September 30, 2005
Friday Blabber
I wanted to create multiple posts of events since most of them are independent from each other in terms of category and so forth. Not wanting to sound like an attention whore and also to keep this blog simple and organized, I’ve decided to create one long post with several breakups (think mini series). If you are ready for the challenge in reading long post, this is the one for you. Just put on your reading glasses, lean forward and happy reading.
Starting my morning
As planned many days before, I was supposed to send off my cousin James to the bus terminal at Pudu Raya this afternoon. He’s leaving for home in Singapore after his 1 week stay with us. Knowing the traffic conditions in this hellish place and the crazy parking fees, I’ve decided to use the local rail system instead. It’s after all the most affordable and stress free method of transport to the jam prone heart of KL city.
Breath of Death
The moment I stepped out of the comfortable air conditioned LRT (light rail transit), I find myself chocking on warm exhaust from diesel buses. It’s been almost 3 years since I’ve set foot on this part of KL. The reason for this is strongly related to the time I first got my driving license and enjoyed the pleasure of having my own transport and the freedom of movement. Plus, I no longer find this part of KL attractive mostly due to the un-breathable and sweating-ly hot environment. But, the main reason why I abandoned this place is because I’ve kicked my video arcade addiction which manifest my younger years. (used to travel to KL for my weekly video game fix)
New attractions
When James boarded the bus, I wished him bon voyage. My errands for the day is done and I had the rest of the day to myself. Before leaving for university for my 5 o’ clock lecture, I’ve decided to give the good ol’ video arcades a visit for old times sakes. Also, to keep updated on the games that are currently in the market.
I was looking forward for a game or two of “Ninja Assault” on the big screen. I used to play as 2 players (using both guns ala Tomb Raider style). Sadly, the game was not there. However, I’ve found something interesting. Karaoke booths! I know that reality shows like Malaysian Idol and Akademi Fantasia is a big hit in Malaysia which influenced its populous… but this? I guess everybody wants a shot to be famous and this is their training ground.
The booths are roughly 4’ X4’. Poorly sound proof since I can hear the people inside singing. The management was thinking of making quick bucks that there’s roughly 20 booths in the middle of a video arcade center. I wasn’t allowed to take photographs plus there are thugs around, so I dare not risk snapping with my camera phone. But if you got the chance to visit downtown Pudu Raya, do visit Kota Raya.
Caring Malaysian?
After sight seeing, I took the LRT to university. Once onboard I was quite surprised to see some vacant seats. Since it’s rush hour and the train is half full, some seats are left vacant (for the needy I assume). Many people decided to stand, and when I say many, the ratio of people sitting and standing is 2:3 More people are standing than sitting. The government has done some serious campaigning on caring Malaysian for a long time and it’s goof to see such efforts fruitful. 3 years ago this situation is unseen of.
Flashback
I can still remember when my dad took the family out for a train ride on the weekend, my grandma has to stand for 2 stops before someone get off the train and gave her the seat. Mind you that those selfish people there that hog the seats are youngsters and some are families with young kids. I just can’t imagine how the parents can be so selfish and morally blind to allow their children and themselves to hog seats and turn a blind eye on a 78 year old grandma. I wouldn’t want to generalize here but that selfish family (2 families in fact) are Chinese.
