Excuse Me, Are You Deceased?

I subscribe to a survey portal called AIP Online Surveys where I do a few surveys occasionally when I am invited to, after which they give me some reward (using a points system). Well, I have encountered quite a number of errors - of grammar, language, and even logic at times - over the years but today's is the most hilarious that I've come across - so far.

A survey about 'Lifestyle', the questionnaire asked general questions on how often I travelled, my age (2 times - ??) , and familiarity with brands of cars, among other things. However, the question that really blew me away was the following, which I can only assume was asking if I was a widower. But before I arrived at this conclusion, the first thing that popped into my mind was - "how can a deceased person be taking this survey?"...

The 'Index Card' Creativity Lesson

I conducted a workshop at Singapore Polytechnic today on incorporating visuals into presentation and, as part of the workshop, I produced an activity to get the students to create visual representations of issues close to their hearts. As the activity was well received, I thought it would be useful to share the idea with everyone.

Basically, the concept was inspired by a blog I read fairly regularly entitled Indexed. Adapting that idea of reducing various issues onto index card visuals, I got the students to group together and come up with the visuals on index cards supplied to them. After a bit of hesitation, the students really got going and came up with the following visuals...

Group 1 (above) included students who were quite lateral thinking (front row is an indicator perhaps?) and they used rulers to draw their graphs. The Venn Diagram (Enjoy Life) was interesting and the second visual was quite straightforward (age/maturity) - which I suggested could be turned into a bell curve to suggest that after a certain age, you become less mature (senile). The first visual above (trouble/women) was indeed humorous but as we discussed, all of us realised that it could be interpreted as (a) more women would translate into more problems, and as (b) when there is more trouble, you'd need more women to solve it!

Group 2 (above) included 3 quiet male students and they came up with pretty straightforward visuals on the facts of life (hair mass, drug addicition, travelling time, saying the wrong things).

Group 3 (above) comprised good-natured students who were more extroverted and naturally, their visuals reflected their off-beat humour. Interestingly, the trouble/teacher visual was similar to the trouble/women visual of the earlier group. Likewise, the interpretation that more teachers would be required when there was more trouble was suggested as an alternative here as well.

Group 4 (above) obviously explored the depth of the task and produced some creative visuals that told stories. Although the first visual seems abstract and arbitrary, the student was able to justify his creation by suggesting that it represented himself exorcising the evil elements of society. As for the other 2 visuals, the level of frustration and meaning was evident in their detail.

Group 5 (above) was relatively enthusiastic about the exercise and asked a few questions before embarking on their preparation. Notably, the theme was to communicate to the teacher/tutor the difficulties in getting to class (first visual - crowded train, 8pm timing) and to preferably keep lessons short (second visual - attention span/length of lecture). The final visual was an interesting play of using equations to 'logically' suggest that studying would lead to failure!


All in all, the students enjoyed the exercise and watching one another's creations being showcased (a Visualiser was used to flash the index cards on-screen). At the same time, the overall class response as each visual was flashed showed the students how some of the visuals did not create the intended impact, others were open to interpretation, and a few were remarkably funny, poignant and meaningful.

After everyone had a hearty laugh at the series of index cards, I linked back the lesson to the fundamentals of selecting visuals which had been discussed before the activity was conducted. Thus, the students were able to appreciate how these points came into play through the process of the activity.

I find that this activity can also be used to elicit thoughts, frustrations, opinions and ideas as it forces students to think of the relationships involved in various issues. Although this exercise was conducted in relation to a topic involving the use of visuals in presentation, it can just as easily be used as a means to generate content for a specific issue or agenda.

A point to note though is that for lower level students who may not understand how to reduce issues into such visual relationships, there might be a need to do 2 iterations of this exercise - a first round where they will learn how to create this type of visuals (by making mistakes and learning the process), and then the second round proper where they can incorporate creativity and purpose into the exercise to produce meaningful visuals.

Well, have fun using this little exercise and do leave a note here to let me know how it went for you, cheers!

Halimah Gets Featured In Sunday Times

I was meaning to include a note about my wife's appearance in the Sunday Lifestyle a couple of weeks ago (on a good friend's birthday, in fact) and so here it is. Well, she was featured in the section Singapore Cooks for her Vegan Briyani recipe and the report included quite a large picture of her as well. Needless to say, I am extremely proud of her.

More lovely pictures of her culinary works of art are available on her blog, and if you like, you could also support her online vegan bakery (as good as the real thing, by the way).

A Lesson In Statistics From ST

Wow, it's been a month already - how time flies when you're having fun.

In today's Straits Times, I came across an article on Page 2 of the Home Section that raised my eyebrows - 1.44 Million Read ST screamed the headline (note: this link will be dead if you're reading this more than a week after this entry was made - so you can read the PDF snapshot of the article here). I thought to myself, so 1.44 million readers actually bothered to contact ST to tell them so, not bad. I was further intrigued to find out how this feat of contacting 1.44 million people was done - especially since I was not contacted myself about this, and duly read the article.

