolve, to walk bravely and down the moral path into an uncertain future. What does resilience mean to you?

This article is the fifth of a 6-part series on education. Final instalment next week!

From one parent to another: Resilience – Going the Distance

Community

The Wellness Camp organised by Astro Uruthunai, Pantai

Hospital Ipoh and Pejabat Kesihatan Cameron Highlands, held at SMK Sultan Ahmad Shah Cameron Highlands recently received overwhelming response with more than 800 participants.

The medical camp was intended to help detect early diseases, prevent the onset of certain diseases and make people aware of health problems.

Free medical consultation by specialist doctors and check-ups were provided for: blood pressure; body fat assessment; dietary counselling; random blood sugar screening; cholesterol test; bone density; chronic venous disease; hearing; eyes; breast examination & subsidised mammogram; pap smear test; dental; and a blood donation drive.

There were also medical exhibition booths for: smoking & alcohol abuse; dengue & malaria; healthy eating; pharmacy (medicines); breastfeeding; breast cancer awareness; first aid & CPR; hand hygiene; and proper teeth brushing.

Other fun activities included: an aerobic exercise, 10,000-steps walk; colouring contest; and healthy cooking competition.

Ms Kelen Leong, Chief Operating Officer from Pantai Hospital Ipoh recorded the hospital’s appreciation to: Mr Raja & Mr Suresh from Biomed Engineering Sdn Bhd who donated spectacles to 50 less fortunate students from nine schools (namely, SJK(T) Ringlet, SJK(C) Cameron, SJK(C) Bertam Valley, SJK(T) Tanah Rata, SK Ringlet, SJK(T) Ladang Shum Yip Leong, SJK (T) Ladang Boh 1, SKT (T) Ladang Blue Valley and SJK (T) Ladang Sungai Palas); Astro Uruthunai, Pejabat Kesihatan Cameron Highlands and all the working committee and volunteers for their good cooperation towards this Wellness Camp.

The Wellness Camp was attended by YB Dato’ Norol Azali Bin Sulaiman, Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Kesihatan, Sumber Manusia & Tugas2 Khas, Dato’ Dr Norhizan Bin Ismail, Pengarah Kesihatan Negeri Pahang, Ms Kelen Leong, Chief Operating Officer of Pantai Hospital Ipoh, Mr Ravikumar Krishnan, Senior Assistant Vice President, Marketing, Content Group from Astro, Dr Rafiq bin Mohd Kasri, Pegawai Kesihatan Daerah Cameron Highlands, Doctors from Pantai Hospital Ipoh : Dr Selvan, Dr Sumithra, Dr Subra, Datin Dr Mimin, Dr Gunalan and Dr Amy Chong.

Overwhelming Response for Wellness Camp

Advertorial

I had a problem containing my anxiety when told to test drive a Peugeot 208 when the best I had ever driven was my trusty Perodua Myvi,

a jalopy by comparison. Arriving at the Jalan Maxwell Peugeot showroom I was ushered into the waiting room, as the test car was still on the road. Was I too early? There was nothing wrong with my timing, for I was at the showroom at the appointed time – 3pm.

TREND-SETTING PEUGEOT 208

Ameira

When the test car finally arrived, with a satisfied-looking young man at the wheel, my heart skipped a beat. The last time I test drove a new car was eons ago. An opportunity to be in the driving seat of a gleaming new car does not come easy to a fresh-out-of-college lass like me.

Incidentally, the Peugeot 208 comes in two variants – the three and five-door models. Both are equipped with a 4-inline cylinder DOHC 16 valve VTi (Dual Variable Valve Timing and Lift) engine. The engine has a displacement of 1598 cc producing 122 ps at 6000 rpm or a maximum torque of 160 Nm at 4250 rpm.

The test car was a blue-coloured three-door type, just the thing for me. It looks grand, both in and out. For a small-car lover like me, the Peugeot 208 is trendy, to say the least. After an hour’s ride around Ipoh, this is my honest appraisal of the French-made car.

