Why Play Chess?

The game of chess is one of the most popular games around the world. I’m not going to talk about the history of where the game begins (which is quite useless, because no one really knows for sure). I’m not going to talk about the boring stuffs like the rules and how to play this magnificent game either. You can check it out at wikipedia or any other sites later on.

Instead, what I’m trying to stress on this post is that we can learn a lot of things and gain a lot of advantage by playing chess.

1. Chess enhanced problem solving and abstract reasoning.
The main problem that the players should bear in mind is “How can I make it a checkmate?”. Therefore they will work their way throughout the game. In their effort to do this, they are calculating probabilities in each step. This is one of the reasons why some people associate this game to mathematics.

2. Chess trained us to stay focus
Based on my personal experience, you won’t win unless you are completely focusing on the game. Living in this new world with television and many other interactive electronic applications can cause lack of concentration. This may affect students and workers in their performance in their field. Therefore chess is a good start to fix this problem.

3. Chess trained us to work under pressure
Every player has their own personality. Some will act like some sort of bully—usually they are really good at chess and find excitement in their own way when facing players who are not at the same level. Facing these kind of opponent which will attack our king in every single step, or trick us to take away their valuable pieces but in turn, we’ll lose our queen, is very depressing. Besides this, there are many other factors that can cause pressure, for example, playing in tournaments.

4. Chess opens up the world for the players
Players can join any open tournament no matter whether they are beginners, intermediate or even the grand masters. There is no limit. You’ll meet a lot of players from different backgrounds—some attended international school of chess, some received training from professional player, and some are just ordinary people with extraordinary interest.

5. Chess doesn’t cost that much
Even if you can’t afford chess board, or not willing to purchase the game, you can always play it online, for FREE!!!!

6. Chess teaches us to take risks
Sometimes we need to take risks whatever it takes in order to save our king and to meet victory. After all, this is life all about, right?

Well, there are many other reasons why you should enjoy chess as much as I do. If you think that chess is only for smart people, well, guess it again. You are totally wrong! You don’t have to be smart. All you need is to learn the basic principles of how to move the pieces and the remainder will just come naturally. However, you need to be smart if you want to be good in the game. Of course you have to, it is like you have to be as good as a manager—who decides which piece should be sacrificed, and as good as an artist—because the steps and strategies are a form of art. Lessons from your own experience will somehow help you, so no need to worry.

Shopaholic Series

I’m not really into shopping, really. Yup, I’m a girl and I’m growing up, but still I didn’t have this urge to go shopping unless I really need to or if my parents happen to be asking me to buy something. I don’t know what I’ve missed out, maybe I’ll be lacking of crucial skills. I think that shopping requires a lot of skills, don’t you think so? You have to know the time of the year when sales are going on. You have to know which brand is the best and worth the money. You have to know how to choose the right clothes. And I don’t really master these things because whenever I go shopping, all I care is that I got everything on my list and get out of the store as quickly as I can. Every time I set a new record, I’ll be proud and I determined to set a new one next time. If you know any other person who does this, please inform me. ;p

Anyway, I’m actually going to write about the Shopaholic series by Sophie Kinsella. Have you ever read any of them? Some of my friends prefer Harry Potter series but I have to say that I have no interest on them. Hey, no offense. It’s just that I like to watch the movies rather than spending my time trying to imagining what’s written by J.K Rowling in the books. After all, it’s easier to watch movies right?

Alright, alright. Let’s go back into the main topic- the Shopaholic series. My first novel in the series is the ‘Shopaholic & Baby’, so I’m going to be specific about it throughout this entry. I read about Rebecca Bloomwood (now Brandon) because my friend suggested me to and I’m quite bored with homework. So, I spend some time reading again and I’m really impressed because usually I won’t read novels where the main characters don’t suit my taste or lifestyle. Even if I have to read, I’ll spend my time cursing that character. But Becky is an exception. Even if she is worst in managing her own finance (as a financial journalist, this is weird, how can she survive?), I think that we should give her a standing ovation for her creativity and her bravery too. Oh, I think that she is brave enough to fight against Venetia. Their rivalry is so classical.