Well, what actually happened was this - the Nielson Media Index 2008 was released yesterday or the day before. This Index uses a 'face-to-face survey' of 4,700 persons over the age of 15 to gather information and subsequently reports this finding (ie. how many feel this, how many agree with that etc.) through the Index. And in this Index (which I can't find and suspect must buy to read), the ST was quoted as being read by 39% of those surveyed - ie. 1,833 of the 4,700 persons said they read the ST.

Apparently, in last year's report (Nielson Media Index 2007), this percentage was quoted as 37.9%. So, using 39% - 37.9% = 1.1%, the real difference between the 2 years would be more or less 52 persons (1.1% of 4,700). However, this percentage could have also been reached if there had simply been more total respondents to begin with - ie. 1,833 of 4,836 = 37.9%. So, if there had been just 136 more persons surveyed last year as compared to this year, this 'increase' would not be an increase after all.

Interesting right? It gets better. The 1.44 million figure is 39% of 3.69 million 'consumers' (roughly 80% of the population since the survey was only for those aged 15 and older). The actual corresponding numerical figure for this 39% is 1,833 persons, which means each person in the survey acted on behalf of 784 other 'consumers'. Therefore, the '105,000 more readers' translates to just 133 real survey respondents.

Hey, the actual numbers don't seem as impressive, I hear you say? Well, that's the idea, isn't it? Instead of reporting the facts outright, the suggestive figures were reported glamourously. Any survey is only indicative with nothing to laud about, and even though 4,700 persons may very well be a large sample size, it is only representative of 0.12% of the intended target (that's LESS THAN ONE PERCENT mind you).

What would have been a better approach (better for the independent understanding of the reader that is) would be stating the respondent size (4,700) followed by just the percentage and/or respondent figures for each category (eg. 'ST readers comprised 39% or 1,833 of the respondents' and so on). Extrapolating the figures is for dramatic effect only and therefore should have been limited to a one-liner somewhere in the middle of the article.

Well, this concludes the lesson from ST. Remember, now you can just find any 100 strangers at Orchard Road, give them a sweet or freebie, then ask them to answer the question "Do you think I am a nice person?", collate the figure (which would be a 'yes' for almost all), get an official figure on shoppers at Orchard Road from somewhere (which should be in the millions), and finally proclaim, 'XXX is Liked by Millions of Shoppers at Orchard Road!' - ie. 90+% extrapolated to cover that official figure on shoppers.

I sincerely hope to find the Nielsen Media Index and have a look at it and also study the methodology used. But I am pretty sure that no one in the 4,700 respondents was a homeless person, an old aunty or uncle wiping tables, a person serving jail time, or a person at IMH. But of course the 1.44 million figure includes such persons by default.

Well, if anyone can point me to the source of these findings, please inform me so that I can update this entry with that information, thank you. In the meanwhile, do have fun manipulating statistical figures to make yourself look good.

Singapore Reality in Hell Boy 2?

The lack of proper updates during the past 3 weeks is largely due to the current projects on my plate coupled with the preparation of the necesary administrative details with regard to the release of my new book.

Well, recently I had the chance to watch Hell Boy 2 and although the movie itself was not that fantastic, an idea struck me when I saw one scene where the characters spoke a fictional language. The scene itself dealt with an issue somewhat similar to Singapore's political climate and I naturally felt it would make for some good satire.

Basically, the idea bore out of the ERP-Hitler Spoof that was circulated around not long ago. I managed to get a clip of the original scene and went about creating a 'Singaporean perspective' of the scene. I do think it makes for a good laugh and hope you agree. Of course, you might simply find this lame and if so, I'm terribly sorry.

I do hope you enjoy this at least somewhat and perhaps I will have a chance to do more of the same - it's pretty fun to create...

The 'Unofficial' Police Handbook

Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you my first book - The 'Unofficial' Police Handbook. 3 years in the making - on top of my other projects, I have completed my 60-page insight on the elements of being a Police Officer. Meant to be both readable and informative to the layman whilst being exciting to fellow officers, I sincerely hope that it is accepted by one and all.

The E-Book preview contains the Preface, Chapter 1 and Chapter 9 (closing chapter) in full, so I hope that it gives a good overall indication of how good (or bad) the book is. After much research, I have decided to price the book between S$8 and S$10 - depending on the final cost of printing and marketing. However, I will be taking pre-orders for the book at S$7 a copy with the print release date set on (or before) 1st October 2008. Please drop me an email via the email link on the left or drop me an SMS at 90602206 to place your orders.