It has many interesting features that will assail your senses upon entry. You can opt to ride the 208 in style with mood lightings on, making your journey more dramatic, depending on the time and the occasion. I was amazed with the interior. It is spacious with plenty of room for four adults to sit comfortably.

The interactive colour touch screen, on the dashboard, provides easy access to the car’s sound system which can also be connected to devices such as iPhone, iPod and Android. The audio system has 6 speakers – divine sound to the ears.

The air-conditioning is in dual zones – front and rear, providing cool comfort for both front and back passengers.

The advanced Electric Power Steering System (EPS) makes the steering light and responsive to your touch. With a small steering wheel, I can feel the sportiness of the car and its handling. Plus, I can view the dials over the top, instead of through them.

The turning radius is simply remarkable. It is definitely nippy and light. The suspension is great, not too bumpy and not too soft. At 6.7 litres per 100km, the fuel bill will not burn a hole in the owner’s pocket.

The safety features are decidedly substantial. The car comes with six airbags in the front, the sides and the windows. It has state-of-the-art braking systems and an electronically-linked stabiliser. A steel body frame reinforces its structural strength. The safety configurations have earned the car a 5-star rating by the EURONCAP.

Peugeot 208 is available in 5 colours – white, black, blue, red and silver. The prices are pretty reasonable for a classy four-wheeler with performance. The three-door marque is priced at RM95,888 while the five-door variant goes for RM85,888.My Conclusion of Peugeot 208The car is a looker in every sense of the word, drives well and has plenty of add-ons. It is clearly designed to rival the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo. This high-quality and reasonably-priced car comes with a 5-year warranty. You can’t ask for more.

Thumbs Up

Issue 191 (June 16-30, 2014) of Ipoh Echo highlighted the tripping hazard of protruding bolts along the middle of the pedestrian walkway on Jalan Sultan Idris Shah (Brewster Road) in front of Yayasan Perak’s office.

Action has been taken and the protruding bolts have been cut. Meanwhile, instead of waiting for problems to be highlighted in the media, enforcement officers in the course of their duty must be proactive and look out for impending problems and solve them before accidents happen.I take the opportunity to thank MBI for their quick action.

Tripping Hazard – Action taken

Before After

Looking for a HomeContact Claudia: 012 359 0476 (Noah’s Ark Ipoh & ISPCA)

Thumbs Up

Get more information from: www.facebook.com/ipoh.adoptables

Chummy, female, neutered & vaccinated, 1 year plus.

Riang, male, neutered & vaccinated, 1 year plus.

A. Jeyaraj

8 Your Voice In The CommunityIPOH ECHOJuly 16-31, 2014

Dressed in colourful costumes, some 350 children aged between three to seven years

old brought a circus to life in the 2014 Tenby Schools Ipoh Infant School Production one recent Saturday morning.

The show opened with two energetic dance numbers, “Pretending Day” and “I Can Go Anywhere With You”. It was the beginning of two hours of non-stop circus action through music, song and dance, from the dancing clowns to hoop dancers, acrobats, snake charmers, umbrella dancers, puppeteers and more.

Over 800 people, consisting of family members, school staff and guests, filled Dewan Leong Wan Chin in Ipoh to the brim, singing and clapping along to the music, lending warm support to the children.

The theme, “The Great Tenby Circus” was decided upon after learning that most children, who enjoyed themselves tremendously at role-playing during lessons, have never been to a real circus, and had very little knowledge about it.

Head of Ipoh International School Early Years Centre, Mrs Puvanes Mahendran said, “The annual production allowed children the opportunity to display their skills learned at school, to be reproduced on stage.”

The concert wrapped up with a fitting finale of “Fireworks”, a glitzy dance performance by Year 2 Green.

