Guide to Cost of Getting in Singapore

I just got married earlier this year, and it is after 2 years of planning that we finally tied our knot.

Before we even started planning, we were full of question marks especially financially. Like how much is sufficient for the type of wedding we wanted.
Of course, everyone have their dream of having a fairytale-like wedding but trust me, money will weigh your shoulders down and pull you from fairytale to reality.

As a rule of thumb, every couple should respect their financial status and strike a balance between having their dream wedding and spending as they can afford.

There is simply no point of you to exhaust your savings or even go into debt just to make sure you get married to impress everyone else and making everyone happy except the two of you.

I hope this guide I am creating serves as an indication, but please note this should not be THE ONLY POINT OF REFERENCE. It took my wife and I months of research and homework, tons of discussions and respect and of course, endless effort and accommodation before we finally got ready for our big day. In short, you have to put in effort for your big day.

List of Items
Some of the items you need, some you don’t. It’s entirely subjected to each individual couple needs, wants and desire.
Let’s start with the very first ‘Point of Contact’.

Proposal Ring (For the MAN) – From S$1,000 and above
To be honest, there is no boundaries on both the lower and upper limit. Afterall, this is THE RING that is supposed to get you your wife (excluding that the BTO that both of you have already applied). The fact that I points to S$1000 is because at the very least, you ought to make sure your proposal ring is decent (more expensive that than wedding band that you are going to get in future). WOMAN goes crazy over the carat whereas there’s more to that diamond ring – colour, cut, ring size etc. Do your research and if possible, get hints from your potential wife on her liking before you make this investment. Someone once told me, a proposal ring should cost you 3 months of your salary, but to me, I believe it’s about striking a balance of what you can afford and what she would like.

TIPS: There are many aspects of the diamond ring that cannot be seen with a naked eye. If there’s any factor to consider when buying, fortunately or unfortunately, it’s the CARAT. Other factors can potentially be secondary, depends on you. That way, some cost can be saved, if you get what I mean.

Wedding Package – From S$3,000 to S$6,000
This should include things like Wedding Gowns, Groom’s Attires, Actual Photo-shoot, Photo Album and Photo Frames.

Some companies offer more perks and items, some offer less. Basic local photo-shoot with the basic choice of gowns and attires should cost a couple the region of S$3,000. Going overseas to shoot (such as Taiwan, Korea, Indonesia) will cost you more. Of course, there are couples who engages the services for overseas shoot and rental of gowns and attires separately got their wedding photo-shoot and those would cost A LOT more, depending on the destination and the number of gowns and attire rented.

TIPS: With competition so tight for business in this field/area, you are almost in an advantage. Therefore, negotiation is a MUST to save. Sometimes, it’s not just discount but do negotiate by asking for a higher number of photos, additional attire/gowns, more locations etc. All these items are cost and sometimes, they are able to give you if you ask in order to secure your business. Especially the number of photos. Remember, selling you additional photos are how they/photographers earn too and these photos aren’t cheap. They can cost between S$50 to over S$100 over photo, so, think thrice about it.

Guo Da Li (过大礼) – From S$100 to S$300
This is very dependent on the families of both sides and of course based on the respective tradition. Common betrothal packages are available. do your research online to check what's included.

Bride Price (聘金) – From $188 to S$8,888
This is subjected to after discussion with the bride's parents. Amount have to be decent and presentable, at the same time, considering the financial situation of the Groom side as well.

Wedding Bands – From S$1,500 to S$4,000
Imagine buying a proposal ring but this time, multiply by you because it’s buying for both the husband and wife to be. Usually, wedding bands cost cheaper than proposal ring because of the lack or smaller/poorer quality of diamonds on the wedding bands. The trend as it seems is many are going for Pure Silver with some couples even going for exotic colour such as rose gold with engravings etc. This is something you are going to wear for life, so be prepared to see scratches on your ring within just months from your wedding so that you won’t freak down on spending grands and then feeling all heartpain.

TIPS: Find something simpler which simply equates to cheaper as well. Afterall, one won’t want to be wearing expensive ring every day and doing chores or attending meeting with those blings. There are some ladies who wear their proposal ring with wedding band as well, therefore, they purposely chose a very simple wedding band to complement the proposal ring. You decide.

Videography/Video-grapher - From S$1,000 to S$4,000
Such service has its variety. It range to a simple day shoot to a carefully plotted script and videoshoot which involves both pre and actual wedding.

Some couples wants to capture only the actual day moment, whereas some would want to incorporate some essence and meaning even from the pre wedding onwards leading up to the actual day.

Wedding Solemnization – From S$1,500 to S$5,000
The items will include rental of gown, attire, venue, photographer and decoration. The cost actually differs depending on the number of pax attending your ROM and the style. The higher the number, the most expensive it will be, which equates to you having to book a larger space and catering more food/cocktail reception to it. Photographer price varies too. They can range from S$500 for semi-pro photographer to over S$1,500 for a very professional one. Lots of venue/cafes/restaurants host ROM and they do offer packages on that, therefore, it would be wise to check their inclusions to see if it fits your requirements. Of course, those on the lower budget, simply pop in to ROM and register, followed by a cost luncheon etc.

TIPS: Combine your ROM with your wedding banquet in the same day if you want/need. That way, you definitely save cost. However, if the both of you still decide that you want to hold them separately, discuss well on what are the style you want and how simple/grand you want it to be, and of course, DECIDE the number of pax attending. Usually, ROM should be a cosier affair than the banquet.