I encourage everyone to read the preview first and decide for yourself if it is worth your money to buy and read it. As those who know me would attest, it is not my style to ask anyone to 'support' this endeavour by buying the book for the sole reason of knowing me. I only ask the small favour of adding your opinion of the preview in the comments section of this entry - be they good or bad.

Front Cover



Back Cover





click icon for e-book preview

Singapore Dissident Goes Awry?

As my 'regular reads' list on the left column testifies, I (used to) enjoy reading Mr Gopalan Nair's entries regarding the state of Singapore politics. I chanced upon his blog at least a year or two ago and have been reading his thoughts regularly, long before the ongoing debacle in Singapore occurred.

Although I felt it was unnecessary for him to come into Singapore and invite trouble in the first place, I felt that is was either a case of extreme silliness or political bravery - and very possibly a potent mix of both. I was not sure if his motivations were personal or patriotic but was willing to give him the benefit of the doubt notwithstanding.

As most of my readers know, I was formerly in the Police Force for 10 years and was attached to the Central Police Division for the duration of my career. For a major part of those 10 years, I was doing much work at the Little India vicinity by way of various assignments. I was therefore naturally tickled when Mr Nair chose to stay at the Broadway Hotel along Serangoon Road upon his arrival and even more intrigued when he was arrested for Disorderly Behaviour within that jurisdiction.

I immediately checked with Mr Nair's version on his blog, Singapore Dissident, and he claimed to have been followed and persecuted. I thought perhaps some ISD officers had been tracking his movements which led to the scuffle and subsequent arrest. However, a few days later, I happened to chat with one of my ex-colleagues and was told that he was actually arrested by 'normal' officers who were doing routine plainclothes patrol that night. In fact, some of the officers who arrested him are known to me personally.

I was informed that these officers did not know who Mr Nair was until he was brought back to the Police station. I have no reason to disbelieve this as I know that the officers involved are not that much interested in the (opposition) political climate - unless of course they are tasked to perform duties with regard to 'demonstrations', in which case they curse and swear.

That being the case, it is very highly probable that Mr Nair WOULD NOT have been arrested had the officers recognised who he was. I am certain that he was not singled out and had, on his own accord, invited trouble by banging on the bonnet of the Police car. In usual cases (from personal experience as well), Police Officers try to give the benefit of the doubt to abusive drunkards simply because; a) they are more of a nuisance than being criminals, and; b) they are a handful until they sober up - being a nuisance from arrest to lock-up till they eventually sober up. Not to mention, somewhere along the line, they will throw up (ie. vomit) and compound matters for evryone involved.

In Mr Nair's case, the level of tolerance would have been (much) higher had the officers known who he was from the beginning of the incident. Of course, this is not to say that he would not have gotten himself arrested anyway with his antics eventually. I would even go as far as to say that he must have been extremely violent and aggressive to have 'forced' the officers into arresting him.

Personally, I feel disappointed that he would choose to provoke officers and invite trouble for himself. In his latest entry regarding the ensuing court case, he also speaks of the court officials being reluctant to identify their full names. Although I find this immaterial to the matter of the case itself, he mentions the investigator, Mr S Vickneshwaran, using a false name, S Vicki. I have personally known this officer since 1995 and he has always gone by the name 'Vicki'. In fact, there is only one officer 'Vicky' in the whole of Central Police Division (more so for 'S Vicky') and it is definitely not a 'completely false name' as alleged by Mr Nair in that entry.

At best, he is nitpicking with regard to this issue and, at worst, he is intentionally disrupting proccedings with a sideshow. I am again disappointed with this behaviour which he could and should avoid. As things progress, I find that, overall, he is drumming up things unnecessarily and then claiming to be persecuted.

These officers are restricted by the OSA (Official Secrets Act) and will not be able to defend themselves directly unlike Mr Nair who can post everything on his blog. Although I am not fond of things as they are in Singapore, I refuse to just stand by and watch my friends and ex-colleagues, who are honest tax-payers themselves, and who perform their jobs with dignity and honour, be subjected to such unfounded accusations and baseless distortions of the truth.

The purpose of this post is to let everyone see the other side of the coin with regard to the Disorderly Behaviour incident involving Mr Gopalan Nair. The facts stated herein are as good as hearing from the officers involved themselves, thank you.

Mr Gopalan Nair (left) & Rochor NPC (right) - Where I Was Last Posted

The 'Checker' Goes National (well, sort of)

Some pleasant news today. The local free distribution bilingual read entitled My Paper has run a small story in today's issue about the Excel utility I created to check the suffix of NRIC/FIN numbers (see previous post). It's on Page 4 and I've uploaded the full PDF version of that page here for those interested. The article itself appears as below and is written by Ms Koh Hui Theng, a very nice and friendly journalist.