TourismYoung Perak

Announcements must be sent by fax: 05-255 2181; or email: announcements@ipohecho.com.my, by the 9th or 23rd of every month in order to meet deadlines. Announcements by phone will not be entertained. Ipoh Echo reserves the right to verify any announcement before it is published.

Announcements

Stamp Collectors: Next meeting of the Ipoh Stamp Group, Sunday July 20, 2pm @ Room 30, Urban Transformation Centre (former Super Kinta building), Ipoh. Free to join and all stamp collectors are welcome. For inquiries call Bernard 012 329 1747. Email: ipohstampgroup@yahoo.com. Facebook: The Stamp Gallery, Ipoh.Blood Donation: A Gift of Life, organised by Hospital Fatimah and Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Saturday July 26, 8.30am till 12.30pm at Hospital Fatimah Lobby, Ipoh. Free general blood screening for all donors. Contact customer service: 05 545 5777 Ext. 214.Kechara Earth Project organised by Kechara Ipoh Study Group, Sunday July 27, 9.30am to 11.30am at Jalan Dato Lau Pak Khuan, Ipoh Garden (in front of Ipoh Garden Post Office). Items that can be recycled: metal/aluminium, electronic equipment, plastics, newspaper/carton boxes, paper, old clothes (will be donated to Orang Asli). Contact: Mr So 016 532 8309 or Yee Mun 012 522 3200.ACS Ipoh Alumni Dinner 2014. The event will be held at the Kinta Riverfront Hotel and Suites, Ipoh ballroom on Saturday, August 2. For details and reservations call Ms Lim 05 241 2523, Lau Wun Chew 017 882 0608 or Jennifer Ng 012 518 0192. Website: www.acsipohalumni.com.

Parkinson’s Association’s Talk, ‘Creative Mindsets for Excellence’. Sunday August 3, 12.30pm-2.30pm (Mandarin), 3.30pm-5.30pm (English) at Kinta Riverfront Hotel, lpoh. International speaker: Teoh Poh Yew. A fundraising event for corporate leaders, teachers, trainers, parents and students (15 and above). Limited seats: 250 per session. For enquiries and tickets, Ms Terry Wong 05 545 5610 / 011 1640 8460 or Samuel Ng 012 557 1682.

The Great Daybreak Carnival 2014, Saturday August 16, 9am to 4pm at Daybreak Centre Pengkalan, Lot 75242, Jalan Pulai, RPT Pengkalan Pegoh, Lahat.YMCA of Ipoh Toastmasters Club meets every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at YMCA, 7.45pm. The mission of a Toastmasters club is to provide a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every individual member has the opportunity to develop oral communication and leadership skills, which in turn fosters self-confidence and personal growth. Contact: Ramesh 016 566 2866 or Nuryani 016 594 7258.

Perak Academy relocated to: 71 A (1st Floor), Jalan Tun Sambanthan, 30000 Ipoh (opposite Maybank, Old Town). Contact numbers: Tel/Fax – 05 241 3742 (Office), Mobile – 016 551 8172. Email: contact@perakacademy.com. Website: www.perakacademy.com.

The Great Tenby Circus

Emily

Ipoh City Council won the Tourism Promotion Organisation, Asia-Pacific’s (TPO) Best Destination Manager award recently. Winning the coveted title means that Ipoh is one of the top tourism cities in the Asia-Pacific region.Dato’ Nolee Ashilin, the Executive Councillor for Health, Tourism and Culture,

congratulated Ipoh City Council for the achievement. Ipoh was one of the winners in the ten categories contested which included Best Marketing Campaign, Best Advertising Printing, Best Advertising Broadcasting, Best Festival Event, Best CD Promotion, Best Tourism Brochure, Best Website, Best Destination Manager, Tourism Industry Leader of the Year and Best Public Relations Campaign.

“The recognition by TPO should be a timely boost for public departments, agencies and tourism players in Perak to play their part in ensuring that Ipoh remains as a top tourist destination,” she told reporters after receiving the award from TPO Secretary-

General, Hwan Myung Joo at The Majestic Hotel, Kuala Lumpur recently.

