What's wrong with Perhentian Islands?

For many Malaysians, they'll think of Perhentian Islands as one of the ideal spots to go for vacation. Sandy beaches, interesting people to meet, a few places with good corals. Wait, just a few? Yeap, that's true as according to the statistics released by Reef Check Malaysia, in 2007, Perhentian has a coral cover of 34% as compared to 50% coral cover at Tioman and Redang. So what seems to be among the causes that has harness the underwater forest?

One simple answer: humans. Last Saturday, Leong Siok Hui wrote in Lifestyle section of The Star newspaper about what are the issue on waste management in Perhentian Islands. As a collaboration with WildAsia, the articles written in the Rethink Travel segment raised concerns about despite the two islands' beauty (Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil), there seems to be a mess that has been brought upon by the following:
i) improper waste management;
ii) bad practise of tourism; and
iii) unsustainable development.
Not that I want to point finger at anyone, but the issues are very challenging that many resort owners, dive centre operators and villagers of Perhentian island would face. I mean what's an island life would be if the environment is not as pretty as it used to be?

To read more on the issue, please do some time reading on the following articles:

• Trouble in Paradise
• Doing Their Part
• What the Experts Say
• What the Authorities Say
  

Revived again!

Damn, I've been away for far too long! Haha.. Ok, for those people who have came to visit my blog, I'm sorry I have disappointed y'all in keeping quiet, but here's a quick update of what's been happening:

• due to the monsoon season, I'm currently based in the WOX head office at Petaling Jaya until February
• working on a project proposal that focus on coral reef conservation (sorry, other information is classified at the moment)
• I'm back at my parents' place in Kota Bharu for the 3 days weekend, which I'll be back in KL by Tuesday morning.

So to make it short, I'm just post up the pics that has been happening after my convocation in July:

By the time I arrived in Tioman, I had my own graduation party with my volunteers as well (well except for the 2 guys there since they were just happened to hang out at the same bar with us).












But I sure am gonna miss the Sri Tioman crew, they've been such a cool bunch to hang out with.












Also, I'm gonna miss Jo, the blind green turtle at Juara.












Then came August that was the biggest group of volunteers I ever had, about 11 of them.












One of the unique activities in Tioman is that you can go surfing as shown by my main man, Sham of the Tioman Cobana. Hang ten!












By September, I went to Perhentian as September was the last batch of volunteers for the Great Sea Turtle Project for the 2008. Together, we have managed to accomplish more than we had projected.
















Then by October, I had the road trip to Johor Bahru, which was really fun.













A couple weeks later, I went along for the company dinner for sushi. Oishi!























Then in mid November, I had the chance to hang out with Pian, Kuan and Adam as you can see in the pic below.













Then by December, Hanu and I participated as judges for the 2008 Royals Inter-Varsity debate that was held at International Islamic University Malaysia.












Then a week after, I went back to my parents' home in Kota Bharu for Aidil Adha celebrations. You can see my parents posing with their 2 hyper active grandkids (my sis' wonder sons).
















Just yesterday, I went to Kuala Terengganu and meet up with Wan, Manu, Aizat and Pashia. It sure was fun and I really had a great kuay teow lunch at Noodle Station.

I finally get my bachelor degree...

The very first day we all enter into any academic institution, whether it would be university or pre-school, we tend to predict of the future events that would or might occur to us. When I first came to KUSTEM (for the freshies, KUSTEM is abbreviated for Kolej Universiti Sains dan Teknologi Malaysia), I kept thinking what were the Malaysians moments that I'm most going to suffer. Mind you that I was brought up with an American system education, I never had the opportunity of what it feels like to get all nervous for the SPM or even the UPSR exams. At the same time, I did thought as to which direction my future was going to stroll upon to. Hours became days, and eventually days fades into months and years, only did I realize as to how I want to direct my life. You may feel like you already what you want to do later after completing your course, or some may still be clueless as to what's going to happen next. My only tip for you all out there is the future will always be a mystery. I know I may sound like Master Oogway from Kung Fu Panda (damn, I still wanna learn that Qushu Squishy Finger technique), but it's very true of the message there. You can never predict fully of what will happen, and make the best out of what you have that is the present.