Later in the morning, I also received an SMS from a stranger asking where to download the utility. This person had searched online and came across my profile with my contact number and duly messaged me. Wow, I am quite touched that what I thought was a simple and insignificant thing turned out to be so helpful and useful to others.

Once again, I am thankful to the moderators of tomorrow.sg for choosing to feature this and My Paper for running the story as well. Special mention goes to all the commentors and reviewers who helped me to improve and correct the shortcomings of the 'checker'.

Update:
The ICA responded to the article to clarify that their iCheck was not the same as my NRIC Checker and attached below is their official reply that appeared in the 29th July issue of My Paper.

NRIC & FIN Number Suffix Checker

I am always having to deal with a lot of NRIC numbers in the course of my volunteer work with SINDA as a Centre Administrator at Pioneer STEP Centre. On one occasion recently, I was faced with one applicant who had entered his NRIC suffix incorrectly and I couldn't get through to the parent to verify.

Naturally, I turned to the internet for help and came across a few reverse-engineering findings of the algorithm used to calculate the suffix of our NRIC numbers. Whilst there is an 'exe' file for checking NRICs, I felt something non-intrusive such as an Excel document would be better. So, I have created one which can do the job and thrown in the checks for FIN numbers as well.

So here we go, the NRIC/FIN number checker

Licence is free to use (of course) but do credit the source of this particular creation (me) and I would appreciate if the contents were left unchanged, thanks.

For those interested, all the identification numbers use the Modulo 11 Checksum algorithm with the NRIC S-series corresponding to the FIN F-series (each uses a different set of suffix letters). The NRIC T-series just shifts the letters by four spaces from the S-series as does the FIN G-series from the F-series.

Finally, a word of caution. NRIC and FIN numbers are sensitive information and I do not endorse the use of this document for criminal, illegal or any non-genuine purpose.

Update:
After a call I received from one 'less than satisfied customer' who used the NRIC Checker, I realised that the following information is necessary. Please do not save the file at any point. There are formulas within the Excel document to calculate the values and display the appropriate suffix. However, if the cells with the formulas are altered, then obviously the checker will not function as it should.

If you find that the suffix is no longer being displayed whilst in use, simply close the file - click 'No' when asked to save the file - and then reopen it to try again. If at all the Checker does not seem to function at all, then delete the file completely and download a fresh copy to try again.

I have verified the file integrity and am certain that it works accurately.

Update ++:
As the comments section show, I was advised to protect the document in order to avoid problems for users - which I have duly done. So for those with the Midas Touch with regard to messes, well this should solve the problem. The only cells that can now be accessed in the protected state are the cells where you would need to enter the digits of the NRIC/FIN number, enjoy (hopefully).

Update +++:
From the kind contribution (see comments) of a reader, Nighthound, the 'checker' now includes vehicle registration numbers as well!

This entry has also been featured on the highly-popular tomorrow.sg so I guess I'm a little (in)famous now, hahaha. Thanks to the moderators jseng and Agagooga for approving this post as worthy.

Update (Bug Fix):

Take note that there was a bug in the original checker such that the suffix 'I' and 'J' (S-series) would not appear, with the corresponding suffix letters for the other series affected as well. Due to an alert from Nighthound, I was able to correct the errors and the latest file appears on this blog. I truly apologise for the oversight and humbly ask anyone who finds any further bugs to either email me or leave a comment here, thank you.

Update (Bug Fix 2):
Not really a bug fix but more of an upgrade. From Kervin's advice (see comments below), I have incorporated an error check such that when more than one digit is input into one box, there is a message asking to check.

Mas Selamat NOT In Nirwana Gardens Resort, Bintan, Indonesia

With the hectic lifestyle we lead, Hali and I decided to get our minds off and focus on the wider national issue of the fugitive Mas Selamat (MS). We mooted the idea to our good friends, Jai and Charu, who's marriage anniversary was just around the corner. Having applied for leave during the weekend of 1st June right up to their anniversary date of 3rd June, they were more than happy to join us on our mission.

So, a week before the intended departure, we looked up Holiday Bagus, which was offering packages for the Indra Maya Villas at Nirwana Gardens Resort. We spoke with the very helpful Faridah there and within the next few days, secured a 3D2N package to the sea-view villa, Blowfish 4, with complimentary breakfast for 4 persons on 2 days, and inclusive of ferry tickets to and fro, for the price of S$1,480 nett.

No Sign of MS at Bintan Ferry Terminal

The weekend arrived soon enough and a quick 45 minute ferry journey from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal on the Indera Bupala later, we found ourselves being received by the Nirwana Gardens staff at Bintan Ferry Terminal. Another 15 minutes on the road in a mini-bus found us arriving at the Mayang Sari reception which handles the check-in for the Indra Maya Villas.