TPO is a network of cities in Asia-Pacific and international organisations in the tourism sector. It serves as a marketing, information and communication platform for member cities. A total of 72 cities are registered with TPO, including government departments and non-governmental organisations.

Perak state government, said Nolee, would continue to strengthen ties with cities that have tourism products of international repute. “Prolonged promotion in foreign countries would have encouraging results in terms of increased visitors. Ipoh may not be a large city but it is unique in terms of food, history and recreation,” she added.

RM

Best Destination Manager

Tenby Schools Ipoh spearheaded its Corporate Social

Responsibility (CSR) by inviting Persatuan DAYBREAK to manu-facture and supply socks to all Tenby Schools in Malaysia. Currently, there are five Tenby Schools – in Ipoh, Penang, Setia Eco Park in Shah Alam, Miri in Sarawak and Setia Eco Gardens in Johor Bahru with a total of 4300 stu-dents.

DAYBREAK provides vocational skills training for people with learning, intellectual and physical disabilities and empowers them to become self-reliant, independent and integrated members of society. With the approval of the Perak State Education Department, DAYBREAK is now selling their socks to schools in Perak.

DAYBREAK’s Acting General Manager, Mr Michael Fernando said, “The socks manufactured for the students of Tenby Schools are of a higher grade than the regular school socks produced by DAYBREAK. These socks are manufactured from a cotton spandex blend, which provides better breathability and greater comfort.” The cotton yarn for the socks are also sourced locally from a textile manufacturer in Batu Pahat, ensuring it is 100% Malaysian made.

Mrs Lai (pic, left), Director of Tenby Schools Ipoh, received the first batch of socks from Puan Sri Dato’ Sandra Lee, the Executive Chairperson of DAYBREAK, and Mr Michael Fernando at the school recently.

CommunityTenby’s CSR with DAYBREAK

With the soft launch of GreenAcres on July 12, TI Homes have brought to Peninsular Malaysia one of the first integrated retirement villages that will improve the lifestyle and quality of life of active and independent retirees.

Located in the fast upcoming township of Bandar Meru Raya, residents of GreenAcres can expect an international level of senior living facilities and care features, similar to retirement villages overseas. Indeed, the design of GreenAcres was a collaboration between Malaysian and Australian architects who have brought out the best living conditions whilst keeping seniors in mind.

The idea for GreenAcres came from the co-founder of TI Homes, Mrs Chong Heng Kiong, who first came across retirement villages in Australia twenty years ago. Said her son, John Chong, Executive Director of the company, “Over the past few years, we can see more and more people looking for an alternative from regular old folks’ homes. We now feel that the market is ready for a retirement village.”

Built on a land size of thirteen acres, GreenAcres addresses the needs of the elderly at many levels, from social to psychological needs and subsequently, in Phase 2 of the project, different levels of care needs at its aged care facility, run by trained nursing staff. Convenience for residents is top priority here.

The retirement village portion of GreenAcres will see 110 landed units available. There will be six layouts to choose from, the smallest being one bedroom suites at

First Integrated Retirement Village Launched730 sq. ft., up to the largest at 1100 sq. ft.

The second component will be low-rise apartments with elevators. There will be three blocks, four storeys per block.

Units are not for sale but leased out to interested parties for personal use, at the starting price of RM300,000 for a lifetime. Additionally, there will be a monthly maintenance fee starting from RM300+ depending on the size of unit leased.

GreenAcres, which will be commencing construction soon, is expected to complete by the first quarter of 2016.

For further information, contact TI Homes directly at +605 253 6555.TI Homes, an Ipoh company, has been involved in property development, primarily

landed residential projects, since 1993. Their current projects include Bandar Baru Tambun, Tiara Lake Park and Taman Meru Mutiara.