Wedding Car Rental – From S$200 to S$5,000
From the rental of an ordinary sedan car which would potentially cost you the region of S$200 to rental of Rolls Royce for that few hours which cost the upper limit, you decide.

TIPS: The amount of time you are going to spend on that rented car are almost second to none. You will probably be thinking on 'what's next' before you even get to enjoy the air-con of the rented car. Most likely, it's for 'photograph or video' sake. If possible, borrow a car from someone you know at a friendship price, if possible, at your own risk, of course.

Wedding Banquet – From S$20,000 to S$70,000
Can you see the vast difference in price? Basically, the price range is due to two main factors – number of pax and the venue. If you are rich and can afford, St Regis, Fullerton, Capella are always there for you, or if you are on the tighter budget, you can try nice Chinese restaurants. The number of pax does affect, imagine the difference of 20 tables and 30 tables, that’s a whopping 100 pax. Imagine the cost per pax estimated to be between $80 to $150 per pax, that’s like $8,000 to $15,000 difference. So be wise, know who you want to invite, ask for your parents’ consultation as well because it’s going to involve relatives and their friends (sometimes) as well.

Some couples may try and do fanciful stuff such as photo booth, candy car, live bands as well, which will significantly add up to the total damage to your wedding banquet. Of course, couples do get red packets back, but subject to family and tradition customs, some couples get to offset the banquet entirely, some partially whereas some don’t. Therefore, do consider all that when selecting your venue and deciding it.

TIPS: Do your maths and do it very well. For those couples who get to keep the red packets, make sure you 'forecast' the amount you potentially can get. Singaporeans are rather 自动 when it comes to giving red packets, except for a few, so if you are able to 'forecast' well against your spendings, you should be able to reduce your financial burden significantly.

Honeymoon – From S$1,000 and above
It depends on where the both of you wants to travel. There are some couple who spend so much on their wedding that they compromise on their honeymoon. Cheaper destinations such as Bali, Boracay cost cheaper. Whereas some couples scrimp and spend as necessary for their wedding so that they can splurge and indulge big on their wedding by flying to destinations such as Maldives, USA, Europe etc.

Additional Information
I included these items for reference only. Some couples engage/do it, some don't. Entirely up to you.

Pre Marriage Screening – From S$200 and 600
It’s not a situation where I don’t trust you, so you better get it check. To some, it’s a responsibility to make sure you are healthy, and also to some, it’s part of family planning. Whatever it is, this serves as a peace of mind and also an assurance to each other to commit to/for the future.

Brothers & Sisters Attire – From S$200 to S$1000
Couples nowadays are just getting more creative. Some couples have as many as 10 brothers and 10 sisters, whereas some would prefer keeping it simple. Also to match wedding theme, some couples even wanted their brothers and sisters to wear matching clothes and attire. Basically, the cost should be indicative and reflective of price of an ordinary attire anyway.

TIPS: Some clothes cost cheaper when buying wholesale and/or online. Do your homework and you might just get savings.

So at the very least, you need approx S$30,000 cash per couple to get married and go for a honeymoon. Of course, this lower limit is just an indication, not including those red packets you might get back to. Couples who do get back their red packets usually get anywhere between 50% to over 100%, depending on the venue and 'types' of guest you are inviting too.

Photoshoot in Taiwan

Leaving on a jet plane on 19 September 2013, the feeling back then hides a little tiredness, probably due to the lack of sleep just because the flight at 7 plus in the morning and we had to make our way there at around 5 plus. For a night owl like me, that’s not easy to take. But somehow, that tiredness feeling was comforted by the presence of my wife-to-be, knowing the fact that we are about to go through what we have been waiting for, while at the same time, worried for the uncertainty such as the typhoon.

8 days trip can be very briefly summarized into one word, memorable. Of course, being our bridal shoot trip, we had expectations, especially after our first trip to Taiwan around 2 years ago. Flight, as usual, on a budget airplane, time would be more well spent sleeping. And we literally slept through our 4 hour plus journey enroute to Taipei.

Reaching Taipei brought us a tint of familiarity. The trip 2 years ago must have brought alive these imaginary anticipation that literally keeps me even more upbeat for my trip. Bought our prepaid SIM card (we definitely couldn’t live without one nowadays) and off we went to our long High Speed Rail to Kaoh Siung, where we were slated to have our wedding shoot done there/nearby.

The rail ride was like a scene plucked off from a Taiwanese romance movie, as I’m sitting by the window, sipping on my hot tea while the train zooms past the wide varieties of farms and scenery.  And in no time, we arrived Kaoh Siung. It was nothing like Taipei, much quieter, more serene and definitely less crowded. With my bulky luggage and her not so bulky luggage, we dragged them all the way to our hotel, Hotel Dua. 

With much expectation, we checked in like eagered kids, excited to know if the hotel room is indeed what we have seen from photos all around the website. And true enough, the hotel room feels luxurious. Dim lightings with nice room décor made us the only king and queen in our room for the next 2 nights. 

