Friday, 28 November 2014

UMNO - Angka Sebagai Ukuran?


Kelangsungan perjuangan UMNO
 
Perhimpunan Agung UMNO 2014 yang sedang berlangsung terus membahaskan isu-isu berkaitan agama, bangsa dan Negara. Samada usul yang dibawa adalah usul yang segar, relevan dan berkualiti…hanya perwakilan dan kepimpinan UMNO sahaja yang dapat menilai dengan tepat. Begitu juga usul dari Perhimpunan Agung UMNO tahun lalu, corat-coret sudah menjadi kenangan dan samada tindakan susulan, pembetulan, penambahbaikan, perubahan dan kajian sudah dibuat atau tidak, juga hanya perwakilan berkaitan dan kepimpinan UMNO sahaja yang tahu dengan lebih terperinci.
 
Satu yang menarik perhatian saya kali ini ialah dialog di bawah, dipetik dari MSTAR - PAU 2014 : War Room Nadi Pemuda UMNO
 
"Mulai tahun hadapan kita menggerakkan war room di setiap Pemuda Umno Bahagian. Tahun hadapan juga akan menjadi tahun untuk kita menambah keahlian. Bukan selama ini kita tak buat, tapi tahun hadapan kita ada satu program khusus untuk tambah ahli.
 
Kita juga sahut baik penambahbaikkan yang dibuat oleh pucuk pimpinan iaitu untuk tambah ahli melalui pendaftaran online. Pemuda Umno juga akan menggerakkan pendaftaran pengundi muda dengan lebih banyak dan aktif.”
 
– Datuk Seri Najib Bin Tun Razak, Presiden UMNO.
 
Masih kurangkah ahli UMNO untuk menjamin kelangsungan solidariti? Adakah ahli-ahli yang sedia ada tidak mampu lagi berjuang dalam UMNO? Atau idealisme yang ada sudah tidak relevan untuk survival parti?
 
Kuatkah UMNO?

Photo by UMNO Online
Dengan bilangan keahlian parti yang kini telah melebihi angka 3 juta orang, UMNO tidak seharusnya mengatakan yang parti itu adalah satu parti yang benar-benar kuat. Dari jumlah yang tercatat, sebahagiannya adalah ahli lelap, ahli yang sudah berpaling tadah, ahli yang sudah kecewa, ahli yang memburu kepentingan diri, ahli yang tamakkan kuasa, harta dan pangkat, ahli yang menjadi duri dalam daging, ahli yang tiada apa-apa tujuan (hanya mengikut atau kerana terpaksa) dan yang selebihnya….barulah ahli-ahli yang benar-benar berjuang atas nama parti, berjuang kerana bangsa, agama dan Negara.
 
Peratusan dalam pecahan kelompok yang dinyatakan di atas sukar untuk diangkakan. Agak baik jika kelompok terakhir itu mempunyai angka pecahan yang tinggi sehingga 75%. Dan agak malang jika angka peratusan itu diwakili oleh kelompok terdahulu selain dari kelompok yang akhir. Sekiranya benar, hanya 25% ahli UMNO yang benar-benar setia, berjuang untuk parti, untuk bangsa, untuk agama dan Negara…maka wajarkah UMNO dilabel sebagai sebuah parti yang kuat?
 
Sudah banyak kita lihat, satu kelompok masyarakat atau keluarga yang rata-rata adalah ahli UMNO tetapi mereka tidak mengundi untuk parti. Juga satu kelompok yang lain, tidak langsung peduli tentang parti, tidak menjadi ahli dan tidak terlibat dalam aktiviti parti, tetapi mereka mengundi UMNO atas keyakinan kepada kerajaan sedia ada yang diterajui UMNO.
 
Angka lebih 3 juta keahlian, yang sebahagian besar angka itu datangnya dari Sabah sepatutnya menyedarkan kepimpinan UMNO bahawa kekuatan parti itu terletak kepada rakyat yang masih mahukan pembangunan, yang masih mahukan bantuan kerajaan, yang masih mahukan pembelaan, dan yang amat sayangkan bumi yang dipijak serta langit yang dijunjung. Rakyat di Sabah masih yakin UMNO yang menerajui kerajaan yang ada mampu mempertahankan bangsa mereka, mampu menyelamatkan tanah mereka dan mampu membela generasi mereka yang akan datang.
 
Golongan profesional Bandar, rakyat yang sudah banyak menerima bantuan dan subsidi, golongan yang sudah puas mengaut kekayaan dan pihak yang kecewa kerana keperluan tidak dipenuhi parti dilihat sebagai ancaman besar kepada UMNO. UMNO perlu menangani isu ini secara berbeza agar setiap permasalahan dapat diatasi, difahamai, diperhalusi dengan lebih efisien dan relevan.
 