To my dear family,
Ummi & Abah, thank you for supporting me throughout my life and for understanding my ways as you like to refer to them as "Azimi is just being Belgian". Along, you have been such a role model of what an intellectual is defined as. Bin and Fin, thanks for making my life interesting and being there for me when I'm too egotistic to admit it.

To my whacky and wonderrrrful family in Kuala Terengganu,
You guys have helped me a lot to become a true Malaysian, that is to be proud of the mix ethnicity of our loving country. Hanu, you will always be the fast-topic chatter that has been to help me think twice (by the way, thanks for being there with me during the Royals 2007). Chin, thanks for the times you provide the insights of what a woman feel and helping me see true colors of others (it's amazing I can easily remember your contact number). Kuan, I would have much difficulties in those classes that is taught in BM and for helping me out with the proposal letters if it wasn't for you. Leann, wei taik kau lah! Hehe.. Nah just kidding, but thanks for the times I get to poke on you to help relieve the stress. Anita, my cheerful grand-daughter, you are truly a symbol of what a cheerful person is and thank you for reminding me to be happy no matter what. Muna, although I had a crush on you, I want you to know that I want you to be happy and not be the gloomy gal. Alyn, you're just someone I never thought I would end up being friends with because I thought I wasn't a cool guy for you to hang out, so thanks for teaching me to be more self confident in myself. Ahhh, my homiez (Adam, Azri, Jep & Pian), you guys are amazing! Dudes, I would never have ask for a better group of housemates or roommates than you guys. I'm sorry for the mess I've caused in the house. Cheers to you all!

To my fellow graduates of Universiti Malaysia Terengganu,
I congratulate you all for getting this far and wish you all the best of luck in the coming challenges, events and obstacles that will head your way.

To my fellow juniors,
It is up to you now to carry on the name of our university, and our beloved country to as far as you can reach. Lastly, to everyone of you, I thank you for all the moments and times we all had together.

This is not a goodbye, but rather, hello. Take care y'all. ^_^

P.S.: Enjoy the video!

Orientation to My New Job

Ever since the 15th of May, I am officially a part of the Way Out Experiences (WOX) Sdn. Bhd. family. I've learned so much of my job prospects, and I so can't wait to start my job in Tioman by the 3rd of June. Currently, I'm still in Pulau Perhentian, but I'll be heading to Kuala Lumpur tomorrow night to head over to my company's office in Petaling Jaya and also to one of our projects in Zoo Negara. My dream of enjoying the beach life is now a reality. So I'll just fill in the stuffs that has been happening to me ever since I left Kuala Terengganu about 2 weeks ago.

On the 13th of May, I arrived in Tioman with my colleagues (Fareea, Julie, and Dan) which we were given a tour of the island and exposed as to what activities that will be carried out. At the same time, we all attended the TAT Turtle Sanctuary official opening which the ceremony had ups and downs that aim to educate people on sea turtle conservation. Other than that, I had the opportunity in getting to know more about WOX, and also on the Great Turtle Project. I'll fill in more on that once I have more ample time to do so. By the 18th of May, I went to Pulau Perhentian for me to be exposed as to what my job will be like as a Fascilitator. I met the volunteers, and conduct some activities with them. They really are a wonderful and lively bunch, that makes me even more anxious to meet the volunteers I'll soon be dealing with.