At about 4.30pm (SG), we were watching the view of the sea from the living room of our villa with a private swimming pool in between. We searched the villa itself thoroughly and while there was a set of complimentary drinks in the fridge, complimentary tea and coffee sachets in the kitchen and a complimentary fruit basket in the living room, there was so sign of MS. Our friends searched the extravagant main bedroom as it was their anniversary weekend and we took charge of the second bedroom which was quite simple in layout by comparison - no luck finding him there as well.

No Sign of MS Swimming in the Sea

'Elevated' Search of Shoreline

Spacious Living Room

The Main Bedroom

Sunken Bath Outside Main Bedroom

Second Bedroom

We then decided that the next best thing to do would be to search the swimming pool and all 4 of us jumped in. Our preliminary search revealed no traces as well. After scanning the sea view whilst soaking ourselves in the pool, we decided to search other areas of the resort. We all had a quick shower - separately of course - and jumped into our 'fast response buggy' (standard issue for each villa) to continue our search for MS.

False Alarm: Foot Spotted is My Own

5 minutes later, we arrived at the Kelong Restaurant and decided to search there. In order not to seem out of place, we ordered a seafood dinner that included plain rice, fried rice, steamed Garoupa, Tom Yam soup, chilli chicken with water-chestnut, a beancurd dish, and a vegetable dish. Although the dinner was sumptuous, it wasn't a stellar spread and the price of S$109 nett was a tad pricey, to say the least. Unsurprisingly, MS was nowhere to be seen there and we left for the villa to prepare our next course of action.

The Kelong Restaurant

Acting Naturally Inside

Once we were back in our villa, we decided to keep our minds focused by watching an action film on the DVD player and discussing our lives. As Charu was not feeling well (but the most committed to this mission among the 4 of us), we decided to have a good night's rest at 1.00am (SG).

The next morning, before heading to Mayang Sari's Spice Restaurant for our buffet breakfast, Hali and I decided to sweep the perimeter of the pool to make sure there was no breach of security. Apart from some clandestine squirrels and lizards mating, everything else was perfect.

Perimeter Sweep

At the Spice Restaurant, the buffet breakfast was adequate but not quite what we expected. Some continental fare such as chicken sausages, french toast, croissants and potatoes, as well as local Asian fare such as Nasi Lemak, porridge and chicken rendang were noted in the spread, though some sparrows were observed sneaking in to snatch unattended pieces of cake along the buffet line.

A heavy downpour appeared before we could finish our breakfast and we held back from continuing our search slightly due to this. However, within one hour from the start of the rain, the sun was up and the beach was back to its original condition. We surveyed the beach area in front of Mayang Sari and also the nearby Nirwana Gardens Resort Hotel vicinity which had some wildlife exhibits of eagles, an owl, a vulture, some crocodiles and some pythons among others. Jai and I also took the time to strategise using a life-sized chess set whilst at the Resort Hotel.

Heavy Rain Hindering Our Search

An Hour Later, Pristine Beach

Underwater Search

Jai Had the Better Strategy

Resort Hotel Patrol

We returned to the villa after this recce late in the afternoon and decided to investigate the beach directly in front of the villa. We literally left no stone unturned in our search and pored over hermit crabs on the relatively virgin beach and drifted through the nearby foliage as well. When we returned from this expedition, we felt that some pool-searching would be a good idea and we jumped in couple-by-couple till sundown.

Searching the Rock Face

Horizon Vigil

Practising to Spear in Case MS Tries to Run

Going Right Up to the Water to Check

Leaving Our Mark to Intimidate MS

Keeping Watch Till Sunset from the Pool

We then decided to proceed to the Aryan Thai Restaurant for the night time search operation and was invited by a posh ambience within. The prices looked comparable to that of the Kelong Restaurant's menu and we were happy. However, when the dishes arrived, we realised that the portions were ridiculously small, and by comparison, were only half of what we were served at the Kelong Restaurant.

Although the food was rich and relatively authentic Thai cuisine, the portions were disappointing and all of us felt quite cheated. We wondered if MS had a hand in this deceit, but it seemed unlikely that the staff were in collusion with the fugitive. We made a mental note to order room service later should we become hungry and left the posh diner S$121 nett poorer.

More Expensive Dinner but only Half Filled

Back at the villa, we watched another movie until around 11.30pm (SG) when Hali and I suggested that we proceed to the Calypso bar, which was at the end of the jetty off the Kelong Restaurant, for a surprise check there. We arrived shortly before midnight with no sign of MS there. We ordered a drink each, played a few rounds of UNO and watched the huge collection of stars as we crossed into Jai and Charu's wedding anniversary date after midnight. Soon after, as the bar was about to close, we brought our drinks back to the room (special request) to finish and retired for the night thereafter.