Kuantiti tidak menjamin kekuatan
 
Kempen besar-besaran dari pucuk pimpinan UMNO terutama kepada kedua-dua sayap parti yang menjadi tunjang masa depan UMNO, Pemuda dan Puteri agar mendekati golongan muda dan belia dilihat sebagai satu usaha untuk menguatkan jentera dan survival parti. Anak-anak muda di seluruh pelusuk tanahair terutama anak-anak Melayu diharapkan agar terus bersama UMNO dalam menerajui tampuk kepimpinan Negara. Anak-anak muda diseru agar menyertai UMNO agar dapat sama-sama berjuang mendaulatkan bangsa, memartabatkan bangsa Melayu dan menjadi perintis kepada kemajuan Negara.
 
Sungguhpun begitu, dalam buruan menambah keahlian…timbul pula satu persoalan. “Andai kata keahlian ramai, tetapi sokongan masih samar. Kesetiaan dan keteguhan jatidiri sebagai ahli UMNO rapuh…adakah UMNO akan terus kuat? Atau lebih tajam lagi, adakah UMNO akan terus relevan?” Persoalan pokok, adakah dengan mempunyai ahli yang ramai, menguasai sebahagian besar majoriti penduduk Negara…belum tentu kesinambungan pemerintahan Negara pada UMNO akan berkekalan atau berterusan. Seringkali kita dengar…”bukan kuantiti yang kita mahu, tetapi kualiti”. Keahlian yang ramai belum tentu menjamin sokongan yang kuat, dan penentu kejayaan pada pilihanraya yang akan datang. Ya! memang tidak dinafikan, dengan keahlian yang ramai, peluang dan ruang untuk terus memartabatkan bangsa, menerajui Negara, kekal relevan dan yang paling penting…kekal berdiri dilihat lebih mudah berbanding tiadanya sokongan keahlian dari dalam.
 
Justeru itu, apa yang paling penting dilaksanakan ialah, memajukan ekonomi orang Melayu, memantapkan ikatan perpaduan orang-orang Melayu, menjadikan Melayu bangsa terbilang, mempertahankan Bahasa Melayu sabagai Bahasa utama dan terus menjunjung Islam sebagai agama rasmi serta turut diamalkan menjadi cabaran yang besar bagi setiap pemimpin UMNO khususnya dan ahli-ahli UMNO yang lain secara amnya.
 
Angka sebagai ukuran?
 
Cabaran dari Presiden agar keahlian UMNO ditambah bukan satu matlamat tunggal semua Ketua-ketua Bahagian dan Ketua-ketua sayap parti di peringkat Bahagian. Seringkali gerak kerja tidak disudahkan dengan sempurna atau dilaksanakan tanpa plan kerja yang baik. Sewaktu saya bersama UMNO di salah satu Bahagian di Selatan tanahair lebih 10 tahun yang lalu, sebagai Setiausaha dalam pergerakan Pemuda, saya melihat beberapa kali pertelingkahan berlaku sesame pemimpin Bahagian dalam menentukan kerangka kerja parti di peringkat Bahagian. Jika pertikaian ini tidak ditangani dengan baik, sudah pasti segala gerak kerja tidak mampu disudahkan bagi memenuhi matlamat.
 
Kepimpinan UMNO di akar umbi perlu faham, sasaran menambah bilangan ahli tidak seharusnya diukur hanya dengan angka semata-mata. Program berterusan dalam membentuk generasi muda (atau Gen Y) ini amat penting dan seharusnya menjadi agenda utama dalam plan jangka pendek dan jangka panjang Cawangan, Bahagian, Negeri dan Pusat. Pada saya, biar angka nya kecil, kurang 10 keahlian baharu tetapi berjaya melahirkan barisan pemimpin masa hadapan yang berkualiti…itu jauh lebih baik dari mampu mendaftarkan 100 ahli baru tetapi hanya berterusan ditinggalkan sebagai ‘Ahli Berdaftar’ sahaja.
 
Jika hanya mendapatkan keahlian baharu sahaja yang menjadi KPI untuk semua pemimpin akar umbi, maka jelas sudah bahawa UMNO hanya ingin menjadi juara ‘Siapa Dulu’ atau ‘Siapa Besar’ kerana mentaliti begitu hanya ada pada mereka yang menganggap bahawa Angka Sebagai Ukuran.
 