Blame it on our planning, we were rushing literally the entire day, just to make sure we had enough time for HER gown choosing and fitting. Of course, as you would have expected it, that wasn’t done in minutes but hours, especially when the one choosing is my wife-to-be. As we continued with our attire choosing and discussions with the photographer, the news of an expected typhoon continued to weigh in on us, leaving having to prayed the entire night and checking in the news channels even until wee hours of the night. I swear to god that I have never checked the weather forecast so often like how I was doing, every few minutes!

The DAY finally arrived and we rushed to the bridal studio. Sky’s dark but it’s not raining. We were given a crossroad decision and in the end, we decided to go ‘SAFE THAN SORRY’. Photoshoot was tiring, and it definitely didn’t help when my nose suddenly decided to pull a prank on me. My fiancée of course, look gorgeous. I have never seen her in such THICK makeup before and to be very honest, I loved it. After all, makeup is created for WOMEN for a reason, isn’t it. Deep down inside, I’m saying to myself ‘You should have put more make up more often right?’, even though I know she’s beautiful the way she likes it to me. Poor on her, the sun shone brightly that day and her hair and perspiration was her enemy while I struggled with my nose. And at last, we shot our last scene in the studio and off we went for a great feast at the nearest night market.

There is just something amazing about night market that always make me feel so excited like a boy to go roam around and tasting food very freely. That night, was the first night we slept real well and nice. A much needed one in fact because after this, we were going to Tai Chung!

Sadly, the typhoon arrived and disrupted some of our plans. Before the trip, I was struggling whether to bring the girl to Sun Moon Lake or Cing Jing Farm but now, god has plans for us, NEITHER. Typhoon made us worried about our plans to rent a car for some good driving time. In the end, guts told me I should not waste the International Driving Permit I registered prior to the trip. We rented, checked in Beacon Hotel much to her disappointment. Somehow, the hotel room I stayed is a vast difference from what I had stayed with my parents 1 year ago. But, I’m glad Tai Chung night market made up for it. More shopping was done here and this is definitely the place to shop and eat at night, no wonder this is my favorite night market in Taiwan.

Driving in Taiwan or specifically Tai Chung is indeed an experience. Taiwanese are generally nice, well-mannered and gentle people but drivers there sucks big time. They reminded me Singapore drivers, which unknowingly made me, drive like how I drove in Singapore. We visited the hometown of Sun Cakes and bought boxes back for families and friends. Seriously, don’t leave Tai Chung without buying them.

And so, we leave Tai Chung bound for Tai Pei in a much heavier luggage. By then, fiancée’s luggage is already almost full and of course, regretting not getting a bigger luggage which I DID advised her. And of course, you guessed it, I was mocking her throughout the trip about the luggage. Tai Pei was a much familiar place to us. Went to our facourite parts of Tai Pei such as Hu Xu Zhang (the always so yummy braised pork rice), Shi Da, Shi Lin night market etc, and of course, not forgetting new places this time, such as the Villa 32 for some nice hot spring, themed restaurant (A380 themed restaurant) and Wu Lao Guo after some recommendations by my colleagues.

We bade goodbye to Taiwan with a familiar sad goodbye because each and every vacation to us meant to much. Every vacation to us, never fails and always bonds us together. It reminded us why we were together, and the time spent together always allows us to care for each other in a different way as how we do it back in Singapore. So one could really understand the post syndrome we faced when we are back in Singapore and it will usually take us days and sometimes weeks to face reality.

It's month since we are back, and definitely, we acknowledge the reality now and we are definitely on route to our dream, our future, as husband and wife.

Food for Thought

Yea, it's been awhile since I last pen something in this remote space. 

As usual, I have been busy with work, and basically preparing for my big day. 

Nothing has ever been placed with such huge importance as compared to this. 

Yes it is fun, but definitely tiring. Thanks to my beloved fiancee, she does most of the work and I must say I am lucky that she's doing most of it because she simply enjoys doing them.

And so, life has been nothing short of fun, and as I'm typing away happily in my cost hotel room in Abu Dhabi, it's wee hours in Singapore while it's a mere late night over here.

心血来潮, which probably explains why I'm penning this post at such hour.

As I took the 'full of turbulence' plane just now, something hit me. I pretty much enjoy the turbulence just now because it feels like a 'rocking chair' especially when I'm cramped in such a narrow economy class seat surrounded by noisy kids. 

Something dawned on me. What if that flight was the last place I took my last breathe? What will I left behind? How many people will weep? What happen to the many happy things I have yet to do? Precisely, that's how precious life is, not just mine.

It is very true when people say cherish your loved ones while they are still around. I reminded myself from time to time how I should be nicer to my loved ones, especially my mum after what she has gone through since young. I don't want to wait until the day when I stand beside that unwanted scene I imagine now and regretting the many things I FAILED to do. I don't want to bring my regret and guilt along with me as I continue to live my life.

To me, life is all about now, and near future. I get to embrace this fact more, day by day. As I grew older, commitments increase and I definitely feel the need for me to harness the role I'm expected of, to love people around me the way they should be love.

Just in case, for whatever reasons, I just want to share with my loved one who might or might not be reading this that I love you guys more than I can express and I hope with time, I can close that gap between my thoughts and my actions just to make sure life continues to be wonderful than how it is now.

Good Men Gone Early

Many people said, that good men always died earlier, of course, in comparison with the bad ones. 

Take the case of the recent departure (death) of local long time actor, Huang Wen Yong. A humble guy and definitely a very dedicated actor who dedicated his entire life to his second home. His death, mourned by many, came as a sudden news, an unexpected one yet, it sent a tinging message on how fragile life can be, how uncertain the future can be. 