Okie, that's all I wanna say for now. Owh yeah, congrats to UMT English Debate team for reaching the Runner Up place in the Sultan Zainal Abidin Debate Competition that was held in Dungun, Terengganu. It's always great to see that UMP and UMT fighting in the finals other than the cheapskates. On the other note, anybody care to join me for a fruit mix shake on the beach? ;)

Earth Survey Questionnaire ---- Happy Earth Day to All!!! ^_^

For many of us, we are awed by the great nature that is created by Allah. Truly majestic are His creations, that at times we take for granted what we have on earth. Do ya have ever thought about what is that attracts you to the beauty of nature? Well for Jeremy Taylor, this is his quest, to find out on people's perspectives on nature's beauty. He has initiated the Earth Survey, a blog site that displays the answers of respondents to the survey. Of course one person has the right to privacy, so Jeremy wouldn't mind if the person wish to remain anonymous, but he would still need the contact details as part of information.

As we are nearing close to our final days as Marine Biology students of UMT, I do hope that everyone will now consider themselves as environmentalists. I know this may be too much to ask, but I would like to have a moment of your time to please copy and paste the questionaire below, and send them to jeremyjtaylor@ yahoo.com. As I plea to all to please participate with this survey for it would only take a small token of your time. Thank you.....

Am I hearing thunder outside the house? Is it gonna rain today?

-------------START OF SURVEY---------------

Name:

Title/Organization:

Address:

Email address:

Today's Date:

1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?

2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood? What is your favorite place in the great outdoors now?

3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?

4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?

5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?

-------------END OF SURVEY----------------

Rugby... the good old days in the ISM campus.

Damn I miss playing rugby, especially back in ISM (International School of Manila, the high school I graduated from in the Philippines). I wish I didn't get injured on that very last game before heading to KL for the IASAS (Interscholastic Association of Southeast Asian Schools) finals. Owh well, here's a really good video that will bring me the sweet flashback of the high school life.

How to Attract the Woman of Your Dreams

Ok, so my previous post was not that interesting to read and a good example of making someone "bored to sleep". Well, I've decided to post something that is a bit different, and share tips to my fellow men on how to deal with women, and to help women understand a bit more on men (in case they miss a few things about guys). I have to admit, I have not been feeling too well with my heart: i) being criticized heavily on my work; ii) getting into an argument that I wanted to avoid; and iii) to recieve news that would shatter my heart. However, I'm all good now thanks to the help of my close and sweet buddies who really helped me out, and after listening to this one song, "A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes". Thanks for your words of wisdom. So, to all the men out there, do consider about the tips I'm giving out for these are the mistakes I've learned from after the pains I've caused. I hope my dream will come true....

TEN TIPS FOR GUYS TO KNOW ABOUT DEALING WITH WOMEN

Tip #1: Nice Guys Always Finish Last

I think this is true because women always want a guy who has that strong and powerful attraction. So being nice would equate to the guy being a suitable friend. If you do want to get that woman of your dreams, then don’t be too extremely nice. The guy gotta show that he can take things his way, and it does not necessarily to be nice.

Tip #2: Never Convince Her

Men, women not just talk a lot, but they can think for themselves as well. So even though the woman would say that she's not interested, it's better that you do not do the following: beg, plead, chase, or do anything that would deem as a force to change her thinking about you. Better yet, just carry on what ya do and who knows, only then she will take notice.

Tip #3: Asking For Her Permission Or Approval

For most guys, they think it is better to always ask the girl for their approval and permission to do anything or whatsoever. Another bad idea. Why? This would make an indication that the guy is just a wuss. It's good that the guy would ask for the girl's permission, but don't do it like 100% of the time. I'm not saying that we ought to dominate over the woman, but the guy needs to be critical where he makes the right decision by himself rather than to ask for approval or permission. This way, the woman will take notice that the guy is smart and is tactical in thinking.

Tip #4: Trying To "Buy" Her Affection With Food And Gifts

So you bought her some stuffs, treat her for dinner, which is all just sweet and nice. Well, is it? This may not be the suitable choice as the woman would see this as a way for the guy wanting to show that he can "buy" her by getting her all the cool things and yummie meals that she wants. Better yet, do so in a way that you have a reason for it rather than just say, "Oh, I just felt like doing so."