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Wednesday, 26 November 2014

Harian Metro - MAHB dampingi pengguna medium sosial

Oleh : Oleh Nurul Huda Kosnon
 
Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) kini dalam perancangan strategik meningkatkan hubungan mesra pelanggan menerusi medium sosial termasuk Twitter.
 
Pengurus Besar Komunikasi Korporat Malaysia Airports Holding Bhd (MAHB), Nik Anis Nik Zakaria, berkata MAHB menerusi laman Twitter misalnya kerap menghantar ucapan selamat kepada penumpang sebagai sebahagian usaha menjadi lebih mesra terhadap mereka.
 
"Misalnya ucapan 'Good evening! Have a safe journey to those travelling tonight'," katanya ketika dihubungi Harian Metro.

Menurutnya, menerusi medium itu juga MAHB dapat menyebarkan maklumat dan menerima maklum balas pelanggan dengan setiap perkhidmatan yang ditawarkan.
 
FotoSATU daripada tweet yang dihantar MAHB.

 
 

 
 
 
"Setiap maklumbalas itu adalah panduan untuk pihak kami memperbaiki perkhidmatan dan memastikan pelanggan menikmati sepenuhnya penerbangan.

"Sesebuah lapangan terbang itu mesti mesra pengguna, selamat untuk penumpang dan mesti mempunyai keselamatan yang baik bagi memastikan keselamatan dan mengelak daripada insiden tidak diingini.
 

"Menerusi laman sosial ini, informasi terkini dapat disebarkan selain dapat berkongsi sebarang maklumbalas daripada mereka," katanya.

Ketika ditanya adakah ucapan selamat yang dihantar kepada pelanggan ada kaitan dengan insiden membabitkan pesawat MH370 dan MH17, Nik Anis memaklumkan ia sekadar ucapan bertujuan mewujudkan hubungan lebih mesra selain pelanggan diharap dapat menikmati penerbangan yang disediakan pihaknya.

- See more at: Harian Metro - MAHB dampingi pengguna medium social

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Monday, 24 November 2014

By The Beach VI - Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa Langkawi

Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa (formerly Pelangi Beach Resort) is the right 5 star hotel in Langkawi if you are looking for luxury on the beach. Guestrooms offer quite a range, but even the standard Garden Terrace room is both breezy and elegant at the same time. Spice Market Restaurant and two onsite lounges take care of dining if you don't want to venture off the grounds. There are also great business facilities onsite and any time you want to visit the beach, Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa is steps away from the sand on southwest Langkawi.
 
Designed in the style of a traditional Malay village, Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa, Langkawi sits along the white sandy beaches of the famous Cenang Beach in Langkawi, Malaysia.
 
The 35-acre beach resort and spa offers a relaxing atmosphere amidst a lush tropical environment. 352 guestrooms and suites are housed in clusters of single- and double-storey wooden chalets built on stilts, and each with spacious verandahs overlooking stunning views of the ocean or the surrounding landscaped gardens.
 
Having just completed an extensive, multi-million dollar refurbishment programme, the 5 star hotel in Langkawi boasts a host of exciting new features starting with plush rooms and suites outfitted with stylish furnishings and modern conveniences.
 
Food and beverage outlets include Spice Market, an all-day dining restaurant; the newly launched Cba, a beachside restaurant and bar; Pelangi Lounge located at the main lobby; and Cascade Pool Bar, a poolside refreshment bar.
 
In addition to a versatile line-up of water sports and outdoor activities, the Malaysian beach resort also offers a new wellness and rejuvenation facility that includes a spacious, state-of-the-art Fitness Centre equipped with the latest range of techno-gym equipment and Precor machines; and the re-branded Pelangi Spa with its signature offerings of holistic, oriental massage therapies in a Zen-inspired setting.
 
The resort continues to be a widely popular destination with MICE organisers because of its distinctively refreshing and inspiring indoor and outdoor venues for meetings and incentive gatherings.
 
The 5 star hotel in Langkawi recently made the 2012 list of the Top 25 Relaxation & Spa Hotels in Malaysia at the TripAdvisor Traveller's Choice Hotel Awards. Its new interior design was given a distinction at the Malaysian Interior Design Awards 2012. Dubbed ‘The Jewel of Langkawi,’ be ushered into a world of ethnic charm and tropical tranquility at this award-winning resort!
 
Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa, Langkawi offers complimentary Wi-Fi throught out the resort.
 
 
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Thursday, 20 November 2014

By The Beach V - Pulai Desaru Beach Resort & Spa Kota Tinggi

A Sanctuary of Peace and Tranquility in the Heart of Desaru
 
Life’s a beach at Pulai Desaru Beach Resort & Spa!
 