Celebrating their 8th Year Anniversary at Calypso

On our second morning, the routine had been set and soon, we had our breakfast ritual completed at the Spice Restaurant. The spread was worse than the previous day and the replenishing was slow. After breakfast, we decided to scout the beach off Mayang Sari thoroughly for any signs of MS swimming or sunbathing. Our scouting, of course, included wading in the water as it came crashing onto the shore. After this search, we also ventured to The Viewpoint which offered a good vantage point overlooking the Mayang Sari chalets but MS could not be sighted there as well.

Border Patrol Duty

Checking Splash Safety

Confirming Splash Safety

Panorama of Mayang Sari

As it was hot, upon returning to the villa, all of us could not help but dip into the pool to make one final sweep. Although the checkout time was 12pm (INDO), we endured with our search until 11.55am (INDO). Unfortunately, before we could shower and pack up, the staff were already at our doorstep waiting. They waited several minutes for us to finish packing and we finally left our villa at about 12.30pm (INDO).

Not MS in Disguise

The checkout process at Mayang Sari was a breeze and the return back to Singapore was a mere (sad) formality. No doubt, we wished to stay on and keep searching for MS but alas, we had to return to our daily commitments in Singapore. Nevertheless, having established that MS is not at the Nirwana Gardens Resort of Bintan, we strive to return regularly to ensure that he does not make his way there in future.

The Staff Made to Wait Also Asked to Take Last Photo

Negotiating With Starhub - A Successful Case Study

I have been using Starhub services for quite a bit of time now and it has not always been smooth-sailing. There have been times when the reception totally disappeared and I had to wait for an hour or so to get it back - I believe this was the time they were migrating from 2G to 3G. Then, there are times when my internet connection goes ridiculously slow (more often) and/or totally dies (a handful of occasions). Usually, this throws my schedule haywire - my work is highly dependent on internet connectivity, especially when the customer support can only offer me a cryptic "it may take anything from a few hours to a day" followed by "our technicians are looking into it now".

I have taken all this in my stride because - to quote the now (in)famous words, "what to do. it has happened". The only service from Starhub that was not affected in all these years was the CableTV - and then it happened.

I am a fairly avid soccer fan. I watch the major competitions and reasonably follow the major leagues (English, Spanish, Italian, German). Naturally, for the World Cup in 2006, I took up the offer to pay an additional S$10.70 to receive the coverage by Starhub. Similarly, for the Euro 2008, I intended to take up the offer as well.

However, unlike 2006, this year I did not receive a mailer to inform me to sign up for the S$10.70 promotion. And by the time I got around to visiting the Starhub website to check, I realised that the promotional period (early bird thing) had ended, and I would only be able to enjoy the coverage at double the cost - S$21.40. With prices everywhere going up, I saw no reason to pay double for the privilege of watching Euro 2008.

Nevertheless, I wanted to find out what Starhub could do for me - a loyal customer who has a credit balance (ie. Starhub will have to return me money if I terminate) in his account to the tune of about S$500. Thus, I dropped them a feedback query through their website as follows.

I was awaiting the letter from Starhub offering the EURO 2008 coverage at $10.70 (as for the World Cup in 2006) but did not receive any notification. I have just realised that the special price offer expired on 12 May 2008 and it would now cost me double the amount to take up the coverage. If Starhub is inclined to offer me, a loyal customer of several years who has a CREDIT balance of over $500 in his broadband account with it, the preferential rate of $10.70, then I will be keen to take up the EURO 2008 coverage package, otherwise I will forego the opportunity to watch the competition, thank you. - 22/05/2008 2:06:37 PM

I didn't think much of it and felt that it was pretty much a case of either wanting to indulge me or not, and so was slightly annoyed with the unfeeling 'standard' response I received 24 hours later.

Thank you for your e-mail of 22 May 2008. We regret to inform you that the early bird offer for the Season pass has ended on 12 May 2008. We wish to inform you that you can sign up for STARHUB UEFA EURO 2008™ Season Pass at $21.40 now and stand a chance to win a HubStation daily. This promotional contest will end on 31 May 2008. If you have any questions on our services, please e-mail us at this address or fax in to +65 6725 1603. Best regards, Wong Boon Chai, Customer Affairs. - May 23, 2008 2:10 PM

As if I did not know this already. I thought it was quite clear that I acknowledged the fact of the matter and the question was would Starhub be willing to bend over backwards (a bit) for me, a loyal customer. Such replies certainly deserve a sarcastic response, so I shot one back the moment I read the reply.

Thank you for your reply. In my initial query to you, I acknowledged that I am fully aware of the expiry of the early bird promotion on 12 May 2008. It was wonderful of you to notify me this notwithstanding. Please confirm if a mailer was sent out to me, which was what I was looking out for to begin with. As my contention is that I was not duly informed of the promotion, I am not prepared to pay $21.40 (or, in other words, double) now for the opportunity to watch Euro 2008.