When I look into novels, it’s not just the characters that count. If I’m going to judge a book, I’ll judge based on the conflicts that the author comes out with and how the characters react with the conflict. And Sophie did gain my respect, just like I respect R.L Stine because she manage to make my heart pounding so hard and made me laugh too at certain point.

It seems that I’ve ran out of ideas of what’s more to write about the novels. I guess it’s indescribable. You have to read it and you’ll know what I am talking about.

If you want to read an excerpt of the latest novels, you can always visit this site You know, before you decide whether or not to buy it at the bookstore. (Am I good at convincing people to buy things? Coz I don’t think that I’ve done a great job.)

because believing is beautiful

I know that everyone can say that they believe in God, but to me, we believe in God by not just our words, but also our heart and our actions. Action speaks louder than word, right? Basically, there are 6 articles of belief in Islam - One God, prophets as messengers, holy books, angels, judgment day and fate. For me, believing in them can lead to a happy life. For example, when I believe in the existence of God who made the entire universe, who wants me to good things, then I've known my purpose in life. When I believe in the prophet, then I can trust and follow his way. When I believe in the holy book, I'll read it and think about it, and discover the truth easily. When I believe in angels, who will look at everything I do, then I'll never do something shameful or bad. When I believe in fate, then I don't have to feel sad when I lost something or someone. I can understand why many people said that it is foolish to practice good moral values in modern days because the world is controlled by greedy people. However, as a person who believes in the judgment day, I never intend to compromise my moral values. I think that we should be the best person we can be as we have been given only one chance to live, and that's it. I think that my life is only for God, who made me who I am, who gave me everything I have. I pray to God that I won't forget who I am and my promise to God. And I think it is easy to be me, when I believe in God. And that is Allah The Almighty.

Global Warming

Okay, now let’s try to talk about a more serious matter. I’m quite bored writing on just the same things all over again, so why not try something new. This time I would like to talk about global warming.

I chose this topic simply because I am fully aware that this is not good at all. I mean, I’ve done some research on global warming a few months ago (for my EST class) and I don’t like what I read. The first thing I got to know is that global warming is a slight increase in temperature around the globe. Maybe those who live in the Artic think that a few increases in degree Celsius might be pleasant, but scientists keep worrying. Even some of the coldest places in Siberia experience increase in temperature. And these little changes give humongous impact on the world.

Global warming causes the ice shelves to break. This will consequently made the sea level increase too. I don’t watch news that much but I think this is the reason why some low-lying countries got flooded nowadays. Flood is not a good thing as it will not just take away people’s life but also damage their properties.

Recently, I watch a documentary on National Geographic and it seems that the wildlife in the North Pole is affected too. Without ice, animals like the polar bear and seal will have difficulties to survive. This is just an example in a small part of the world. What about those in other regions? Of course they will naturally get used to it over time. That’s the use of evolution. But how can we be certain that these animals are able to evolve before they become extinct? That is a question that we should bear in mind.

Maybe you don’t really care about some wildlife that you never even heard of or never get the chance to know about due to your busy life. (I know some people like this) Would you change your perception if I tell you that global warming also causes other changes such as rainfall pattern and increases in the range of disease vectors? Some of these changes will somehow affect our economy. Hey, here I come, a fresh high school graduate trying to talk about economy! Well, I have to say that I don’t know that much and I don’t have any data to convince you. But believe me that the agricultural industry will be affected. And that means that we will become short of food. And that will lead to higher price market. Of course that we have genetically modified food that is resistant to this and that, but these foods are costly too, right? And in the end who will starve to death? The answer to this question got to be the poor and those who live in the third-world countries. Hey, this is an endless problem.

I’m sure you are tired with this article. You might say ‘Why should I read what a kid has to say about such a global problem that many world leaders can’t solve?’