Lifestyle

Emily

Your Voice In The Community July 16-31, 2014IPOH ECHO 9

Get your copy fromBuy SeeFoon’s Food Guide to Ipoh

Popular Bookstores1. MPH Bookstores2. SS Mubarak & Sons, Jln Sultan Yussuf (Old Town). Tel: 05-2540416/24313623. Manaff Store, Jln SA Lingam, Ipoh Garden South. Tel: 05-54596484. Lourd Enterprise, Canning Garden. Tel: 05-54592995. Indulgence, Jln Raja DiHilir. Tel: 05-2557051/24262976. Royal Ipoh Club, Jln Bkt. Gantang. Tel: 05-2542212/25456467. Burps & Giggles, Jln Sultan Yussuf (Old Town). Tel: 05-24261888. Citrus Wine & Dine, Ipoh Garden East. Tel: 05-54510109. Barbeza, Bandar Baru Medan Ipoh. Tel: 012-520587710. Impiana Hotel Ipoh, Jln Raja Dr Nazrin Shah. Tel: 05-255555511. Ipoh Downtown Hotel, Jln Sultan Idris Shah. Tel: 05-255676612. D’Eastern Hotel, Jln Sultan Idris Shah. Tel: 05-254393613. YMCA Ipoh, Jln Raja Musa Aziz. Tel: 05-2540809/253946414. Meru Valley Golf Club members’ desk15. Khimzian Enterprise, 75 Jln Yang Kalsom. Tel: 05-242738116. Sunway College Ipoh, Psrn SCI 2/2, Sunway City Ipoh. Tel: 05-545439817. Break the Code, Greentown Business Centre. Tel: 05-242048418. Symphony Suites, Jln Lapangan Symphony. Tel: 05-312228819. Olympia College, 18 Jln CM Yussuff. Tel: 05-243386820. Ibis Styles Ipoh, 18 Jln Chung On Siew. Tel: 05-240688821. Daybreak, Lot 75242 Jalan Pulai, RPT Pengkalan Pegoh. Tel: 05-3235908/0922. Banyan Beauty, 40 Jln Raja Dihilir. Tel: 05-2426866/012-507386623. Ipoh Echo’s office24.

RPP RM29

BookXcess, a remainder bookstore located in Amcorp Mall, Petaling Jaya as well as Fahrenheit88, Kuala Lumpur, has built its reputation as a one-stop centre in offering a wide selection of books, from best-selling novels, children’s, cooking, architecture,

literature, history, evergreen classics, to decor, at hugely discounted prices. BookXcess prides itself in living up to its tagline, ‘Read more for less’, with a single-minded mission: to encourage the joy of reading, by making books available to everyone at affordable prices.

For years, the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale organised by BookXcess has been the talk of Malaysia, especially in Kuala Lumpur. They have a reputation for holding the world’s biggest warehouse book sales at greatly reduced prices with crazy discounts starting at 85%. The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale has been on annually at the Malaysia International Exhibition & Convention Centre (MIECC), attracting customers who would turn up with their trolley luggage bags, leaving the place with a smile on their faces and a bag full of books. For those who were not prepared, staff would hand out empty boxes for customers to fill up for their convenience.

Through the years, the Big Bad Wolf Facebook page has been flooded with suggestions from fans across the country to hold their sales in their city. Finally after a long wait, the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale will be hauling its hoard to the Kinta Valley for the first time on July 24-29. The book sale will be held for 12 hours daily from 10am to 10pm at the Perfect Home Living (PHL) Convention Centre at 169 Hala Perusahaan Menglembu 13, Kawasan Perindustrian Menglembu 13, in Menglembu, Ipoh (GPS: N 04 34.819′ E101 02.298′).

There will be almost 400,000 books to look forward to, ranging from fiction, non-fiction, children’s, and young adult titles. The sale will also be headlining some outstanding titles for the first time in Ipoh such as, Nicholas Sparks Holiday Pack, Jodi Picoult’s Change Of Heart, Why Mars and Venus Collide, Dork Diaries, as well as the biography of legendary Sir Alex Ferguson. This corresponds with the promise that the books showcased at this year’s sale are not leftover titles from Big Bad Wolf sales of Kuala Lumpur!