Pulai Desaru Beach Resort & Spa lies in the heart of Desaru, Johor, one of the most beautiful unspoiled beaches in the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. With a 22km stretch of uninterrupted beach, Desaru combines the captivating panoramic views of the South China Sea with the lush tropical rainforests, where guests can have a choice of fun and adventure or simply rest and relax.
 
This newly refurbished resort features 200 lavishly-decorated and spacious guestrooms facing the stunning Desaru beach, swimming pool or garden blending contemporary design, comfortable elegance, accented with modern artistic touches, with the grand lobby set against the backdrop of South China Sea that exudes a feeling of tranquillity.
 
With comprehensive social, recreational, dining and sports facilities, Pulai Desaru Beach Resort & Spa is a family unit’s sanctuary designed to cater to the family as a whole.
 
While you are here, be sure to join in on exciting tours and excursions to explore the charming Desaru. Tours and excursions include Kampung Tour, Fruit Farm Tour, River Cruise and Fireflies Tour.
 
Back at the resort, you will look forward to dine at Palm Brasserie Restaurant or explore Japanese cuisine at Teppan! Japanese Restaurant. Not long after, you wind down at the Beach Bar. Lounging atop one of the beach-dining platforms, over cocktails and a delectable snacks, you continue to enjoy the sound of overlapping waves on the shores of Desaru Beach. 
 
Children will be well entertained at the Kid's Club at Pulai Desaru Beach Resort & Spa with an endless array of activities, and well equipped play areas indoors and outdoors. There are supervised activities by the poolside and at the beach to keep the children busy.
 
In need of respite after a long day, return to the resort with a spa treatment in mind. Indulge in The Pulai Spa’s extensive list of treatments for total spa rejuvenation.
 
For every experience here, you are surrounded by natural beauty. And it all begins at Pulai Desaru Beach Resort & Spa, Desaru.
 
 
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AirAsia - BIG Loyalty Programme

The best things in life are BIG

Loyalty Programme! Be a BIG Shot with AirAsia’s BIG Loyalty Programme - ‘first of its kind’ global loyalty programme where BIG Shots can earn BIG Points with every transaction and redeem it for FREE FLIGHTS from AirAsia!

It gets BIGGER!

  • The BIG Card doubles as a prepaid payment card, allowing you to EARN BIG Points (RM2 = 1 BIG Point) whenever you spend at any VISA accepted merchants worldwide and our exclusive BIG Partners.
  • Once you become a BIG Shot, you can forget about those old catalogue redemption cards! Earn DOUBLE BIG Points when you spend on hotel & travel packages, car rental, groceries and online shopping to redeem FREE FLIGHTS instead!
  • Don’t worry about insufficient BIG Points, simply top up the balance with cash! Start earning those BIG Points and redeem away that FREE FLIGHT to skydive in Australia or shop till you drop in Japan as long as there are seats available on your chosen flights.
  • Anniversary? Birthday? No time to purchase gift? You can redeem BIG Points for your loved ones too! Now isn’t that just super convenient!
What are you waiting for? Be a BIG Shot and start experiencing the BIG picture with AirAsia’s BIG Loyalty Programme!


AirAsia - BIG Loyalty Programme

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Malaysia Airlines - Deals of the Day




































Malaysia Airlines - Deals of the Day

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Wednesday, 19 November 2014

By The Beach IV - Swiss Garden Beach Resort Kuantan

Swiss-Garden Beach Resort Kuantan is nestled on the pristine Balok beach fronting the azure waters of South China Sea in Peninsular Malaysia. Recently refurbished, the resort offers timeless contemporary elegance with a sophisticated blend of luxury. The resort's 304 rooms and suites are equipped with modern amenities and features traditional motifs, a reflection of the country's cultural heritage. The hotel boosts contemporary rooms designs, each room is designed to evoke the inner sense of any one who is all charged up for a perfect gateway.
 
All guestrooms are attached with a private balcony overlooking a panoramic view of the mesmerizing South China Sea or the lush green landscape surrounding the resort. The resort’s accommodation options range from the spacious Deluxe Room or Sea View Room to the larger suites.
 
Your family will appreciate our spacious Family Room that comes with two inter-connecting rooms, designed to accommodate up to four adults. Indulge in our decadent Executive Suite where you can soak in your private Jacuzzi and be pampered with a collection of exclusive amenities and exceptional service.
 
It is difficult to miss with its sweeping driveway leading up to a luxurious lobby. The large swimming pool with spectacular sea views is a welcoming sight for any weary traveller.
 