Well, I can’t solve the problem alone. But I can do my part, although just a tiny part, but I believe that this will cause a huge impact somehow. First of all, I tried to raise awareness about global warming and its effects. I always talk about this matter that sometimes I irritated my friends. p/s: SORRY! Secondly, knowing that one of the causes of global warming is the release of greenhouse gases, I tried my best to do my part. I cycle instead on riding a motorcycle or using cars. I make sure that the refrigerator in my house is closed tightly and I don’t open the door too long. I recycle newspaper, glass and any other recyclable items. (Hey, I got money in return, so this is fun). I’m sure there’s a lot more that I can do. I’m sure, you, my readers can do the same too.

We can’t afford to lose the Earth due to our own carelessness and ignorance. Play your part and save our world.

More Weird Facts About Me

A friend of mine asked me to tell more about myself. It took me quite a few months to reply the mail. This is weird. Why in the world I could not write anything despite the fact that I do love to write? I mean, the English Unit of my school asks the students to write journals and submit them to the teachers. And I’m the only one (I think) in my class who writes more than what we have been told to write. I write anything about school, my life in hostel, my family, my pets, my nephews, EVERYTHING. And now I can’t write simple things about me, myself, and I????

After giving it some thought, I came up with a simple explanation – I don’t know myself anymore, and I need help immediately. Argh!!!! This is pathetic, I know. But I’m not the one who should be completely blamed of. I said so because I was just too busy with school and activities at school, and busy to fit myself in the school community that I don't do things that I enjoy very much anymore.

I really miss myself. That's why I'm using this holiday to be with me, myself and I again. Yay ME! (hey, I sounds like Kuzco!) I tried to recall ‘the Me’ in the past by browsing my photo albums and my writings and I found out that I used to enjoy spending most of my time indoor with my computer, chess, books or anime. But I also enjoy outdoor activities, close to nature. And it's great to be able to do all of this during this holiday.

Today (or should I say yesterday since it’s already 1.30 a.m in the morning) I enjoyed myself once again when I went to Kampung Pasir, where a friend lives. It was nothing much really but I like the journey across the busy and diverging roads which are full of cars and heavy vehicles. Everything moves so fast. This is so me again. I can’t find these back at my school. Things get better since two other friends were there with me too. We get to exercise and use our muscles to cycle up the hill, and it wasn’t easy after I lead quite a slow an inactive life at hostel.

Well, not too inactive actually since sometimes I manage to jog with my beloved warden. She doesn’t mind taking my friends and me to the Maxwell Hill or the Lake Garden. That reminds me that I have never been able to reach the top of Maxwell Hill due to packed time. This is quite a loss to me, what am I doing by entering the chess competition???

Enough of babbling, it’s good to write something again in this blog after focusing so much on my study and SPM. Got to go.

Is this you?

I’ll start this entry with a story about a girl I know who seems to be happy all the time, even though she always gets sick. She has some sort of problem with her immune system. The doctor confirmed that her body is lacking of white blood cells. I will feel bad and not in the mood every time I get flu, I can’t understand why she is ok with that. I asked her what her secret is. She said that “When you’ve been used to the worst condition, it doesn’t bother you anymore. I’m grateful that I’m still alive.”

I’m stumbled. Her statement gave me an idea to write about ungrateful people who take things for granted. Take a look at the poor people who are used to just eat whatever they had on their plate, compared to those rich people who refuse to eat and throw away their food just because the food in dining hall (in our school) doesn’t fit their taste. I hate this kind of people. They are not grateful of what they have. Some of my friends said that they are afraid to have their breakfast, or lunch or even dinner with me because I’ll force them to finish everything on their tray. It’s not my fault. Is it really hard to just eat?

What about the people who don’t know to reduce the usage of water and electricity. Living in Malaysia, of course we don’t have to face the high bills, YET! Aren’t you people aware of the cost for purifying water and also the cost of generating electricity? I’m disappointed in some people, students of MARA especially when they are not thinking of the money wasted to pay the bills. It’s not their money, but the citizens’ money. Not just those students actually. Let’s face it- a lot of Malaysians are doing the same thing.

And the most ungrateful thing is when some people waste their time fooling around when they are supposed to strive hard and make their parents proud. If you think you’re one of them, ask your parents of how much did they spent on your education. Or if you are smart, just count the school fees, tuition fees, books and your pocket money that they have given to you from standard one until you’ve finish school and then university. It isn’t cheap.