For the first time at the Big Bad Wolf sale in Ipoh, fans will be able to buy imported non-book products including posters, collectibles, tin-plated signage items, box sets, and activity kits to their ever growing collection. The sale also offers unique handcrafted book themed furniture in an array of assorted designs.

As the official partner for Big Bad Wolf Book Sale, Hong Leong Bank credit cardholders shall enjoy an additional 5% discount at the sale. The Big Bad Wolf is also howling out to all students with the BB1M vouchers to bring and use their book vouchers at the sale.

So put down your electronic devices, pull out your giant trolley luggage bags and head on to the book sales. And expect the unexpected.

For more information about the ‘Big Bad Wolf’ book sale or BookXcess, visit https://www.facebook.com/bbwbooks and www.bookxcess.com.

First Time in Perak– The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale

Upcoming Events by Susan Ho

Raya Raya di Ipoh Flea MarketBurps and Giggles will be

running another flea market along the alley beside it, Kong Heng Square and The Old Block Square. This one will be called ‘Raya Raya di Ipoh at Bandits Alley’, will take place on July 26 and 27 from 10am to 4pm.

Based on previous successful flea markets which they have run, there is strong interest from an additional range of vendors, selling products and services such as local desserts, kuih Raya, clay art, fashion accessories, handmade bags, art and craft, home decor and many more. In addition, Burps and Giggles have invited talented local and KL performers to join in for a charity bonanza to raise funds for ‘The Good Shepherd Sisters’ Perak charity. There will be shows like miming, flashmob, music basking, art jamming and definitely comedy. Proceeds collected on Sunday will be donated to the charity.

They are aiming to have this flea market once every month.For any further information, contact Burps and Giggles at 05 242 6188.

10 Your Voice In The CommunityIPOH ECHOJuly 16-31, 2014

Ramadan Round-up

To mark the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, Syeun Hotel, Ipoh distributed over 500 packets of bubur lambuk (porridge) to the public. The event was held on Saturday, June 28 at the hotel's foyer. It soon spread to

the front with the hotel staff distributing the packets to passing motorists and pedestrians.

“It’s Syeun Hotel’s way of heralding the fasting month. We’re doing it big this year as part of the hotel’s corporate social responsibility programme,” said Maggie Ong, the hotel’s general manager and director.

There to give away the goodies were Hj Odzman Kadir, President of the Perak Tourism Association, Rushisha Haris, Perak Fire and Rescue Department Zone 1 Chief and Councillor Mazlan Abdul Rahman of Ipoh City Council.

Tower Regency Hotel, Ipoh hosted a buka puasa (breaking-of-fast) dinner for 192 orphans from 15 orphanages and welfare homes in and around Ipoh. After dinner, which consisted of a good mix of local dishes and desserts, the children were

presented with goodies and duit raya by Dato’ Nolee Ashilin the Executive Councillor for Culture and Tourism. Present at the function were the Director of Tourism Malaysia (Perak), Ibrahim Seddiqi Talib and Syahruddin Abdul Hamid, director of the Ministry of Tourism (Perak).

“The occasion is aimed at spreading the Ramadan joy to all, especially to the underprivileged. Hopefully, we’ve achieved what we had set out to do,” said Simon Leong, Director of Tower Regency Hotel to Ipoh Echo.

A request to hold a buka puasa dinner at ibis Styles Hotel by Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Haji Abdul Wahab, Sg Siput was cordially welcomed by the hotel. But what was not told to them was that

the hotel had magnanimously agreed to host the dinner for the 25 under-privileged students and three teachers of the school for free.