Experience an exciting culinary journey in the Garden Terrace Coffee House, where we will entice your palate with à la carte and buffet menu selections made up of local and international flavors or a selection of Halal oriental dishes at the Blossom Chinese Restaurant. The sunset view with the beach bar compliments the stay of any visitor. The hotel boosts a fully refurbished lobby, Garden Terrace Coffee House, Swiss Deli at the Blue Chip Lounge and breath taking Sea- view. Snack on scrumptious cakes and pastries at the Swiss Deli with friends over a cup of freshly brewed coffee or sipping specially blended cocktails. The Malibu Pub offers live entertainment and a wide range of cocktails.

http://www.swissgarden.com/hotels/sgrk/

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By The Beach III - De Rhu Beach Resort Kuantan

De Rhu Beach Resort is a beautiful scenic beach front 3-Star International Class Beach Resort, set amidst 6 acres of lush landscapes surroundings, fronting azure clear blue waters of the South China Sea. Located 15km north of Kuantan or only 15 minutes drive from Kuantan Town, the Resort is equipped with 162 tastefully designed rooms which come complete with tea/coffee making facilities, telephone services amongst others.
 

It also have Food & beverage Outlets which is De Rhu Cafe.Pamper yourself at this international class beachfront paradise that offers you heart-winning holidays and the latest in business with pleasure or just unwind with your family and friends.You'll find De Rhu Beach Resort, Kuantan a lushly landscapes haven, created by nature and artistically shaped by man. It offers you one of Malaysia's largest freeform swimming pools, pristine golden sandy beaches, ultra-modern conveniences and the charming hospitality that make you feel pampered and well cared for come experience our golden touches.
 
De Rhu Beach Resort (previously Coral Beach Resort) is the optimal beach getaway whether you desire to blend company with satisfaction or just relax with your friend and family. You’ll locate De Rhu Beach Resort  Consider be a lushly landscaped sanctuary, made by nature and artistically shaped by guy with ultra-modern eas and charming hospitality that make you really feel pampered. At De Rhu Beach Resort  you could relax in the 2 pool with Jacuzzi, or take pleasure in usage of the recreational facilities such as gym & aerobics, tennis courts, indoor badminton & squash courts, computer game facility and neighboring golf course.
 
The De Rhu Beach Resort  additionally supplies water sport activities for you your satisfaction and pleasure. Providing fully furnished rooms with in-room films, the De Rhu Beach Resort  has its own seaside. Visitors could profit from the on-site gym and pool. The De Rhu Beach Hotel has 162 rooms and provides squash courts. Features at the hotel include a sauna, a 24 hour reception and a suit press. Visitors can also make the most of the hotel’s shuttle service and the tour work desk services.
 
All rooms at the De Rhu Beach Resort are air conditioned and supply a TV, herbal tea and coffee making centers and cable / satellite networks. The rooms at the resort are prepared with floor-to-ceiling windows providing scenic pool sights. Likewise offered are a mini bar, a coffee maker and a hair clothes dryer. The hotel’s on-site restaurant is a beneficial option for visitors desiring to dine in.
 
At night, the lobby bar offers an excellent place to unwind and example one of the drinks on offer. Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport (KUA) is under a 40-minute drive from the De Rhu Beach Resort. It takes less compared to 20 minutes to drive to Darulmakmur Stadium.
 
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Tuesday, 18 November 2014

By The Beach II - Batu Burok Beach Resort Kuala Terengganu

Located some 20 minutes from Kuala Terengganu Airport, Batu Burok Beach Resort  is set amidst 1,7 hectares of lush tropical gardens featuring 2 junior Suites, 19 Deluxe,22 Superior and 16 Standard rooms, sea view or pool view, with all conveniences one might expect from a 3 star resort.  The pristine white coral sand beaches – the resort boasts of 3 private beach coves – offer privacy in abundance and exclusive luxurious accommodation in Kuala Terengganu.
For your dining in Kuala Terengganu, the resort has one main restaurant, “Pak Maidin’s Coffee House”, beautifully located on center of a resort with air conditioned and non air conditioned areas, serving international and typical Malaysia cuisine, a la carte and / or buffet style. Room service is also served from this area.

Batu Burok Beach Resort offers fully equipped conference and banquet facilities for up to 100 persons allowing your meeting in Kuala Terengganu a relaxing one. The resort also provides a pool, dart games, swimming pool and children’s pools, with facilities for volleyball and beach soccer.