Tip #5: Telling Her "How You Feel" Too Early
So you've been dating with the woman for a couple of times, and you feel that it's right time to tell her that you really, awesomely, truly, madly, deeply (damn I hate that song) like her. After 2 dates? That's a wrong move because an attractive woman would know that you're falling for her too fast, and guys shouldn't do that. If you really want to her to be attracted to you, then take it slow and enjoy the ride. Don't think that being with her is like a hour roller coaster ride, but think of it as a whole month adventure in the jungle.

Tip #6: Women Attracts To Men Differently Than Men Do

For most guys, they attract to the woman based upon her looks and overall appearance. This could be her sweet face, the view from the back, or even how sexy she wears. Well this is what guys need to know, women are more attractive to guys that are not based on their looks. Fine the guy maybe cute, but the women wants something else. Do I know it? Certainly not because all women have different needs. So it's all depends on the woman. If the guy really wants the woman to be attracted to him, then the guy needs to find the one she's very attracted to that is not physically.

Tip #7: Thinking It Only Takes Money and Looks

For many guys, they tend to give up so easily because they feel that the women wants a guy who looks handsome, has all the money in the world, or is old enough. Most women would disagree because they want a guy who can understand them. The looks and all are just the added bonus, but they want the guy who also has good personality traits. Easily to be hot tempered is so a major turn off, so guys, please control your anger and especially your ego. Be a gentleman and show that you can be the most understanding guy she ever wants.

Tip #8: Giving Away All Of Your Power To Women

Going back to tip #3, it's not a good idea to always seek for her approval or permission. Also, it's not a good idea to let do whatever she wants all the time. For example, the guy wants to take the woman out for dinner. The woman can't decide where to and the guy goes on saying that he'll go wherever she wants to go. This is what the guy should avoid doing, instead he should come up with a suggestion and let her enjoy what the guy feels best. Again, this is not something the guy want to dominate over women, but to stand on our own two feet and show them how to enjoy a good time.

Tip #9: Being Clueless On Exactly What To Do In Each Situation With Women

This is a fact, women are TEN TIMES better in reading the guy's body language. Thus, a guy needs to know how to handle the situation with precision, speed, and ease. For example, the woman wants to buy bus ticket for her friend (which her friend asked her to get for her). The woman couldn't decide which bus operator to buy from, and the guy is there tagging along with her. In this situation, the guy can help her out by going through other bus operators and find which bus operator provides the most reliable time of departure. Don't be clueless or else the woman will think that you are of no help at all.

Tip #10: Not Asking For Help

This is just the main thing about men, we don't tend to ask for help most of the time. For guys, they feel that asking for help is a sign to show that we are just weak and just plain helpless. IF the guy needs help, then ask for it. Don't be shy because that's not gonna solve anything. For example, if you feel that you are having a hard time doing an assignment and that you don't want her to help out, then it's a wrong mistake. Ask for her help as well and get the input from her. The guy can also ask help from other sources as well, and should be self-confident to ask.

Carbon Dioxide as Raw Materials?

Okie, before I go on, I wish to take this moment to apologize for the long silence with my post. Now that I'm into my last month of my studies, I was busy with assignments, lab reports, presentations, and of course, my thesis. Well I've done the first three, but I still got the thesis to work on for the final presentationg and publishing. So all the best of luck to everyone who will be taking their exams! ^_^ Anyway.....

Ever wondered exactly what does mineral water bottle or DVD are made of? Answer: polycarbonate plastics. On to the next question, is it possible to extract the carbon dioxide from smokestack (as in those big smokes coming out of those huge chimneys)? And use that carbon dioxide as a raw material for polycarbonate plastics? If ya answered NO, then that information was so yesterday (well actually off by a week).