The students were mostly from the lower rung of the social ladder many of whom had yet to set foot in a hotel let alone have dinner there. The gesture, which bodes well with the charitable spirit of Ramadan, was part of ibis Styles’ corporate social responsibility to the public.

Greeting the taste buds of those present were a variety of Malay cuisines which included bubur lambuk, sambal belacan, chicken curry, beef rendang and an assortment of ulam-ulaman; just to name a few. Abu Bakar Abdullah, the accompanying teacher, thanked the hotel management for the gesture. “You’ve walked the extra mile for us and I am so grateful,” he exclaimed.

The increase in dengue cases in cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Ipoh is a cause for concern. At the Ipoh City Council full-board meeting on Monday, June 30 council members were united in calling for a solution to the problem. They cited cleanliness as the reason behind the scourge.

Due to the fasting month hawker stalls are popping up like mushrooms after a downpour in and around the city. The council urges hawkers to be more civic-minded and keep their surroundings clean. Clogged drains and discarded containers with water become likeable breeding grounds for mosquitoes. This is an age-old problem that does not seem to dissipate with time, regardless of so many campaigns and reminders.

Mayor Dato’ Harun Rawi said that the council would work closely with the Health Ministry to prevent dengue from spreading. Fogging of affected areas will be done on a fixed schedule and so will ground inspections. He has identified certain hot spots within the city which will be given priority. This is to optimise the council’s limited resources.

“Stopping the disease from spreading is a collective effort. Residents should play their part in ensuring that areas around their houses are clean. Don’t just rely on the council alone,” he said.

Dengue Cases on the RiseNews

Eager to share the spirit of giving in the holy month of Ramadan, Impiana Hotel, Ipoh organised a buka puasa dinner for 44 orphans and minders of Darussalam Welfare Home as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility programme. The event was held at

the hotel’s banquet room on Saturday, July 5.The objective of this benevolent gesture is to acknowledge individuals who are less

fortunate and as a means of giving back to the community.The hotel, along with associations such as the Perak’s Sports and Media Welfare Club, the

Malaysia Professionals and Entrepreneurs Club, MBI Officers’ Association and Syarikat Maju Jaya, got together to sponsor gifts and gave away duit raya to the orphans so they too could have a memorable Hari Raya Puasa like everyone else.

Sharing the Ramadan Spirit

Heralding Ramadan

Cheering up the children

ibis in the Spirit of Ramadan

Yvette

Your Voice In The Community July 16-31, 2014IPOH ECHO 11

Community

Once upon a time in Lim Garden, the thrice weekly household garbage collection was very

efficient and occasionally if the garbage is not collected on the scheduled day, it was collected the following morning. Lately, the collection has been erratic. I kept track of garbage collection for the months of March and April. The garbage was to have been collected for 26 days, but actual collection was for 16 days, a drop of 38 per cent in efficiency.

When the assessment rate was increased 0.5 per cent, former Mayor Roshidi said that with this increase, MBI would provide better service; it looks like the other way round.

It is time for the new Mayor to follow his predecessor and turun padang and meet the residents and hear their problems personally. I have not had the opportunity to meet the new Mayor and so far none of my friends have met him. It is time for him to make himself accessible and be seen more often in public.

My suggestion is that the appointed councillors for each zone be made responsible to supervise the garbage collection and other essential services like drain cleaning in their respective zones. They can also observe other works carried out by MBI workers. By doing this the councillors can get to know their zones and meet the residents as well. During monthly MBI Board Meetings they could submit their reports. This is one of the ways the residents could rate the performance of their councillors.

A. Jeyaraj

Assessment Up Efficiency Down

Upon visiting Kampung Orang Asli Chang in

Bidor, Perak, YouthCorp Malaysia came to realise that while we are so engrossed on emphasizing making vision 2020 a success, the lifestyle of the Orang Asli community is nowhere near towards our goals. The Tok Batin (village head) of the kampung said that the younger generation lacks knowledge about the professional courses available and thus their interest in education is low.