The Food and Beverage team arranges special evenings and programs on a regular basis to showcase the rich culture and history of the Malaysian and Kuala Terengganu. Being a popular resort for honeymooners, the Resort organizes romantic dinners in either of its gazebo or on the beach. The Resort is becoming more and more popular as a venue for wedding receptions on its large grounds.
 
Batu Buruk Beach Resort. A beach resort known for its natural beauty and quiet luxury. Simplified refinement and unobtrusive efficiency. Unruffled holidays for a special clientele.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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By The Beach I - Primula Beach Hotel Kuala Terengganu

The picturesque and scenic view of the azure blue sea and gorgeous sandy beach with the cool breeze rustling through the swinging coconut tree is the ‘backdrop’ of Primula Beach Hotel.
 
An international class business hotel and established in 1984, this acclaimed hotel is one of the famous landmarks in Kuala Terengganu because of the uniqueness of it’s beach front location that is just a stone’s throw away from the business hub and places of attractions in town.
 
In line with the rich heritage of Terengganu, the design of the 248 rooms is vernacular in nature with cleaner lines and a touch of contemporary feel; each with it’s own attached balcony overlooking the awesome South China Sea. The colour schemes further emphasize the coziness, richness and comfort level of the guest room.
 
The hotel also showcases several restaurants and lounges serving delicious local, western and fusion cuisine. Leading from the lobby the newly renovated Bayu  Restaurant now has a fresh new contemporary style which in itself enhances the rich Terengganu heritage. Besides serving one of the best buffet meals in town, this outlet offers an amazing array of local and continental a la carte and buffet cuisine. While dining, relaxing and enjoying a view of the shimmering blue sea.
 
With 10 function rooms and a large convention hall that can easily be converted to fit in from 5 to 1200 guests, this hotel also has the reputation for hosting many functions ranging from international conventions to seminars and fantastic wedding receptions to launching of branded products. Primula Beach Hotel is also first choice as the royal caterers to the ruling Sultan of Terengganu. Adjacent is the Anjung Bistro. A delightfully informal open concept bistro that offers all-day dining of authentic Asian dishes with a fantastic view of the beach and sea and that’s not all! The Kuala Kopi Lounge with WIFI access, provides an appealing ambience for those who enjoy a special tête-à-tête with friends or would like to unwind and surf the internet over a drink and a light snack. Nowhere can you find local coffee served in so many different ways to suit your different moods!

The Primula Beach Hotel is an ideal location for business meetings, seminars, conferences, conventions and wedding reception. Step into the impressive pillarless Gamelan Convention Hall and you'll know why it has been the choice venue for many prominent conferences and meetings being second to none in Terengganu with a seating capacity of up to 1200. For a smaller occasion, there is a choice of 10 other rooms fitted with audio visual equipment that you may need for your function. Rest assured our team of dedicated experienced conference service staff can make your function a stress-free and efficient affair.
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Primula Beach Hotel proximity to the sea ensures water sports enthusiasts to enjoy jet skiing, water skiing, windsurfing, canoeing and snorkeling. The tranquil surrounding of resort, is ideal for relaxation, picnics, swimming and snorkeling. The less active individuals can sunbathe on the sandy white beach and give thanks for nature’s endless beauty. Besides its scenic beaches, where most guest check in and choose to stay put, Kuala Terengganu in the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia is known for its attractive handicrafts, notably silverware, batik and songket. Embark on an advantage tour to take in the local sights and sounds.
 
With it’s ever efficient management system, Primula Beach Hotel offers an intriguing assimilation of the old world charm and modern technology, thus providing guests with a rare enchantment that promises a truly memorable occasion.
 

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Working in Australia? Migrate?

How to Travel and Work in Australia

Australia is a popular destination for expatriates. Many people enjoy the climate, culture and communities enough to seek temporary or permanent employment in the country. If you want to work in Australia, you will need to find an employment scheme that sponsors your work visa. There are different options available, depending upon your nationality. On your visa application, you will be awarded points based on your qualifications, which will then determine if you get a visa. This process can take anywhere from 3 months to 18 months, so you may want to get a travel visa to visit Australia in the meantime. Find out how to travel and work in Australia.

First...

Visit your country's state department website to find out how to get a passport. You should start the passport process as soon as possible, as some processes can take between 3 and 6 months to receive.

Visit www.immi.gov.au/skilled to view the Australian immigration rules on foreign workers. Go to www.immi.gov.au/translated-info/_pdf/rights-obligations-workers/english.pdf to see what rights immigrant workers are afforded.

Then...