I’m expressing my concern in my blog. Sorry if it bothers you, my readers. I hope that some people will take their time to think of my point. That’s all.

... not GOOD ENOUGH!

Imagine things like this in your life. First, you got a few A's in the final exam. Maybe you think that it is not so bad. Let’s twist this story a little bit by imagining you, in spite of those A's; you also got a D, in history!!!!!

Or try this- you hang out with your friends. You know that your parents are not going to like it as your friends here, enjoy loitering in the malls, smoking, and generally do stupid things. Your mom’s friend saw you one day. To make things spicy, she is not just telling your mom, she tells everyone- so much like CNN really.

Nightmare huh? Let’s not stop there. Think of how your parents might react. They might scold you or stop giving you allowance, or even worst, you’re grounded for life.

In this situation, should you blame others- Teachers; Friends; Your parents; God; or the CNN Auntie? Hey, what about yourself?

I don’t think that blaming others or yourself is really the right thing to do. You can’t blame your parents. Of course they are mad of you when they have spent a lot of money on your education- school fees, private tuition, books, school needs. They are not cheap you know. How do you repay them? Bad grade is it? No way. Repay them with those annoying words from the CNN auntie? I don’t think so.

You can’t blame your friends too. They have no right to force you to join them. Why hanging out with the useless friends in the first place. If they should not be blamed, then is it the teachers? The answer is absolutely not. If you are the one who never finishes the homework, who always disturbs the class or never show up at school, I can’t see the rational of blaming the teachers.

I’m posting this not to under estimate you, my fellow friends. I just want you to realize that the world does not care to help you unless you want to help yourself first. If you think that you have done your best, please REMEMBER this- it is still not GOOD ENOUGH!

Fear Factor, in school?

Believe it or not, Fear Factor in school is fun, and exciting, and hilarious, and effective, and joyful, and….. Alright, alright, I’ll stop.

Sorry if I bothered you. Ok, let me tell you how and what exactly is Fear Factor in school. My English for Science and Technology (EST) teacher assigned us into 5 groups. Each group have to do some kind of show-and-tell with one of these creatures– cockroaches, worms, millipede, frog and spiders. And after that, the ‘lucky’ person will get the chance to hold the organisms.

We voted, and my group got frog. We got the information we needed from Wikipedia, and that was it, mainly because we did the research a few minutes before the EST class. Yeah, I know. Last minute job is not perfect, but all of us were busy with our own tasks, and at least we got the info on time.

First, we showed the frog in front of the class. The frog was brought by Wana. She is the only one who went home last weekend. The rest of us chose to spend the short 3-days break at the hostel. Anyway, there are a lot of interesting facts about frog that I never know before. Facts such as many frogs contain mild toxin, in other word, they are poisonous.

After that, we chose Faris who is obviously afraid of frogs. He showed his bravery and accepted our challenge to hold the frog for a while. I felt pity for the frog though because he held it quite hard, it seemed like he’s going to squeeze the frog to death.

Anyway, this activity is extremely the best of all EST class because I got the chance to face my fear. Worms! I volunteered to hold them. I felt their cold and soft body, and it was the first time that I think worms are cute.

There were a lot of hilarious scenes, including the time when our class president accidentally crushed a cockroach. Luckily the group brought 2 cockroaches. And it was funny when Zaini threw a worm onto Farhanah’s desk. Oh, I can’t describe how angry Farhanah has gotten due to that incident.

The group with millipede got my respect when they worked hard to find one. My friend couldn’t sleep until she found one. I like their spirit. However, the millipede they got is quite small. I’ve got the chance to see and touch a bigger one last year at FRIM. It was so big that I couldn’t believe that it was just a millipede.

However, the group who should show-and-tell spiders failed to do so. They said they couldn’t find any spider. Yeah, right. I don’t think so, because I’ve bumped into a lot of spiders, of any size and species. I was quite disappointed because spider is like my favourite among the 5 organisms.