His case of course, is a common case. A common case of cancer, which by no means, departure would mean a much easy path to take, one that could prove a relief.

But what about those who have to depart this wonderful world with a choice. A choice but forced. Here I chanced upon something my brother shared with me, and greatly felt by myself when I read it. It wrote..

"On Nov 10, 2009, German international goalkeeper Robert Enke said goodbye to his wife Teresa and gave his 10-month-old daughter a kiss on the forehead. He left the house, saying he was going to train with his club, Hannover 96. It was a lie.

There was no training that day. Instead, he drove around in his car for eight hours. Finally, he came to a railway crossing – and stepped out in front of an express train. 

His suicide, at the age of 32, was the culmination of a long struggle with depression – a trajectory described in a new and moving book, A Life Too Short: The Tragedy of Robert Enke, by Ronald Reng (Yellow Jersey, £16.99), which is published this week.

Enke had intended to collaborate on a biography with Reng; after his death, the writer realised why: “When his career was over, he would finally be able to talk about his illness. 

"In our achievement-oriented society a goalkeeper, the last bastion in defence, can’t be a depressive. So Robert summoned up a huge amount of strength to keep his depression secret. He locked himself away in his illness.” 

Statistically, depression affects one in 10 adults at any one time, and severe or clinical depression will probably hold one in 20 people in its grip."

This is the best example of what I meant by a forced choice. 

So, life is fragile. Cherish it while you STILL can. Live it to the fullest, even if it means going through the bad times because you never know, when is rainbow going to come. 

PS: For my loved ones, I LOVE YOU (you know who you are).

Just For Laughs

A guy calls a company and orders their 5-day, 10 lb. weight loss program.The next day, there's a knock on the door and there stands before him a voluptuous, athletic, 19 year old babe dressed in nothing but a pair of Nike running shoes and a sign around her neck. She introduces herself as a representative of the weight loss company. 

The sign reads, "If you can catch me, you can have me."Without a second thought, he takes off after her. A few miles later huffing and puffing, he finally gives up. The same girl shows up for the next four days and the same thing happens. On the fifth day, he weighs himself and is delighted to find he has lost 10 lbs. as promised.He calls the company and orders their 5-day/20 pound program. 

The next day there's a knock at the door and there stands the most stunning, beautiful, sexy woman he has ever seen in his life. She is wearing nothing but Reebok running shoes and a sign around her neck that reads, "If you catch me you can have me". Well, he's out the door after her like a shot. This girl is in excellent shape and he does his best, but no such luck. So for the next four days, the same routine happens with him gradually getting in better and better shape.Much to his delight on the fifth day when he weighs himself, he discovers that he has lost another 20 lbs. as promised. 

He decides to go for broke and calls the company to order the 7-day/50 pound program"Are you sure?" asks the representative on the phone. "This is our most rigorous program.""Absolutely," he replies, "I haven't felt this good in years."The next day there's a knock at the door; and when he opens it he finds a huge muscular guy standing there wearing nothing but pink running shoes and a sign around his neck that reads, "If I catch you, your ass is mine.

"He lost 63 pounds that week."

Gone Were The Days

As I began preparing for the most important day of my life, I can't help but venture my mind a little bit forward, beyond that, to imagine starting a family. The thought of having my own child makes me smile. Imagining how I would play with him or her, how I would shower him or her with tons of pecks and hugs or even getting him or her to sleep on top of me, that's definitely something that is heart-warming.

With that in mind, I yearn to give the best of everything in my best ability. But at times, I got discouraged. And it is such times that smashed my heart-warming thoughts away. 

I remember growing up in an environment where growing up is fun.I remember taking bus from Bukit Panjang to Singapore General Hospital on bus service 190, which is still operating the similar route now. Back then, seats were never an issue, and my father did not have to worry about my safety as I would be seated on the inside with him beside me. 

Reality hit me hard as I grew older. I see more and more foreign people. I see more and more accidents everyday. I witness how my favorite waffles increase its price by nearly 100%. Singapore now is no longer the Singapore I knew when I was young. When I was young, my teacher taught me about racial harmony, about the harmonious relationships we should keep among the 4 races. But now, I wonder what the school will teach my child/children in future. Is it going to be nationalist harmony, about having harmonious relationships with people from all over the world, like maintaining a good friendship with people from 8-10 countries?

That's beside the point. The point is, Singapore is no longer suitable for Singaporeans. In fact, anyone can be SINGAPOREAN now. So what if you are not a valid pure Singapore Citizen? As long as you managed to get pass that customs, you get to enjoy full fledged daily necessities at the same cost Singaporeans all pay. As such, the non-stringent 'checks' on potential visitors causes unnecessary troubles to our home land, resulting in gradual diminishing sense of belonging I once held dearly. 

Never mind if I'm suffering. Daily rants from me being late because of the inconsistent traffic conditions caused by numerous motorized vehicles on the road. Being a driver myself, I felt that this whole tax scheme placed via various methods on us drivers are indeed scheming. These schemes were never meant to be solutions but just a facade with hidden agenda. Working in the automotive industry makes me further realized how unfair the car purchase system is in Singapore.