How I came to stumble with this information? Well it all started when I wanted to check my email last night, and I recieved a message from the Marine Biology International yahoo group. The message provided a link on a news article about US government spying on environmental groups. I found the article quite interesting and I pondered to the thought of the harsh espionage treatment an environmental conservationist would get. Afterwards, I decided to check out the news site, Mother Jones, and they have such interesting articles on current issues ranging from politics to blogs. Then I decided to look up into the Environmental & Health section, which led me to the article that really got my jaw dropped. The title reads out, "Lock Up CO2 In DVDs."

According to the article, during the 235th American Chemical Society National Meeting held in New Orleans last week, Prof. Thomas E. Müller and Dr. Toshiyasu Sakakura conduct a press conference that discussed about their research, "DVDs and CD-Roms that Thwart Global Warming," on how carbon dioxide can be use as raw materials for the polycarbonates plastics. According to Prof. Thomas Müller, he mentioned how carbon dioxide is so abundant as a raw material and that this method can help to reduce the carbon dioxide emission. Although this may sound good news, I would have to agree with Julia Whitty, Mother Jones's environmental correspondent, as she quote:
"Good idea: make polycarbonates from waste CO2.
Better idea: make less pollution and less polycarbonate plastics."

So exactly how would the carbon dioxide be collected? Well I went for further reading and I stumble upon this article from MSNBC, "Remove CO2 from air? Experts working on it - One approach uses lye to absorb greenhouse gas." The article mentions of two mechanisms: i) to suck out the air and have the carbon dioxide react with lye to turn into limestone and then sublimed (making solid turn into gas) back into gas; ii) to use solar heat to extract the carbon dioxide; and iii) similar method in number two but to use electrochemistry instead. Frank Zeman from Columbia University described the use of his device to direct the air through a chamber and is react with lye (sodium hydroxide) which will absorb the carbon dioxide into liquid form. Afterwards, the liquified carbon dioxide is mixed with lime to produce limestone, which is later baked in a kiln (which is like an oven) to release and then store the carbon dioxide. These methods are still in the experimental phase, but are still hopeful to yield much benefits in the future.

Environmental issues ought to be included in the manifestos.

The election has been concluded with the BN winning a simple majority, and the silent voices of many have protested in voting for the opposition. I don't wish to state my personal opinion of the politics scenario for I have no CREDIBILITIES to say what is right or wrong in the politics (yes, I do feel silly for having to write the previous post). Both sides of the politic arena would throw words at each other trying to make themselves look better than the other. However, this sort of manner should not take place if Malaysians wish to accomplish themselves as a developed nation.

It is human nature that any individual or group would have both friend and foe. With friends, one would feel in comfort and have respect for one another. With a foe, we let anger take over and thus causing our bad side be revealed. One fighting for the cause of others, accusing each other on the lack of good qualities, and obvious of all, wanting to prove their worth for the sake of development in the country. As I try to disciplined myself to be a faithful environmentalist, I am saddened by the fact that none of the manifestos brought up by any politicial parties focused upon the environmental issues. Of course some Malaysians would inquire "what for?", and some would not hesitate to reply "who cares". Now that Malaysia has been elected with a new form of government, the Malaysian Environmental NGO (MENGO) have issued a statement they wish the new government to focus upon. The statement focus upon the following:

1) National policies, laws, acts, and all form of legislative enactments (especially concerning with the environment) should be reviewed for the benefit of the environment of both fauna and flora.

2) Fragile and sensitive environmental areas needs to be secured for preservation.

3) Indigenous people (referring to Orang Asli) needs to be given proper treatment, respect and justice so that they are treated as an equal in accordance to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of the Indigeneous Peoples (UNDRIP).

4) Public would have better access to environment information and NGOs would have more participation and their opinions would be considered more seriusly.

5) More awareness needs to be addressed through the education sector (i.e. primary to tertiary education).

6) Developing and implementing policies and practices that focus on sustainable use in all sectors.

7) Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States of America needs to have proper consideration from the public and from NGO if FTA is needed and to study its' environmental impacts.

8) Exercise and conduct an effective and proper waste management and reduce the effect of trash.

9) National Biosafety Act and obligations agreed in the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety be enforced and implemented.