Anyway, I like this kind of thing. Don’t you think that it would be boring if we learned all this from just the books?

Truth is bitter, NOT!

Have you ever felt something weird enough, that your brain is getting too much nerve and from the bottom of your heart, it feels so wrong? Wow, it’s a long question. Seriously, have you?

Well, I have. And here is a story about ME! (Funny, I sounded like Kuzco). About 2 years ago, my teacher said something (as usual) in the assembly. And that time he was talking about the importance of making early preparation for an exam. He said something about you will never know if you are going to be sick on the day before the exam, so it is better to start revising now.

I never intended to make fun of his advice but I basically did that. I said I never have a problem to ace my exam even if I did my revision the day before an exam. My bad, I know. Everything went wrong from then on. I always get fever during exam weeks; it is so bad that I couldn’t pay much attention on the books, and worst, I couldn't answer properly because all I want is to rest.

You can’t imagine how bad it feels during the end of the year exam, then PMR, and you know what, this year, I got fever 5 times (during all 5 exam)! I don’t know whether it has something to do with my rudeness or maybe just because I’m weak. All I can think about is that God wants to show me that being rude is NO GOOD.

I started to feel guilty when I realized the fact that maybe it would hurt the teacher’s feeling if he had heard me at that time. I told my mom about this and she suggested me to tell him the truth and say that I’m sorry. It’s kind of hard since I’ve transferred to MJSC Taiping, so I’ll have to go to his house. Of course it will be easier to just give him a call, but I don’t think that it is a good idea.

I never got the chance until yesterday. I was there, right in front of his house. He was just home after the Friday’s prayer. I greeted him and told everything, and I apologized. He smiled and didn’t show any sign of anger. I wasn’t paying much attention because I was busy restraining myself from crying but I think he said something like he would forgive everyone before going to bed everyday because we would never know when we’ll die. Maybe you don’t see the connection, but I do.

He said not to worry since he has forgiven me a long time ago. It is a relief and you can’t imagine how great it felt. People say that truth is bitter. I don’t think so because it is SWEET!

To all of you out there, I advice you to spill out the truth; it really lowers your burden. And please be careful and think more than twice before you say something. Who knows you might get into trouble, just like I did.

Hakuna Matata?

Have you ever watch The Lion King 3: Hakuna Matata? If you had, remember what Rafiki told Timon? He said: “Look beyond what you see”. Of course it is funny (and cute) that Timon takes it literally. Anyway, I’m telling you this to make your brain there think and look around us, take a look beyond what you see.

Now, what am I talking about? Let me make this easy for everyone. I believe that every single organism on the Earth has something that we should think about. And this is where we can apply the concept.

Take a look at ants for instant. They are social insects and they are well-organized colonies. Please take note that these ants will do anything and everything, just to find food. It’ll travel far, far away to search for food. And if it can’t lift it up on its own, the others will come along and help out. Isn’t it beautiful?

And that’s not all. I’ve seen them so strong. They’ll hold on and never give up easily. My mom planted a mango tree in front of our house, and there’s a lot of weaver ants (is that what they’re called in English?). One day, I was trying to clean a dustbin, which is surrounded by many of these ants. I sprayed the bin with water. And they just don’t know how to let go. I gave up and left the bin for some time, hoping they’ll go away.

I think that people should adapt these values in their life. Every time I’m feeling down, I’ll never let go. I can go on talking about the values we can learn from ants, but I prefer for you to think about it and look beyond what you see.

Let’s see another example. Take a look at camels. I’ve seen and touched them in Saudi Arabia 2 years ago, and I kind of like them (besides their smells). Camels are able to withstand changes in body temperature and water content that would kill most other animals, which means they can survive in the dessert without water for 2 weeks.

Camels are very useful when they once helped human beings to travel in the dessert. In turn, human take a good care of them. All I can see here is it is important for us to help weaker person because we’ll need their help someday, just like the camels did.

There are a lot more things to see. Iguana, orang utan, crocodile, and dolphin, just name it and look beyond what you see. And you’ll find that the colour of life is beautiful. Good luck!