What I am worried about is the uncertainty that future holds. Migration, which seems the most convenient way out of this deep well prove difficult because there are simply just too much at stake. Asking me to share with my foreign counterparts on how great Singapore is, how awesome the food here are, is like asking me to join a debate that supports the notion "Fried food is healthy". 

This uncertainty caused me to fear that my child/children will not longer to be able to enjoy the childhood I was enjoyed. Already technology has taken away a huge chunk of their supposed livelihood, and now, those uncalled for policies just further add to the wreath of their childhood. I just hope some day, some one or even some group is able to twist this whole idea, and make Singapore how we once hope and wish for.  

There’s a Child is Everyone

Pardon me on this rather random topic. A thought struck me moments earlier that prompt me to pen this never before post. Perhaps, that thought faithfully brought me back to my childhood for a moment, and subsequently leading me through a imaginary journey of toys, cartoons, games and what not.

There's a Child in Everyone

I am a firm believer that there is a child in everyone. I remember when I was younger, alongside with my brother, we owned tons of toys, bought lovingly by families and relatives who doted so much on us. But, both of us were not the only ones armed with these entertainments, my mum had one too, initially. Then it grew to two and eventually to a collection of a few. And her collection, Barbie Doll.

Mummy's Favourite Toy!

At that tender age, I could not apprehend why my mother has a toy too herself. It was not when I grew up into my teens that I realized the child is her caused her to own that Barbie Doll only when she was an adult, of course, this was accompanied by a history. She was poor when she was young, and toys then were considered a luxury. By that purchase she made for herself when she was an adult, I instantly linked it to the fact on how badly she wished she had that Barbie Doll when she was younger. I remembered how sternly she warned us not to touch her toys (all because she knew how boys would strip that Barbie off her clothes and bite her hair off like a dinosaur).

Looking back now, I too realized my mother was not the only person who expressed the child in her. Even my grandpa did. I am not sure if it has anything to do with his aging condition, but he too behaves like a child at times. Perhaps, with the cycle of having being taken care of as a child by parents, to caring for his own children as a parent and eventually back to being care of as an adult by his own children and grandchildren, it is natural.

Back to the highlight of this post, I thought hard to myself in my childhood, along with my playmate and friends, I did really enjoyed my childhood, and too, unknowingly bring along those interests with me, even until today. 

Childhood - Those Carefree Days...

From Power Rangers to Digimon, from Baa Baa Black Sheep to Pokemon, you name it, I love them all. To think that I changed my CCA during my secondary school days just to ensure I get to watch my Pokemon every Saturday is enough to show just about anyhow how I love my cartoons, toys and games. Even until now.

Speak to my significant other and she will gladly tell you stories on how I chose my game over her. Even my dad can vouch those stories with a particular incident where I was playing Neopets just hours before my GCE O Level exams. Imagine the anger.

Childhood Friend/Foe

Apart from those toys and game, I must say, there would not be fun without mates. My brother was the one who ‘fought countless war’ with me in Digimon, the one who sit so closely with me during every Saturday and Sunday morning cartoon time and of course, the one who got both of us caned with fights over toys as well. Apart from him, I’m fortunate to have friends with the same interests. One person in particular of course. He know who he is. From Neopets to Pokemon to Maplestory and now, Sudden Attack. I could easily call him a virtual best friend because we seem to spend more time virtually then being out together doing anything other than gaming.

Nevertheless, it was the above mentioned moments that make me feel life has been fun so far. Like I said, till today, I still yearn to own a Pokemon plushie, I still feel excited over watching old times cartoons and definitely I would want my kids to be as happy as how their father was in the past.

Games, Toys etc may cost money, but the happiness, interests and sometimes, passion that those tangibles brings, is definitely priceless, one that only like minded people would understand, truly.

CHILDHOOD IS PRICLESS. PERIOD.

Invasion of Hammy

Before I proceed to be happy about this post, I have to rant, all because of a very selfish and cruel act. In today’s world, I wouldn’t believe anyone who would abandon their pets in the most nonsensical way ever possible. I mean, who is the right mind would abandon their pets all because of Vesak Day, a day whom Buddhist believe is ‘giving life a chance’. If ‘giving life a chance’ would mean abandon your pets, logically, isn’t one killing it instead?

Whatever it is, if I’m ever going to meet the person who abandons those pets, I’ll make sure I give them a good lesson, mark my words.

That aside, back to the happy topic. And so, I found one hamster (Grey coloured winterwhite) after performing a nervous search along the corridor. Perhaps, some would termed it as ‘meant to be’ after a night of the hamsters breaking out from their pathetic box left by some idiots.

Unfortunately, only one was found. The day Ah Bin (the name I gave him to rhyme with my alias that my parents so lovingly gave me) entered into the warmly abode of mine, it was 1 May. Of course, having lost two hamsters painfully few years back, my mum was the happiest to have found this little cutie. Straight away, within hours, my mum came back home with a brand new cage for Ah Bin.

It took Ah bin only mere hours to get used to his (I assume it’s a HE) new home and sure it was all fun for him. He resembles ShooBing (The grey winterwhite who left us about a year plus ago) totally. This of course, remind all of us in the family of the heart-warming ties we had with ShooBing. The only difference is, Ah Bin bites. He’s like performing a ‘Ah Bin Strikes Back’ each time someone attempts to grab him. Nevertheless, we all enjoyed his biting. Which probably explains why he is one hell of a eater.