10) Renewable resources needs to be more focused upon and combat the rise of Green House Gases (GHG) in the country.

and

11) To ensure the par treatment in gender equality and equity as a sign of the first step in sustainable development which will be noted in all levels of decision making and implementation.

This is what the Malaysian Environmental NGOs want from the new government, and it's time that environmental issues needs to addressed more often and be handled for the sake of the country's future. Put aside the differences, and focus on the work that needs to be done. Malaysia Boleh!

Gong Xi Fa Choy!

First of all, I would like to spend the time to wish to all of my Chinese friends and Chinese everywhere a blissful and prosperous Chinese New Year. Gong xi fa choy! ^_^

Okie, wanna play a game? Try this one, what can ya tell me that's not right in this picture?
So you think you got the answer? Well for some, they would see one (which I'll explain a bit later). However, I'll go to the unnoticeable, yet most obvious mistake in this picture. Politically, this banner is wrong for the PAS (Pan-Malayan Islamic Party). Why? Well the PAS accused UMNO (United Malays National Organisation) as infidels in trying to demote the Islamic and Malay values toward the Malays (Utusan, 2001). By saying so, the PAS really should wake up and smell the roses that Malaysia is shared by all races, I mean they don't even see eye-to-eye with DAP (Democratic Action Party, an political opposition party headed by non-Muslims). If they say that UMNO are a bunchof infidels, then PAS shouldn't be putting up banners like this. It just contradicts to their principles of being an Islamic party, and that one of them is to reject all grounds of faith. So in other words, they shouldn't be out to wish the Chinese community a Happy New Year.

What's the other mistake? Well it's the typical grammar error that most Malays would do when it come to spelling.

"YEARS OF THE RATS"? Lim Kit Siang must be shaking his head in disgust if he ever sees this poster.

Dear Anonymous...

Notice the message above?

Well in my assumption, only someone who has nil gut of confronting Prof. Chan would comment in such a way that the person does not wish to identify herself/himself. I don't wish to react this in frustration, but I do feel the pityness that comes out from this comment. Whoever this person is, does not realize as to what Prof. Chan wants to teach to the student. As a university student, we ought to find the information by ourselves rather than being spoon feed by many lecturers. It is a fact that MANY students in UMT would just ask the lecturer of the class straight for questions that would appear directly in the final exams all for the lame excuse of having "a high cgpa (Cumulative Grade Point Average)." If Prof. Chan wanted to give an exam that according to Anonymous here being "as if we're all professors", then wouldn't it be obvious that she would inquire the student with difficult questions as to more in-depth thinking (for example: Does the Convention of Biological Diversity be sufficient enough to enforce Third World nations to carry out restrictions on endangered wildlife trade in their territories)?

Whoever you are, you really need to wake up and smell the roses. If you can't handle Prof. Chan, then you ought to be careful of your future employers. At least with Prof. Chan, she was willing to spend her time to educate the students about marine conservation. Prof. Chan has other priorities which she needs to fulfill other than to get comments where the student does not appreciate her efforts. Shame on you Anonymous!

Transformers Sequel?

Laughter is the best medicine. That is utterly true as people who live a long lasting life tend to be in good humour. So for those who just wanna have some good laughs, enjoy a few laughs with this clip:



I'm not sure about you, but I'm quite certain that the live-action Tansformers movie released last summer left me a few disappointments in my heart. I guess I expected too much out of the movie to be all perfect with interesting storyline and logical mechanical physics with the robots. Anyway, I just hope the upcoming Incredible Hulk movie won't be as bad as it was in 2003. :P

An Inconvenient Truth

Yesterday for the Law & Policy of Aquatic Resources class, the lecturer, Ms. Zahaitun, brought a VCD to have the students watch Al Gore's "An Inconvenient Truth". It was quite suprising as I thought it would be another day of lecture. For some, it would probably their first time viewing the documentary. As for me, well I've seen it more than a couple of times since I've already downloaded the movie. The facts that Al Gore presented were logical enough to raise eyebrows as to why the current administration in the US are not ratifying the Kyoto Protocol. Then again, do the students in that class seem to understand as to why the US are reluctant to do so?