“That made us decide to inspire these children to become young professionals in Malaysia,” said Dr Venkates Rao Enkatesulu, President of YouthCorp Malaysia.

A group of YouthCorp Malaysia volunteers from mixed professions, consisting of doctors, lawyers, engineers, architect and lecturers, visited Kampung Orang Asli recently with a specially tailored programme to engage them individually to identify their interests and enlighten them on the various job sectors open to them. They were briefed on interesting and challenging aspects of being a professional especially in terms of contributing towards the betterment of our nation.

The mission of this approach is to create professional exposure and as well as to inspire them to become a better generation. “We managed to break the ice between us and this was achieved through the efforts in understanding their background first. This is our very first step in making a difference in these children’s lives. We can never claim that it’s a success until we see the product, therefore there must be continuous follow-up sessions to ensure that the children are on the right path to pursue their dreams with the correct guidance,” added Dr Rao.

Young and professional volunteers are encouraged to be part of Project Inspire Orang Asli. Email: youthcorpmalaysia@gmail.com.

To Empower Young Orang Asli

In conjunction with World Red Crescent Day, the Malaysian Red Crescent, Perak Branch held its Flag Day to commemorate the event

and to collect funds for the society.The Perak chapter initiated the programme

by giving out awards to its high achievers. The ceremony was attended by members from various districts in Perak.

“Since 2013, membership in the society is on the increase. Today, we have a total of 26,000 members. I am happy to note that many Malaysians are passionate in helping those in need. We must remember that our first responsibility is to help people, regardless of race, social standing or belief,” said Perak’s Red Crescent Society President, Dato’ Haji Mohammad Rafiai bin Haji Moktar in his opening speech. He thanked members of the Red Crescent Society for their dedication in carrying out their responsibilities.

Although donation activities are ongoing, the Ipoh branch has collected an impressive RM30,000 so far. The society hopes more funds will be obtained than last year when only RM46,417 was collected from the state’s 15 branches.

The society currently operates an ambulance which is located in Ipoh. Dato’ Hj Mohammad Rafiai implores Perakeans to be more supportive, as it needs their backing to be viable.

Red Crescent is a humanitarian-aid organisation with 189 branches worldwide.

Red Crescent on Donation DriveDomestic violence is a social problem with which we are all too familiar. In fact, news about violence inflicted on women is so common that most have

become numb by it.Mindful of this, the Perak Women Empowerment and

Development Council, with the collaboration of the Perak Women and Health Bureau, organised a forum recently to educate and create awareness in the public regarding domestic violence and its implications.

“We want women who suffer from domestic violence to stand up and fight back. It’s not their fault for getting beaten up. Domestic violence doesn’t affect women alone, it affects the family and society too. That’s why we need to educate the public that it’s everyone’s problem,” said Perak Women and Health Bureau Chairperson, Dr Sharifah Halimah Jaafar to Ipoh Echo.

“This forum is very informative because it not only tells why domestic violence occurs, it also deals with ways to help women who are victims,” said Rosilawati, 39, a staff nurse attached to the Ipoh General Hospital. Rosilawati comes across many such cases in her line of work at the hospital.

The event, held at the multi-purpose hall of the State Secretariat Building recently, saw community leaders, members of non-governmental organisations, civil servants and the public participating in a lively exchange of information.

One other problem commonly associated with victims of domestic violence is their reluctance to share their woes with others.

“Some choose not to report to the authorities for fear of losing face while others do so for some inexplicable reasons. Hopefully, this forum will help them find the answers they are looking for thus far,” exclaimed Sharifah.

The Perak Women Empowerment and Development Council under Dato’ Rusnah Kassim, the Executive Councillor for Women’s Affairs, will organise similar forums in other parts of the state in its effort to create awareness in the public domain.

Creating Awarenesson Domestic Violence

YvetteYvette

12 Your Voice In The CommunityIPOH ECHOJuly 16-31, 2014

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