And so three weeks on, some miracle happened. Another hamster appeared in front of my house one fine morning. This time round, it is a white cutie, BUT, she was looking real frail and weak. Immediately, I relate her to the missing hamster that was supposed to be found three weeks ago. Without any delay, Monoko (her new name) was in the same cage as Ah Bin. Oh boy, wrong decision. Without any second, Ah Bin bites her until you could hear the most painful scream ever let out by a hamster. Monoko seems to be crying out for her life. DAMN! They can’t stay together, I thought. Seems like separation is the way to go.

When I returned home, I had two cages with two hammies inside. One white winterwhite, and one grey winterwhite, exactly like old times. It is as though god is trying to give us back Miu Miu and Shoobing. Naturally, they are all safely under the great care of my mum. Probably, that’s the best present she ever received this year. I’m glad, yet afraid at the same time. Glad because they shall be a great companion for my mum once again like how two other hammies used to be but afraid because if they were to be gone again, it’s a terrible pain for my mother.



But whatever it is, it’s a good fairytale ending for the hamsters because their lives are now safe until the day god decides to bring them to a better place, to join my forever beloved Miu Miu and Shoobing!

Selfish or Selfless. Think Again.

Many times, we seek convenience in our daily lives so much so that we seek it at the expense of others, directly or indirectly. Quality of life has caused us to take many things for granted. Things such as not needing to climb the stairs to your house because there’s always a lift serving you to your heart-warming home, or even a sheltered bus stop to shelter you from hot burning sun rays or hard splashing rain pour.

Learnt from a lesson as simple as the recent accident which caused innocent lives, it is totally uncalled for. This should never have happened if people were more considerate. Imagine how your patience could come a long way. Surely few seconds doesn’t kill. Dashing the red light and causing innocent lives, how will that go with you for the rest of your life if you are still alive? Luckily and deservingly in a way, he paid a price which I’m glad he did anyway.

There, you don’t only take away the lives of the innocent people but also the loved ones that is involved. Imagine how the family can survive long term with the sole breadwinner gone just like that. It’s a harsh reality that’s definitely hard to take. Even an outside like me finds it hard to swallow. All I felt deep in my heart is unbearable pity and heart-wrenching emotions.


Sometimes, I wish we could be more humane to spare a thought for others. I had my personal frustration too. A smoker happily smoking in the lift while I’m inside too, can you imagine the amount of 2nd hand smoke I inhale in that enclosed area? At times, I just feel like confronting that person, but then again, many times, by the time I realized it, that idiot has already left the lift while I’m happily stuck in there inhaling what I shouldn’t have. Will it kill you to either finish your cigarette before you take the lift, or smoke only after you exit the lift? I’m definitely not against smokers like how some people curse “Smokers Die Young!” but I’m definitely a “Inconsiderate Smokers Die Young’ person.

Show more patience, show more consideration, spare more thoughts and perhaps, this world can be a better place for everyone to live in. Isn’t it?

Diminishing Single-hood

Love. Till now, this word remains a complicated one. Behind the façade of this four letter word, there lie tons of complications definitions behind it. This word carries some of the most painful emotions on earth, yet at the same time, it unleashes some of the greatest moments of one’s life.

I’m one foot into ‘marriage’, unofficially, although I passed my ‘fairy tale’ dream of getting hitched at the tender age of 24. In just a few mere few years time, I will not be able to enjoy the freedom of Single-hood, along with other ‘perks’ that Single-hood brings.

Nobody will fully understand the importance of this Single-hood until they are totally exempted from it. I guess that’s the irony of life. When you are single, you wish you were attached. When you are attached, you hope you are single. There is no best of both worlds in this harsh reality.

 I’m still very much a single person even though I’m attached. I guess the day I considered myself NOT SINGLE (how scary!) will be the day I wore that wedding band and say my wedding vows meaningfully.

With our very own beloved abode bought and we very much know what’s next. For me, it contains a larger responsibility to ask for her precious hand, because this would mean a lot to not just the two of us, but those who loved us and we love. Our topic nowadays revolves around the milestones that are so near yet so far.

We realized and learnt a lot about what’s in store for us, still, at the back of our mind, we have, there’s definitely more that we are unaware off. The thing about marriage is, it’s not that simple as we used to think it is. It involves a lot, and a lot more if you are someone who wants to make it even more memorable and enjoyable.

Marriage talks and seminars opened out mind, widen our perspective and definitely aid in some of the planning. I long forgo the want to lavish the whole process but I still acknowledge the need to make this milestone worth the tag of ‘once in a lifetime’. They say marriage is a huge responsibility which acts as a test to a couple, and if that is the case, I would say getting married is a pre test, a pre-requisite that a couple has to pass before embarking on the lifelong journey together. And for this, I’m all prepared.

Weird Office Rules

I’m pretty sure every single one of us has a ‘dream boss’ in our heart. One whom had the heart of graciousness and one who showed empathy towards you while at the same time, provide guidance and utmost patience in whatever you do. BUT, that can only exist in dreamland.


The truth is, we are always stuck with imperfect boss. There are a lot of types of bosses. Some good, some bad and some, beyond hopeless. More often than not, it is the rules or guidelines laid down by the bosses that reflect greatly on the type of boss they are or can become.