To understand their perspectives, it's common sense that one must research for answers. So for the sake of those who wish to understand American's arguments to this case, do read on.

Economy
The US fears that by signing the Kyoto Protocol, the economy would be heavily affected. This is true since the biggest world trade partner consume the highest amount of energy. President Bush puts the national economy first as he understands that the benefits of the Kyoto Protocol does not outweight the cost. In doing so, he also argues that the Kyoto Protocol leaves too much errors and there is lack of justification with the policy.

Fairness
We all helplessly believe in democracy, and that everyone is born equal and should be treated fairly. However, this does not apply in the Kyoto Protocol as it promote unfairness among UN member countries. The Kyoto Protocol has exempted China and India from fulfilling the agreements that was set in the treaty. President George Bush argued:

"This is a challenge that requires a 100% effort; ours, and the rest of the world's. The world's second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases is the People's Republic of China. Yet, China was entirely exempted from the requirements of the Kyoto Protocol. India and Germany are among the top emitters. Yet, India was also exempt from Kyoto … America's unwillingness to embrace a flawed treaty should not be read by our friends and allies as any abdication of responsibility. To the contrary, my administration is committed to a leadership role on the issue of climate change … Our approach must be consistent with the long-term goal of stabilizing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere."
The Whitehouse (2001-06-11). President Bush Discusses Global Climate Change. Press release.

So as we can see here, the US would never ratify unless they are assured that the developing countries would carry out the responsibilities as well. However, there are some developing countries that still has not ratify the Kyoto Protocol such as Brunei, Taiwan, and Turkey. With their beliefs in democracy, the US will never ratify the Protocol.

Plan of Action
Just because the Kyoto Protocol has not been ratify, doesn't necessarily mean the US are not committed to reduce their carbon emission. The US has established some efforts to held talks in multilateral terms with Asian-Pacific countries like Australia, China, India, Japan and South Korea. Together, they have come to an agreement in producing the Asia Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate. Initiated in January of 2006, this agreement focus on clean energy capacity building and market formation. The difference this agreement has over the Kyoto Protocol is that each of the members are allowed to carry out their greenhouse gas emissions individually without any mechanism of enforcement. Due to this fact, many has criticized the credibility of this agreement and that this is nothing but to neglect the call of ratifying the Kyoto Protocol.

New Year with New Hopes...

It's past New Year's, and this is the first blog of the year. Which year? Well both actually, the Gregorian calendar (year 2008) and the Islamic calendar (year 1429). Last year has been quite interesting as the rest with both high and low moments. The sweetest high of the year would be me finally being close in Berry's heart. The 2nd high would be the fact me getting the job at Way Out Experiences Sdn. Bhd.. (I'll be working in Tioman by May). The lowest? It would definitely have to be me breaking off with Laila for good. Finally I can close the book on that story and never to be heard from her again (unless she breaks her own rule).

About the job, well I'll be working in Pulau Tioman assisting with a chap name John Amos, who is the Managing Director of the Juara Lagoon & Resort. He has established the first sea turtle hatchery there, and it is my task to assist him in improving the hatching rate of the sea turtles nests and aiming to establish a few more hatcheries. At the same time, I'll be dealing with the volunteers from the UK in conducting the marine conservation activities and of course helping them to enjoy themselves under the sun in Tioman. Other than carrying out my work, I do hope I can use this oppurtunity to use the area as my study site for my Master's. I'm thinking Prof. Chan will still be around to supervise me on that. Hehe.. ;P

As the year 2008 welcomes the Year of the Rat, I just hope this will be another good year for me. Of the things that has happened in the past, it's best to leave them be and just enjoy the present while daydreaming of the future. Ice tea anybody?