If I am counted as one of the valued customers of Starhub, then some arrangement should be made to recognise this 'value'. After all, we are talking about an amount of $10+ which to a large company like Starhub is surely an insignificant price to placate a loyal customer of several years - customer since 2000, Hub Club member, and, a total of 4 mobile lines, one fixed line, CableTV & Broadband for my residential address.

If no effort is taken on the part of Starhub, then I will take it that this is how it views its customers and consider switching to a competitor at the next available opportunity. I am disappointed that Starhub does not value its customers and will let my friends and family know as such, thank you. - 23/05/2008 4:14:18 PM

Of course, in most cases, such a response would invite hostility but, in this case, I was pleasantly surprised to receive a call from another Officer, Lim Song Yee, within 15 minutes of sending the email, to inform me that after further review, Starhub would give me the promotional rate of S$10.70 after all. I was quite happy to take up the offer which was confirmed in writing not moments later via email.

Thank you for your e-mail of 23 May 2008. We refer to our telephone conversation earlier. We wish to inform you that we have made an exception and added the STARHUB UEFA EURO Season Pass to your subscription as you have requested. The early bird charge of $10.70 (w/GST) will be shown in your next invoice. You will receive the acknowledgement letter with the channel details at your service address. If you have any questions on our services, please e-mail us at this address or fax in to +65 6725 1603. Best regards, Lim Song Yee, Customer Affairs. - May 23, 2008 4:40 PM

At the end of it, a happy resolution was reached (like Pedra Banca but without the drama?) and I applaud Starhub for getting it right. However, the point of the matter may be that individual officers within the same organisation may react very differently to situations and where the first officer offered a very unsatisfactory response, the second officer managed to get the job done extremely well within a mere half hour. Accordingly, I ended the correspondence with Starhub with some kind words.

Thank you indeed for the pleasant surprise of your call. I am not sure how and why Mr Wong (the initial officer who emailed me) could not exercise the initiative and decisive action that you so clearly displayed in the first place, but nevertheless, I appreciate your prompt resolution of the matter in a mere half hour from my reply. Sincerely, I do feel appreciated as a customer and Starhub can certainly look forward to my patronage for years to come. Accordingly, if you require a testimonial with regard to this incident for any internal or corporate purpose at all, feel free to request for one from me - I will be more than happy to provide you with the same.

In the meanwhile, I would like to go on record as saying that it is staff such as you, Mr Lim Song Yee, that can bring an organisation like Starhub further forward. Thank you for the experience and I now look forward to relating this positive occurrence to others - and to watch Euro 2008 as well! - 23/05/2008 5:06:54 PM

I guess the purpose of relating this incident is for some of you to be inspired to push ahead with demands, complaints and seeking resolutions in spite of not much success; and also to help others determine if Starhub's service and support is reasonable enough - good luck and good night.

image source: trexi.com.sg

Glasnost Project Suggests BitTorrent Blocking By Starhub

The Glasnost Project which is a study by some German researchers on broadband networks released a preliminary report on 15th May 2008 of the findings with regard to the manipulation of BitTorrent traffic. The report was based on the 8,000 people from all around the world who have participated thus far, of which 70 'brave souls' were from Singapore.

The results were nothing surprising with 9 ISPs from USA practising blocking behaviour of BitTorrent traffic. However, what is very surprising is that our dear Starhub is the biggest culprit outside of the US who blocks BitTorrent traffic. Out of the 70 users from Singapore who participated in the test, 45 were using a Starhub connection with 26 of them being blocked. The rest of the Singapore-based users' traffic provided by 5 other ISPs was not blocked.

Overall, in comparison to the whole world, Comcast of USA was found to have blocked 491 out of 788 connections (62.3%), Cox of the USA was found to have blocked 82 out of 151 connections (54.3%) and Starhub was found to have blocked 26 out of 45 connections (57.8%). That means Starhub is quite possibly the second or third 'worst' ISP in the world to use as far as BitTorrent file transfer is concerned.

image source: P2Pnet
(reproduced from original source)

Essentially, these findings do fit nicely with anecdotal evidence from various Starhub users who often complain that their BitTorrent downloads are not as fast as when compared to users of other ISPs who are downloading the same file at the same time.

What surprises me though is that the local media do not seem to have picked up on this in the last week with no reports to be found on the local scene. Inversely, the results have been reported and/or discussed in renowned international media outlets such as The New York Times and The Inquirer. I think this is a relatively important issue (some have called this a scandal, in fact) that should be discussed openly with some (if not a full) explanation provided. If Starhub is indeed blocking BitTorrent activity, then what other interferences could there be in our online experience, I wonder.

Granted I could just pose this question to Starhub directly, but as any Starhub customer will tell you - the prices may be comparatively cheaper as far as their services go but when you pay relative peanuts, you get relative monkeys - their customer service is absolute rubbish most of the time.