Allow me to share some of the weirdest rules laid by bosses which bound to either nod autonomously or simply just let out a sign of relief:-

 - Your boss doesn’t allow you to take MC: WTF is such rule. Obviously, the reason why one is taking MC is because he or she is sick, and you expect the poor soul to work even though he or she is sick? And what’s worse, he or she could spread the virus to everyone else including you. Definitely something a Boss shouldn’t allow!

 - Your boss doesn’t allow employees to date with anyone within the company: Frankly speaking, this is reasonable to a very small extent but then again, it’s human rights than it being violated here. We are living in a 20th century where we are FREE TO LOVE. There’s no stopping when the cupid comes knocking isn’t it. Are you telling me you are control the number of times you sneeze or yawn per day? DUH!

 - Your boss insist you not talk AT ALL during work: How is that even possible in the first place? Unless you are telling me you are working in a workplace where voice or noise will cause harm or death, if not, that is ruinously rubbish.

 - Your boss doesn’t allow you to go toilet for big or small business: So what? Am I doing to pee into your mouth or shit on your face?

- Your boss doesn’t allow the usage of mobile phone AT ALL: Yes, your boss is going to take every single responsibility should something happened at home, NOT! Crap.

 - Your boss insists you work OT very single day: Your boss must be thinking just because he has no wife means that his employees shall not be allow spending time with their loved ones too. Simi Sai!

- Your boss will only allow your to change your stationary only if it is completely spoilt (beyond usage) and completely used up: Imagine your boss ensure your ink has been used up completely before he stingily allow you to replace it with just one pen.

- No personal belonging on workdesk or anywhere visible in the office: You’re telling me to be naked in the office, isn’t it? LOL! Now every cubicle and employee will look the same.

- You have to answer your office phone within one ring: This sound like a test for policeman who needs to be trained for alert and agility. Now, even if you are shitting, you can’t shit with a peace of mind.

Somehow, I’m glad none of the above happened to me and I really do hope it will never happen to me. And for those who encountered any of the above, probably, it’s time you head for a greener pasture, because I’m pretty sure for you, the grass is definitely greener on the other side.

Carrying Girlfriend's Handbag - Gentleman or Gay?

It caused such a huge uproar not long ago when some Stomper (apparently, too free to mind his/her own business) stomped into STOMP with pieces of evidences of a guy carrying his girlfriend's handbag,

Comments from Netizens soon followed, most of which were supportive of the perception of this Stomper. Whether these comments comes from a girl or guy, to me, it doesn't make much of a difference. It's these comments that make me feel, pathetic.

I grew up feeling loved. Loved for the fact that my mum carried my school bag to school for me, whether it is fetching me home or fetching me to school. This gesture, to me, is love. The love that parent gave to the child, for not needing to carry this physical burden.

Likewise, I grew up with this mentality - when I do grow up, it will be my rightful duty to carry my mother's handbag when she's older, and when what used to be her role, is switched to my duty now. Even if it's for a moment of seconds where she just needed someone to carry her bag for her, I'll gladly do so.

I brought this perception along with me as I enter into my relationship. To me, it's only right to carry your girlfriend's handbag, or rather, it's only right to ask if she needs you to help her with her handbag. It's a GENTLEMAN to do so in fact. To me, it's listed under one of the many etiquette to do. I never knew it could be such a big deal for showing love in the most gentlemanly manner.

Imagine this, guys like us don't usually carry a bag when we are out, and so, whenever we brought along with us for that date (such as water bottle, cardigen etc) are all thrown into HER handbag. And so, there you go, walk as freely as you can while she has one of her hands holding that useless hand of yours and the other hand tussling with the physical burden of that handbag.

I can't imagine how guys could abandon the thought of even helping your girlfriend with her handbag when it's utterly heavy just because of your seemingly ego and pride. To me, not helping your girlfriend with that is ever a bigger deal (a disgraceful one).

For once, I hope I could see more Gentlemen on the streets rather than pitiful girls with red marks on their shoulders (as if carrying your future child isn't bad enough). As for me, I stand by my belief that being a gentleman to your girlfriend is far more important than the intangible pride and ego that cost almost nothing.



PS: I'm a proud handbag carrier!

Derby of all Derbies

As far as I can remember in my years of supporting the Devils, never once has Man Utd came so close to a record breaking title, yet so far because of the inconsistency as well as the presence of the next door neighbors.

To put it simply, it’s now or never. It harnesses even more truth when the match possibly proves to be a victorious one or a heart-wrenching one to either one. To be honest, this season has been a roller coaster ride for the Devil fans. Starting with the season slowly, and eventually being dumped behind by the Blues by mid season. The hard fought spirit gradually gave us a light of hope beginning of this year up until a point where we could literally feel the trophy. But now, it’s all to fight for. Blame it on the inconsistency if one must. I don’t remember feeling so disappointed so many times during my years of supporting them and I must say, they never fail to disappoint at times they most should not have.

For once, I can better understand the meaning of ‘comeback’. It’s never easy to sustain the momentum, especially with a squad full of good players vying for top spot. It wasn’t until beginning of this year where the tables were turned around. The introduction of Paul Scholes was a pure shocker. Nobody expectted him to play, and definitely not me of course. Just when the midfield crisis is starting to deepen, Scholes seems to be the angel amongst the darkness. However, I dare not harbor hopes, because it all seemed too far, then. Anything that happens after that is a fairytale. Wins after wins in games he played, Rooney formed a near perfect partnership with a rising Danny Welback and from there, we see how Man City feels threaten for the first time this season and since then, things were going our way. I That’s the thing about this beautiful game. Nobody can say it’s over until the final whistle is blown.