Apply for an ETA visitor visa. This is required for any short-term trip to Australia, and you will be required to prove you have an ETA before getting on a plane to Australia. It is good for up to 3 months.This visa will cost $20. You can apply at www.eta.immi.gov.au. If you currently hold another type of visa, or you are applying after an ETA is expired, you may have to appear in person at an Australian consulate to reapply.

Apply for an eVisitor visa, if you want to visit Australia for travel or business and you are from an applicable European country. This is designed for travel of 3 months or less and you must apply for it outside of Australia.

Now...

Apply for a tourist visa if you want to extend your travel for more than 3 months. You can apply for this visa inside or outside of Australia. It can be granted for up to 12 months of travel.Visit www.ecom.immi.gov.au/visas/app/uu?form=VSS to apply for a tourist visa. Some nationalities are not able to submit an online application. In this case, you will need to visit an Australian consulate.

Apply for a working holiday visa. This visa is only available to people from certain countries who are between the ages of 18 and 30. It is designed to allow you to travel, supplement your income with work and/or study for up to 12 months.People from a specific list of countries, including the UK and many European countries, should apply for a subclass 415 visa to gain short term employment in Australia. With this visa, you can stay and work for up to 12 months, study for up to 4 months and work during this period. Visit www.immi.gov.au/visitors/working-holiday/417/how-to-apply.htm to get applications and learn how to complete them.People from various Asian and South American countries and the United States can apply for a subclass 462 visa. The restrictions on this visa are similar to the subclass 415 visa; however, you can only work with 1 employer for a period of up to 6 months. Visit www.immi.gov.au/visitors/working-holiday/462/usa/how-to-apply.htm to download applications and learn how to apply.

Working in Australia

If you have skills or qualifications that Australia needs, through SkillSelect you can be invited to apply for a skilled visa by the Australian Government, nominated for a skilled visa by a state or territory government, or nominated for a skilled visa by an employer.

SkillSelect

Allows skilled workers and business people interested in migrating to Australia to record their details so they can be considered for a skilled visa through an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Work in Australia – visas and immigration

Provides information on a range of temporary and permanent skilled visas for workers who want to either work temporarily or migrate to Australia.

Australian Skills Recognition Information

Designed to assist skilled workers migrating to or temporarily working in Australia. ASRI helps you find out how to get a skills assessment for your nominated occupation including educational qualifications, skills or experience that you have gained overseas.

Business people – visas and immigration information

Overseas business people can apply for a visa to conduct short business visits, establish or manage a new or existing business, or invest in Australia.

Consolidated Sponsored Occupations List (CSOL)

This list is relevant for applicants for points-based skilled migration who are nominated by a state or territory government agency; the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS), who must have been nominated by an Australian employer to fill a position in an occupation that appears in the CSOL; the Temporary Work (Skilled) visa (subclass 457); or the Training and Research visa (subclass 402).

DoctorConnect

DoctorConnect provides a starting point for both overseas trained doctors (OTDs) who may be considering work in Australia and employers seeking to recruit them.

Employers – sponsored workers

Provides information for Australian employers about sponsoring people with recognised qualifications, skills or experience seeking to work in Australia.

Skilled Occupations List (SOL)

This list is relevant for applicants for independent points-based skilled migration who are not nominated by a state or territory government agency; a Family Sponsored Points Tested visa; or a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) – Graduate Work stream.

Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO)

Visa holders who do not have a label in their passport can confirm their current visa details online. Organisations can use VEVO to check the visa status of visa holders applying for work, study, licenses and access to government services.

Visa holders and migrants – know your workplace rights

Find out what visa holders and migrants need to know before they start working in Australia.

Work and holiday visa

Provides information for young people between 18 and 30 who want to holiday and work in Australia for up to a year. To apply for this visa, you must hold a valid passport from an eligible country.

Working holiday visa

Provides information for young people between 18 and 30 who want to holiday and work in Australia for up to a year. To apply for this visa, you must hold a valid passport from an eligible country.

Your rights and obligations – Immigration facts for workers

Provides an information booklet to assist workers from overseas to know their rights and help reduce the incidence of exploitation.

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Monday, 17 November 2014

MH17 - Romeo November Delta


Tribute to MH17 - Bila Tiba by Ungu. Source : Youtube

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777 (Amsterdam —Kuala-Lumpur) departed from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol at 10:14 UTC (14:14 Moscow Time) and was scheduled to arrive at its destination at 18:10 local time (22:10 UTC/2:10 Moscow time).