Hence, I would rather post here for all to see and think for themselves whilst waiting for the momentum to (hopefully) build up before Starhub finally answers publicly. Well, isn't that how our corporations like to handle things anyway - right after the shit hits the fan?

Footnote: Temasek Holdings has a 56.97% 'deemed interest' in Starhub.

FA Cup Final

I just watched the second half of the English FA Cup Final between Cardiff City and Portsmouth and couldn't help but think Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal or Liverpool could have easily demolished either finalist based on today's performance. A painfully soft goal to win a Final, the game sometimes seemed like a 'reserves final' (Glenn Johnson - ex-Chelsea and Sylvain Distin - ex-Man City) or even a Veteran's category (Hasselbaink, Kanu, Campbell, Fowler) final.

I watched the game as a neutral observer until I realised David James was in goal for Portsmouth - after which I instantly became a Cardiff supporter for the night. The underdogs seemed overwhelmed by the significance of the game but I believe they could have snatched it if not for the silly goal and/or they had believed in themselves a bit more.

However, one player that clearly caught my eye was this guy whom I thought was a semi-retired veteran (due to his grey hair) - Kevin McNaughton. A Scottish player, he was cool & smooth in his play, and his first touch is quite incredible. Not to mention, his defensive play is astute, wise and decisive. With his gangly frame, his style quite reminded me of the great Ryan Giggs. Of course, it didn't help that this right-back seemed to be struggling with fatigue and a pulled muscle late into the game - which added to the impression that he was an ageing player.

Surprise, surprise, the guy is just 25 going on 26 this year and should be reaching the peak of his career. The reason that I am highlighting McNaughton is because I am confident that he will be snapped up by a Premier League club for next season. You see, over the years, I have been able to correctly 'spot' such talents and I want to use this as a documented example.

In the first soccer match that I ever watched for myself, I was impressed by Mark Hughes as he played for Man United - and scored twice (one with an overhead kick). Years later, I spotted Darren Anderton during an FA Cup game (this was before he joined Tottenham) and felt he would be snapped up. I also felt Louis Saha should have been in the Man United squad a good season before he joined from Fulham.

So let us see what the results of this 'experiment' will be and hopefully, I will not be falling flat on my face - could very well be another Robbie Savage ("...started his playing career as a trainee at Manchester United, but was released..." & "...holding the dubious distinction of being awarded the most yellow cards in his career of any Premiership player in the league's history...").



Update:
Looks like an indication of my 'talent-spotting' might be the fact that the player appeared in the picture published on the ST on Sunday as part of the match report on the FA Cup Final.

The Best Of The Best English?

For all the talk about the proper use of language in communication, I truly find standards have dropped dramatically all over. For example, today, I came across the following report at CNA's website talking about a new Halal certification system. However, if you look at the circled portion below, the word 'actions' should be 'action' because the context of the sentence refers to 'taking action' (definition). One would hardly expect such elementary mistakes from our local journalists but that is the case sadly.

Some of the articles in the press are hardly satisfactory as far as communication of ideas is concerned and the general reporting these days seems 'tired'. I reserve comment as to WHY this is so (I do have my theories) but the description and observation hold true.

Amazingly, some of the glaring mistakes that I have come across include the following notable institutions as well. On Harvard University's website for example, one thesis proposal form has the department name misspelled.


Meanwhile, on a professor's profile page at the University of Glasgow's website, an obvious typo error reflects badly on the image of this 'Covener of the Creative Writing Programme' - although they do have a very good Masters-Doctorate programme in Creative Writing that I am eyeing.


Other than for the CNA report, I have actually emailed the department concerned at Harvard University as well as the professor concerned at the University of Glasgow regarding the respective faux pas. Whilst only a lecturer at the Harvard University's department replied to acknowledge the mistake, both websites continue to carry the errors as of this post.

It is indeed sad that correcting the mistakes that undermine one's specific specialisation carries such little importance in today's world.

The Beginning Of Something...

After much deliberation over several months, I have decided to chronicle my thoughts as they emerge on this blog. I am, as yet, unsure of which direction the entries will take and will simply allow my train of thought to dictate its path.

Essentially, I hope that this blog will serve as a focal point for discussion on various issues; as a point of reference for those who wish to assess my capabilities and repertoire of knowledge; and ideally serve as a platform to reach out to the world - both in virtual space and in reality.

Do let me know if you like or dislike any of the material that I present as it will help me to evaluate what is interesting and what is not. Eventually, I hope that the feedback and responses that I gather from the process of maintaining this blog will aid me to produce even superior material - be it just these blog posts or any of my professional articles that are carried in print publications.

Prof Tom Kosnick of Stanford University recently remarked, "You have a gift as a writer, and a story to tell. Keep writing." - and I intend to do just that...

Thank you for visiting and I do hope you enjoy the read.