Nobody can said who’s going to have the title until the title has been won literally and in 12 hours time, I’m about to watch one of the greatest derby of my life, dubbed the Derby of all Derbies! I have such huge faith in them and I could feel what it is like being in the shoes of the players themselves. Having said that, all I wish is, come 5am tomorrow, I’ll be having one of the sweetest dreams of my life.

Working The Japan Way

I was mentioning how the end of a chapter spells another beginning back last month. Time sure flies and I'm already near 3 weeks into my job. I must say, I'm rather impressed with myself, at how fast I managed to adapt to this whole new working environment. But definitely, I wouldn't have done it without the support of my girlfriend, that's for sure. She made me realized what's 'pillar of my life'. Aside for the relentless support, if not for the fact that the culture shock this Japanese company brings, I wouldn't even dare to consider it as a huge feat.

Interestingly, I got a culture shock on my first day of work. I don't know to feel glad or sad to be honest. The fact that I got a shock made my first few days of work tough, real tough. I reckon if I would have come from a more Asian and open company prior to this, things would probably be slightly easier for me. Perhaps comparison was at fault for this shock.

Therefore, I make a survival manual as to what you could possibly expect working in a Japanese company.

Unique Working Environment

You get low partition between each other  in this huge space in a single floor. In this classroom style working environment, you get literally low or NO privacy at all. Everyone can see what you are doing at your desktop. Everyone can see when you're the first person to leave the office. Everyone can see if you doze off during your work. And when I mention everyone, I really mean EVERYONE, all 100++ of them.

Because of this unique style, my boss sits just beside me, and he's probably just half an arm away from me. Oh, did I mention the only person who has a room in this entire company in the president? Yes, you hear me right, even Vice President, General Managers and Bosses sit in such open environment, so it's a literal truth that everyone can see what you are doing, even your big big big big big boss.

'The Phone Plays Music?!' 

This is definitely something new. And possibly the only thing you'll experience only if you are in a Japanese company. Our office phone is apparently customized so that our phone will ring at 9am (which is our official working start time), 12pm (lunchtime), 1pm (end of lunchtime) and lastly 5.45pm (official working end time). They will play such nice melody for a mere 30 seconds before it stops and the phone is definitely very punctual. Unchained melody?

Cleanest Toilet Award 

Yes. You guessed it. How can I leave toilet bowl out. They see toilet as importantly as any other equipment or accessory in the office. And you won't be able to find a single squatting platform anywhere in the office. There's only toilet bowls. They are cleaner than most toilets you find in Singapore. And trust me you know you're in a Japanese company when each time you enter the toilet, the cover is closed. You open it up when you want to use it, and you close it back when you are done using it. Speaking about toilet manners. A good way to start from here definitely

Company's Greatest Asset

No doubt, when you are in a Japanese company, you get one of the most amazing mentality you could possibly see in the workforce. Thankfully, I was able to be part of this. We have seen how Japanese had the never say die attitude when they fought the war back in our grandpa days. We have seen how Japanese worked together with each other to tide over the major earthquake last year. This is the spirit within them. They instill a mindset that each and everyone has a part to play in everything they do. This is no different in this company. If I fail in what is expected of me, it means my boss has failed. This is also the reason why bosses here never gives up on you easily. Call it ego if you want, but to them, if they are the ones who hire you, it means they have to prove that they have made the right choice, else, it will reflect badly on them. That is why, employees here are always learning because their bosses is willing to teach. This way, it attributes to us employees being a great assets of the company.

Workaholic

Japan, being where they are today with such advanced technology and economy, is by no means easy feat. The reason why they climb so fast on the economics ladder is because people there worked hard, literally. When I was back in Japan few years back, 11pm and I was in the bus coach cruising by office towers by the highway, all I see inside the building are brightly lit window panes. Indeed, people are still working at those hours. Their high suicide rates is also caused by the tremendous stress from work. Japanese worked hard. The employees in my company is the same. To them, a hardworking or good employee is one who works till late. Never mind if you are not doing your work efficiently or effectively, so long as you leave the office LATE, you are a good worker. Period. Dangerous for me, who still firmly believe in work life balance. 

Manners

Manners to the Japanese is extremely important and it has to be observed in the work place. Mobile phones has to be switched off, no speaking loudly, be considerate towards colleagues and superiors alike..etc...the list goes on. The way the bosses (Japanese mainly) speak to each other already shows how much manners mean to them. To them, what manners you display shows alot about yourself. A good place for me to turn less couth I suppose.

Punctuality

Punctuality matters more than anything else. Every seconds counts here. If you're late, be prepared to be on the target list of your superior. The Japanese are VERY VERY particular about punctuality. To them, if you cannot even observe punctuality, how are you even to manage your work. To them, if you have poor time management, chances are, you are not going to be good at managing the tasks and responsibilities entrusted to you. This is definitely no joke, especially for someone like me.

I'm sure there's more to what was mentioned here but basically, the gist of it is here. And if you noticed, most of which actually attributes one to be a better person, not just a better employee. I'm sure this workplace will expose me to much more than I can learn and hopefully, I can really be a better employee and person through this valuable opportunity given to me.