Echelon 330, including the 10 kilometers altitude that the crashed Boeing was flying at, was open for international transit flights over the territory of Ukraine. According to the data provided by the airline, contact with the airplane was lost at 14:15 GMT, approximately 50km away from the Russian-Ukrainian border. However, according to internet portal Flightradar24, the airplane stopped transmission of ADS-B over Snezhnoe (the last reported coordinates — 48.0403° northern latitude 38.7728° east longitude (G) (O)) after 13:21:28 UTC (17:21:28 Moscow time, 16:21:28 local time) at an echelon of 33 thousand feet (a bit over 10 kilometers).

Later on, the wreckage of the airplane was found burning on the ground on the territory of Ukraine. The plane crashed in the area of village Hrabove (not far from Torez). No one from the passengers and aircrew members survived.

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Travel magazine has come out with its annual list of most favoured cities in the world by its readers

FLORENCE, Italy has been named the world’s favorite city by readers of CN Traveler magazine, scoring the highest approval rating for its beauty, architecture and food.

In the 2014 edition of the publication's annual Readers’ Choice Awards, Florence edged past rivals like Charleston, South Carolina, and Budapest, Hungary, to achieve a razor-thin victory in the Top 25 Cities in the World index.

In fact, after the United States – which landed the most cities on the list with five spots, Italy was the second most represented country, with Rome and Siena also cracking the ranking to give the country three spots.

Austria and Thailand tied for third place with two cities each.

The results also suggest that travellers are particularly smitten by South-East Asia, which is heavily represented at east Asia’s expense. The only east Asian city to crack the list – and in last place, at that – is Kyoto, Japan.

The remaining four Asian destinations hail from the sun-soaked Southeast Thailand, Laos and Cambodia.

Europe snagged 10 spots, notably with performances from cities in the east, including Budapest, Hungary, Prague in the Czech Republic and Krakow, Poland.

The list is conspicuously absent of British and French cities.

More than a million votes were cast from 77,000 readers around the world.

Here are the Top 25 Cities in the World, according to readers of CN Traveler magazine

1. Florence, Italy

2. Charleston, South Carolina, USA

3. Budapest, Hungary

4. Cape Town, South Africa

5. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

6. Prague, Czech Republic

7. Rome, Italy

8. Siem Reap, Cambodia

9. Barcelona, Spain

10. Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

11. Krakow, Poland

12. Luang Prabang, Laos

13. Bangkok, Thailand

14. Beirut, Lebanon

15. Vienna, Austria

16. Siena, Italy

17. New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

18. Quebec City, Quebec, Canada

19. Sydney, Australia

20. San Francisco, California, USA

21. Chiang Mai, Thailand

22. Salzburg, Austria

23. Chicago, Illinois, USA

24. Bruges, Belgium

25. Kyoto, Japan

– AFP Relaxnews

Sources : The Star
http://www.thestar.com.my/Travel/Malaysia/2014/11/17/CN-Travelers-top-cities-of-2014/

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Sunday, 16 November 2014

Temporary increase in house prices after GST

Any increase in house prices upon implementation of the goods and services tax (GST) in April next year is just temporary, as a number of measures are already in place to curtail the rise.

Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Ahmad Maslan said among the measures are increasing the real property gains tax from 15% to 30%, raising the price of houses from RM500,000 to RM1 million for foreigners, and barring developers from undertaking projects based on the Developer Interest Bearing Scheme.

He told reporters this after officiating the closing of a GST information session and a briefing on current issues at the Masjid Tanah parliamentary constituency here yesterday.

Minister of Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government Datuk Abdul Rahman Dahlan said recently that the price of houses can be expected to rise by 3% based on a study by the Real Estate Housing Developers’ Association of Malaysia, after the GST implementation.

Ahmad, however, said the figure could be just 1% to 2% based on the calculation of the finance ministry and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department. — Bernama

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Leadership - The Dilemmas

The Dilemmas

How do we as individuals and organizations survive and thrive amid tremendous change? Why are efforts to improve falling so short in real results despite the millions of dollars in time, capital and human effort being spent on them? How do we unleash the creativity, talent and energy within ourselves and others in the midst of pressure? Is it realistic to believe that balance among personal, family and professional life is possible?

Understanding

The key to dealing with the challenges that face us today is the recognition of a principle-centered core within bot ourselves and our organization. Sounds critical and complicated huh!! Remember...leading not just to a new understanding of how to increase quality and productivity, but also to a new appreciation of the importance of building personal and professional relationships in order to enjoy a more balanced, more rewarding and more effective life.

"Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime." - Chinese proverb  

Thought Of The Day

He that can heroically endure adversity will bear prosperity with equal greatness of soul; for the mind that - Henry Fielding

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